Hyundai Exter vs Tata Punch: Performance, Features and Price

Hyundai Exter and Tata Punch are compact SUVs and are suitable to drive in the city as well as to go for long drives with the family. Both have petrol and CNG variants, automatic transmission options and state-of-the-art features. But the Tata Punch also gets a turbo-petrol engine, while the Hyundai Exter is all about everyday practicality and convenience. Let's see how they stack up in terms of performance, functionality and cost.

Performance

The Hyundai Exter is powered by a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine that produces around 84 PS of power and 114 Nm of torque. It comes in 5 speed manual transmission and 5 speed automatic manual transmission (AMT). The CNG version produced by the factory will have an engine output of about 70PS and 95Nm, and will feature a manual gearbox.

The Exter's engine is ideal for city driving, with the added convenience of the AMT option for stop-and-go conditions. CNG can also provide potential cost savings on fuel costs for buyers depending on the local fuel prices and driving conditions.

The Tata Punch will be powered by the 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine which develops in the range of 89 PS and 115 Nm. A five-speed manual and five-speed automatic transmission are available. Its CNG variant makes about 74 PS and 103 Nm.

The Punch has a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine that produces approximately 122 PS and 170 Nm of torque as opposed to the Exter. It's also paired with a six-speed manual transmission, which makes it a more powerful choice for those looking for faster acceleration.

In all, both SUVs give petrol and CNG choices with the Punch having an edge for buyers looking for more performance with the turbo-petrol engine.

Features: Safety and Comfort

The Hyundai Exter features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, digital instrument display, automatic climate control and rear AC vents (optional). Higher trims come with features like a sunroof, wireless phone charging and a built-in dashcam. Its CNG version also features a dual-cylinder design, which maintains the available luggage space.

The Tata Punch comes with a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a 7-inch digital instrument cluster on certain trims. Other available features include wireless smartphone connectivity, automatic climate control, a sunroof, wireless charging and an air purifier. Other conveniences and the 360 degree camera are also included in higher variants.

The SUVs are equipped with six airbags, ABS with EBD and electronic stability control and hill hold assist. The Exter comes with a dashcam on certain models, and the Punch's 360 camera is available on the higher trims. The Tata Punch has also been given a five-star rating by Bharat NCAP for safety.

Not all features are available on every variant; therefore, customers need to check the availability of the features on the trims they are considering.

Price

The Hyundai Exter is available as a car in the range of ₹5.80 lakh to ₹9.50 lakh ex-showroom. Whether going petrol or CNG, it would be suitable for those who want to buy a compact SUV at a relatively affordable price.

Tata Punch's ex-showroom price ranges from ₹5.75 lakh to ₹10.77 lakh, depending on the type of engine, transmission and variant. It comes in naturally aspirated petrol, turbo-petrol and CNG variants.

Bookings may be subject to change, so please refer to the latest manufacturer price list.

Want to know the features of Exter? Click here

Conclusion

Both the Hyundai Exter and Tata Punch come with practical amenities, several options of fuel types, and most essential safety features. The Exter would be a reasonable choice for the every day city commuter looking for a small CNG and/or dashcam-equipped SUV.

The Tata Punch has a wider engine choice, including a higher performance turbo-petrol engine, a bigger infotainment display in some models and a 5-star Bharat NCAP safety score. The final decision will be based on the buyer's budget, the performance needed, the features and driving requirements they seek.