Hyundai is launching a new car next month that will help to lower the cost of entry for its roster of SUVs in South Africa.
Known as the Exter, the incoming model will be positioned as the brand’s new entry-level crossover when it arrives this coming September.
Hyundai’s new entry-level SUV
At present, Hyundai’s most affordable SUV is the Venue, but this will change once the Exter enters the picture.
Hyundai recently explained that the decision to introduce the Exter is driven by South Africa’s current economic climate, as households are struggling to afford new vehicles.
It noted that there has been a major shift in purchases with motorists downsizing to smaller cars, as customers who may have once bought an i20 hatchback are now going for the more attainable Grand i10 instead.
The Korean automaker is well aware of the fact that cars are quickly becoming unaffordable for the average salary, and has been making a conscious effort to counteract this problem by reducing the price of three of its most popular models – the Grand i10, the i20, and the Venue.
The Venue in particular had its starting price cut by R19,000, but the crossover still goes for anywhere from R309,900 to R499,900, making it a big purchase for most salaries.
This is where the Exter comes in, which is an A-segment crossover that will compete with names like the Suzuki Ignis, Nissan Magnite, Citroen C3, and Renault Kiger.
As a point of reference, these four models start anywhere from R230,900 to R249,999, which indicates what the Exter may cost when it lands in local showrooms.
The important thing to note about the SUV is that it shares a platform with the Grand i10 hatchback and sedan, and is slightly taller and wider than its siblings on account of its body style.
Hyundai has yet to provide a breakdown of the Exter’s local specifications, but it is likely that it will share the same 1.2-litre, naturally aspirated petrol engine found in the i10.
This powerplant generates 61kW and 114Nm, which is sent down the front wheels via a five-speed manual or automated manual transmission.
Likewise, the automaker has kept mum on the Exter’s features and amenities.
In its home country of India, it comes with a variety of kit including keyless entry, an 8.0-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic aircon, a wireless charging pad, and a leather multifunction steering wheel.
These being rather premium fittings for a wallet-friendly car, it will be interesting to see what the Exter eventually offers in the local market.
More information regarding the new Hyundai Exter, including its local pricing and finalized spec sheet, should be announced closer to its launch window in September.
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