Hyundai Exter EX(O) vs SX Review: Both Are Under ₹10 Lakh, The Hyundai Exter EX (O) 1.2 MT price is Rs. 6.56 Lakh and Hyundai Exter SX 1.2 MT Hy-CNG Duo price is Rs. 9.33 Lakh. The Hyundai Exter is a micro-SUV that blends hatchback affordability with SUV styling, making it a popular choice for urban commuters and small families.
Available in multiple variants, the EX(O) and SX are two options catering to different budgets and preferences. This Hyundai Exter EX(O) vs SX Review compares their design, features, performance, and pricing to help buyers decide which variant offers better value. The EX(O) is the optional base variant, while the SX is a mid-tier trim with additional premium features.
Hyundai Exter EX(O): Features and Specifications
The Hyundai Exter EX(O) is the optional base variant, offering essential features at an affordable price. Its exterior features a white color scheme with black matte door handles and ORVMs, halogen headlights, and plastic DRL-like elements that house indicators.
It rides on 14-inch steel wheels with 165/70 R14 tires, equipped with rugged cladding to resist scratches. The rear includes H-shaped LED tail lights, a brake light, reverse light, reflectors, and a high-mount stop lamp, but lacks a rear wiper, defogger, or reverse camera. Two parking sensors are provided, and six airbags come standard for safety.
EX(O) Interior and Features
The interior is all-black with rugged plastic finishes and fabric seats. It includes a digital instrument cluster displaying speed, fuel, and trip information, but lacks steering adjustment. Manual rear windows, a basic AC with fan speed control, and a 5-speed manual gearbox are standard. Other features include height-adjustable driver’s seat, traction control, hill-start assist, and a small glove box. However, it misses a music system, speakers, and keyless entry, requiring manual operation for most functions. The boot offers 391 liters of space, with a full-size spare wheel and basic accessories.
EX(O) Performance
The EX(O) is powered by a 1.2-liter, 4-cylinder petrol engine producing 81.8 bhp and 113.8 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. It delivers a smooth driving experience with a claimed mileage of 19.4 kmpl, though real-world figures range from 17.77 to 22.2 kmpl. The engine is refined for city commuting, with sufficient power for daily use.
Hyundai Exter SX: Features and Specifications
The Hyundai Exter SX, a mid-tier variant, elevates the experience with premium features. Its exterior includes proper LED DRLs, projector headlights, and 15-inch steel wheels with covers (mimicking alloys) fitted with 175/65 R15 tires. Body-colored door handles and ORVMs, electrically adjustable and foldable, enhance aesthetics. The rear features a reverse camera, LED tail lights, and a spoiler, but no wiper or defogger. Six airbags remain standard, and the SX adds a rear parking camera for improved safety.
SX Interior and Features
The SX interior combines grey and black tones with a leather-fabric seat combination. It offers a voice-enabled electric sunroof, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and four power windows. The steering includes controls for the infotainment and cluster, though tilt adjustment is available only from the SX Smart variant. Additional features include a JBL audio system, manual IRVM adjustment, and a digital cluster with enhanced functionality. The SX also provides rear AC vents, a cooled glove box, and a more premium gear knob, enhancing comfort and convenience.
SX Performance
The SX shares the same 1.2-liter petrol engine as the EX(O), producing 81.8 bhp and 113.8 Nm, available with a 5-speed manual or AMT gearbox. The AMT option offers paddle shifters for a sportier feel, with minimal jerks in stop-and-go traffic. Mileage remains similar, around 19.4 kmpl (claimed), making it suitable for urban and highway driving. The SX’s suspension is tuned for Indian roads, absorbing bumps well for a composed ride.
Comparison: EX(O) vs SX
Design and Exterior
The EX(O) has a basic design with halogen headlights, steel wheels, and minimalistic styling, suitable for budget-conscious buyers. The SX, however, offers a premium look with LED DRLs, projector headlights, and body-colored elements, making it visually appealing. The addition of a rear camera and larger tires in the SX enhances functionality and aesthetics.
Interior and Comfort
The EX(O)’s interior is functional but sparse, lacking a music system, rear power windows, and premium finishes. The SX provides a sunroof, touchscreen infotainment, and rear AC vents, significantly improving comfort and appeal. The leather-fabric seats and grey-black interior add a touch of sophistication, making the SX feel more upmarket.
Features and Technology
The EX(O) offers basic features like a digital cluster and six airbags but misses out on modern tech like infotainment or keyless entry. The SX includes SmartXonnect technology, voice commands, and a JBL audio system, catering to tech-savvy buyers. The AMT option and paddle shifters in the SX add driving flexibility.
Price
The EX(O) is priced at ₹6.48 lakh (ex-showroom), with an on-road price of approximately ₹7.35 lakh. The SX costs around ₹8.31 lakh (ex-showroom), with an on-road price nearing ₹9 lakh. The price difference reflects the SX’s additional features, making it a better value for those seeking premium amenities.
Pros and Cons of Hyundai Exter EX(O) and SX
| Variant | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| EX(O) | Affordable at ₹6.48 lakh (ex-showroom). | No music system or speakers. |
| Six airbags standard for safety. | Halogen headlights, no LED DRLs. | |
| Decent 391-liter boot space. | Manual rear windows, no keyless entry. | |
| Smooth 1.2L engine for city use. | No rear camera or wiper. | |
| Height-adjustable driver’s seat. | Basic interior with hard plastics. | |
| SX | Premium features like sunroof and touchscreen. | Higher on-road price (~₹9 lakh). |
| LED DRLs and projector headlights. | No rear wiper or defogger. | |
| Rear camera and AC vents for convenience. | Only two rear parking sensors. | |
| AMT option with paddle shifters. | Steering tilt adjustment from SX Smart. | |
| JBL audio system for enhanced experience. | Slightly less value for budget buyers. |
Hyundai Exter EX(O) vs SX: Which is Better?
This Hyundai Exter EX(O) vs SX Review suggests the SX is the better choice for most buyers due to its premium features like the sunroof, touchscreen infotainment, and rear camera, which significantly enhance comfort and convenience. The EX(O) is ideal for budget-conscious buyers prioritizing affordability and safety, with six airbags and a reliable engine. However, the SX’s additional ₹2.5 lakh (on-road) brings a more modern and feature-rich experience, making it worth the extra cost for those who can stretch their budget. Test-driving both variants is recommended to assess personal preferences.
Conclusion
The Hyundai Exter EX(O) and SX cater to different buyer needs in the micro-SUV segment. The EX(O) offers affordability and essential features, while the SX delivers a premium experience with advanced tech and styling. This Hyundai Exter EX(O) vs SX Review highlights the SX as the value-for-money option for its sunroof, infotainment, and enhanced aesthetics, competing strongly with rivals like the Tata Punch and Maruti Suzuki Fronx. Buyers should weigh their budget and feature priorities before deciding.