Hyundai Motor India has launched the updated Exeter compact SUV in the country, with prices starting at Rs 5,79,900 (ex-showroom). The new model brings in over 25 enhancements across design, technology, comfort and safety, making it a more feature-rich and premium offering in the segment. Since its launch, Exeter has crossed 2 lakh customers in India. With this update, Hyundai aims to further strengthen its appeal among young buyers and families looking for a compact yet practical SUV.
Variants and price
The 2026 Exeter is available in multiple variants across petrol MT, petrol AMT and CNG options. Petrol manual variants start at Rs 5,79,900 for the HX 2 and go up to Rs 8,35,900 for the HX 8. The AMT variants range from Rs 6,90,900 to Rs 9,41,900 for the top-spec HX 10 trim. Prices for the CNG variants start at Rs 6,99,900 for the HX 2 and go up to Rs 9,40,900 for the HX 8 (all prices ex-showroom). Bookings for the new Hyundai Exter have now started across dealerships and online platforms.
Design and exterior updates
The exterior styling of the new Exeter has received noticeable updates, enhancing its SUV stance. It features a redesigned front fascia with a new center garnish, updated grille, revised bumpers and new diamond-cut alloy wheels. It also gets a new wing-type spoiler, updated tailgate design and revised C-pillar garnish, giving it a sporty rear profile.
Hyundai has positioned the Exeter as the tallest SUV in its segment, which also offers the longest wheelbase. This helps in providing better headroom and cabin space as well as improved road presence. In terms of dimensions, the Exeter measures 3,830 mm in length, 1,723 mm in width and 1,643 mm in height (with roof rails), with a wheelbase of 2,450 mm.
Interior and cabin experience
Inside, the Exeter gets a more premium cabin with a new dual-tone navy and gray interior theme. It also gets a 3D carbon-pattern dashboard finish and a sporty D-cut steering wheel. Adding a sporty touch, Hyundai has introduced segment-first metal pedals. Other upgrades include a folding driver armrest, new seat upholstery and improved ergonomics.
Comfort has been enhanced with driver seat height adjustment and adjustable rear headrests which are now offered as standard across all variants. The Exeter also continues to offer generous cabin space with a boot capacity of 391 litres.
Technology and Features
On the technology front, the Exeter gets a segment-first dashcam with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Rear passengers now get a Type-C USB charging port. It also offers over 60 BlueLink connected car features and over 300 embedded voice commands that can work even without internet connectivity. Other features include electric sunroof, digital instrument cluster and OTA updates for maps and infotainment.
The 2026 Exeter continues to be powered by the 1.2-litre Kappa petrol engine, offered with both manual and AMT gearbox options. Hyundai said it is the only SUV in the segment to offer a sophisticated 4-cylinder petrol engine. The Exeter is also available with a CNG option with a dual-cylinder setup. This variant now comes with an underbody spare wheel, which frees up boot space and provides approximately 225 liters of usable luggage capacity.
safety and color
Security remains a strong focus for Exeter. It now offers over 45 advanced safety features along with 30 safety features as standard across all variants. Key features include 6 airbags as standard along with Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Hill Start Assist (HAC), ensuring superior safety across the range.
The new Exeter is offered in 7 monotone and 1 dual-tone color options, including two new shades – Golden Bronze and Titanium Black Matte. Other colors include Titan Grey, Atlas White, Starry Night, Titanium Black and Ranger Khaki, as well as Ranger Khaki dual-tone with black roof.
Speaking at the launch of the new Hyundai Exeter, Mr. Tarun Garg, Managing Director & CEOHyundai Motor India Limited said, “Since its launch, Hyundai Xeter has received an overwhelming response, earning the trust of over 2 lakh customers across India. With its bold design and segment defining features, Hyundai Symbolizing a revived spirit of ‘Shine’, these upgrades further strengthen its appeal among families and young explorers looking for a versatile SUV that seamlessly blends style, practicality and everyday utility, the new Hyundai Exeter reaffirms HMIL’s commitment to providing world-class technology, superior safety and a reliable SUV for the young and aspirational India.