India’s micro SUV segment is heating up, and two names dominate the conversation—Hyundai Exter and Tata Punch. Both offer compact dimensions, SUV styling, and feature-rich cabins, but which one truly delivers the best value in 2025?
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a city commuter, or a style-conscious driver, this head-to-head comparison will help you decide which micro SUV deserves your garage space.
Design & Styling
Hyundai Exter
- Urban SUV styling with H-shaped LED DRLs
- Parametric grille and projector headlamps
- Dual-tone roof and blacked-out pillars
- Knight Edition adds sporty black accents
Tata Punch
- Boxy, muscular stance with high-set headlamps
- Camo Edition adds rugged green tones
- Wide grille and squared-off wheel arches
- Floating roof design with contrast colors
Verdict: Exter feels more modern and sleek, while Punch leans into rugged SUV aesthetics.
Engine & Performance
| Specification | Hyundai Exter | Tata Punch |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 1.2L Kappa Petrol | 1.2L Revotron Petrol |
| Power Output | 82 bhp @ 6000 rpm | 87 bhp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 113.8 Nm @ 4000 rpm | 115 Nm @ 3250 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed MT / AMT | 5-speed MT / AMT |
| CNG Option | Yes (69 bhp) | Yes (73 bhp) |
Both offer CNG variants with twin-cylinder tech, but Punch delivers slightly more grunt, while Exter feels smoother and more refined.
Verdict: Punch wins on torque; Exter scores on refinement and gearbox smoothness.
Mileage & Efficiency
| Fuel Type | Hyundai Exter Mileage | Tata Punch Mileage |
|---|---|---|
| Petrol (ARAI) | 19.4 kmpl | 18.8 kmpl |
| CNG (ARAI) | 27.1 km/kg | 26.99 km/kg |
Both are neck-and-neck in fuel efficiency, with Exter slightly ahead in petrol and CNG modes.
Verdict: Exter edges ahead in mileage, especially for city commuters.
Interior & Features
Hyundai Exter Highlights
- 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- Digital instrument cluster with TPMS
- Voice-enabled sunroof
- Dashcam with dual recording
- Rear AC vents
- Ambient lighting & connected car tech
Tata Punch Highlights
- 7-inch infotainment system with wired connectivity
- Semi-digital cluster
- Auto headlamps & rain-sensing wipers
- Cruise control
- Flat-bottom steering wheel
- Cooled glovebox
Verdict: Exter wins on tech and connectivity; Punch offers rugged practicality and useful features.
Safety & Build Quality
- 6 airbags standard
- ESC, hill hold, TPMS
- ISOFIX mounts
- ABS with EBD
- Rear camera with guidelines
- 5-star Global NCAP rating
- Dual airbags standard
- ABS with EBD
- Cornering stability control
- ISOFIX mounts
Verdict: Punch wins on crash-tested build; Exter offers more active safety features.
Dimensions & Space
| Dimension | Hyundai Exter | Tata Punch |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 3815 mm | 3827 mm |
| Width | 1710 mm | 1742 mm |
| Height | 1631 mm | 1615 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2450 mm | 2445 mm |
| Boot Space | 391 litres | 366 litres |
| Ground Clearance | 185 mm | 187 mm |
Exter offers more boot space and slightly better cabin width, while Punch has higher ground clearance.
Verdict: Exter wins on practicality; Punch scores on ruggedness.
Price & Variants: Value vs Variety
| Variant Range | Hyundai Exter | Tata Punch |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | ₹6.21 lakh (EX MT) | ₹6.20 lakh (Pure MT) |
| Top Variant Price | ₹10.51 lakh (SX Opt) | ₹10.32 lakh (Creative+) |
| CNG Variant | ₹8.24 lakh onwards | ₹7.99 lakh onwards |
Both offer competitive pricing, with Punch slightly more affordable in top trims.
Verdict: Punch offers better value in higher variants; Exter delivers more features per rupee.
Verdict: Which Micro SUV Should You Choose?
| Category | Winner |
| Design | Tie |
| Engine Performance | Tata Punch |
| Mileage | Hyundai Exter |
| Features | Hyundai Exter |
| Safety | Tata Punch |
| Space & Comfort | Hyundai Exter |
| Price & Value | Tata Punch |
If you want a tech-savvy, feature-loaded micro SUV with refined performance and modern styling, the Hyundai Exter is your best bet.
But if you prefer rugged build quality, proven crash safety, and punchy performance, the Tata Punch delivers exceptional value.
Final Thoughts: The Smart SUV Choice in 2025
Both the Hyundai Exter and Tata Punch are segment leaders, and choosing between them depends on your priorities:
- Choose Exter if you want a connected car, premium cabin, and better mileage
- Choose Punch if you value build quality, torque, and real-world durability
Either way, you’re getting a compact SUV that’s big on personality and performance.
Disclaimer
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