The Exter facelift continues with the proven 1.2-litre naturally aspirated Kappa petrol engine, a four-cylinder unit that stands out as the only one in its segment for refined and smooth performance. It delivers 82 hp of power at 6000 rpm and 113.8 Nm of torque at 4000 rpm. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automated manual transmission (AMT).

The factory-fitted CNG variant uses a bi-fuel setup with the same engine producing 68 hp and 95.2 Nm in CNG mode, paired with a manual gearbox.

The Exter facelift retains the same ARAI-certified fuel economy figures as the pre-facelift model, as there are no changes to the engine or powertrain specifications. For petrol variants, the manual transmission returns an ARAI-claimed mileage of 19.4 kmpl, while the automatic (AMT) transmission is rated at 19.2 kmpl.

Meanwhile, the factory-fitted CNG variant, equipped with a manual gearbox, delivers an ARAI-certified efficiency of 27.1 km/kg.

The Exter facelift retains its practical, tall-boy layout and generous headroom while upgrading to a premium dual-tone Navy Blue and Grey theme with improved upholstery. Matching these aesthetic updates, overall comfort and ergonomics see a boost with a height-adjustable driver’s seat, a folding front armrest, and standard adjustable rear headrests across all variants.

For the driver, a new flat-bottom steering wheel and segment-first metal pedals add a sporty touch, framing an updated dashboard that features a semi-digital instrument cluster and an integrated dashcam. This modernized setup incorporates key tech upgrades, including wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (via an adapter) alongside an expanded Bluelink suite offering over 60 connected features, OTA updates, and 300+ offline voice commands.

Alongside the updated technology, everyday usability is maintained with thoughtful storage, a rear USB Type-C port, an electric sunroof, and a 391-litre boot.

The Exter facelift retains its boxy proportions and a 185mm ground clearance while introducing sharper, streamlined styling. Up front, it features a reworked gloss-black grille and revised bumpers with silver skid plates. The familiar split-headlamps and H-shaped LED DRLs remain, though the black connecting strip now sports updated 'EXTER' lettering.

Along the sides, the muscular wheel-arch cladding and tall greenhouse are unchanged but now sit on new 15-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels. Golden Bronze and Titanium Black Matte join the color lineup, alongside the continuing Ranger Khaki dual-tone option.

At the rear, updates include a revised tailgate, a new two-part wing spoiler, and a reworked bumper with a faux diffuser and vertical reflectors. Subtly redesigned detailing on the strip connecting the LED taillights completes the modernized exterior.

Safety in the new Exter facelift receives significant emphasis. In total, the model offers more than 45 advanced safety features, with 30 provided as standard, ensuring better occupant protection in everyday scenarios like sudden braking, lane changes, or collisions.

To anchor this standard equipment, Hyundai has made six airbags standard across all variants, covering the driver, co-driver, and side/curtain for rear occupants. Alongside the airbag setup, core safety features include Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill Start Assist Control (HAC), ABS with EBD, a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), rear parking sensors and camera, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and a burglar alarm.

Further adding an extra layer of security is the segment-first dual-camera dashcam. By recording front and rear views, it provides practical utility for insurance claims or monitoring in traffic-heavy Indian cities.

Regarding crash test ratings, previous Exter models achieved a 5-star Global NCAP rating for both adult and child protection, and the facelift is expected to deliver similar safety performance.

The Exter facelift has three closest rivals in its class, namely the Tata Punch, the Maruti Suzuki Fronx, and the Nissan Magnite, which overlap significantly in their target buyers and urban-focused practicality.

As the Exter’s most direct competitor, the Tata Punch offers a rugged micro-SUV design, a 5-star Global NCAP rating, and a turbo-petrol engine option. While the Punch highlights its bold styling and strong crash-test credentials, the Exter counters by providing six airbags as standard equipment across its lineup.

The Fronx is positioned as a crossover-oriented alternative, featuring a sleek roofline, a premium cabin aesthetic, and a longer wheelbase designed for increased rear legroom. It also includes a turbo-petrol option, though it comes equipped with fewer standard safety features than the Exter.

Rounding out the competition, the Nissan Magnite stands out with its segment-leading boot space, a turbo-petrol engine paired with a CVT, and technology like a 360-degree camera. While it prioritizes higher engine output figures, it trails the Exter in standard safety inclusions.