Old EXTER Vs New EXTER 2026 Detailed Comparison

The Hyundai EXTER is a compact SUV designed for everyday urban use. With the 2026 version introduced, users want to understand what has changed and how it affects daily driving. This comparison outlines factual differences between the earlier and updated versions, covering design, features, safety, and performance, while highlighting enhancements that improve convenience, connectivity, and usability in city conditions.

Design and Exterior Consistency

The overall design remains consistent across both versions, maintaining Hyundai’s established styling approach with a focus on balanced proportions and urban usability. The EXTER retains an upright stance that supports visibility, practicality, and ease of handling in city conditions.

• Parametric Grille: Distinct front grille design that defines the SUV’s visual identity.
  
• Projector Headlamps: Headlamps with signature LED DRLs for improved visibility and styling.
  
• Body Protection: Skid plates and body cladding for a rugged and practical look.
  
• Roof Rails: Functional roof rails that enhance utility and SUV character.

These elements maintain a consistent visual identity across variants, while unchanged dimensions support easy manoeuvrability and stable road presence in urban environments.

Cabin Layout and Interior Experience

The cabin layout is designed to prioritise accessibility, ease of use, and a driver-focused structure, ensuring controls and information remain simple to access during everyday use. Both versions maintain a consistent interior approach for familiarity and comfort.

• Driver-Focused Dashboard: Dashboard layout designed to keep key information within clear view.
  
• Control Placement: Switches and controls positioned for easy reach and simple operation.
  
• Seating Layout: Seating configuration designed to comfortably accommodate five occupants.

This layout remains consistent across versions, while updated features in newer models enhance convenience and overall usability during daily driving.

Feature and Technology Updates

The updated version builds on the earlier setup by improving functionality through enhanced connectivity and better integration of in-car features. While the core infotainment system remains consistent, the newer version introduces upgrades that improve interaction and ease of access.

• Wireless Smartphone Connectivity: Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for cable-free usage.
  
• Connected Features: Bluelink connectivity with voice command support for improved control and access.
  
• Dual Dashcam System: The dual dashcam setup replaces the earlier single in-car configuration.

These updates show the evolution of the EXTER specification, focusing on improved connectivity, convenience, and a more seamless in-car experience.

Comfort and Convenience Enhancements in the 2026 Model

The updated EXTER introduces additional features that improve comfort and convenience without changing the overall cabin structure. These updates are designed to enhance everyday usability and improve the in-cabin experience.

• Electric Sunroof: Adds openness and improves cabin ambience.
• Rear AC Vents: Support consistent airflow for rear occupants.
  
• Wireless Charger: Enables convenient charging without cables.
  
• Type-C Ports: Faster and more compatible charging options for devices.
  
• Footwell Lighting: Improves visibility and adds a refined cabin feel.

These additions enhance daily usability and make the cabin more comfortable, especially in urban driving conditions where convenience and ease of use are important.

Safety Features Comparison

Safety systems remain consistent across both versions, ensuring stable protection and support for everyday driving conditions. These features are designed to work together to improve control, reduce risk, and enhance overall awareness.

• Airbag Protection: 6 airbags available across variants for occupant safety.
  
• Controlled Braking: ABS with EBD supports balanced and effective braking.
  
• Stability Control: Electronic Stability Control (ESC) helps maintain vehicle stability.
  
• Hill Assist: Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) prevents rollback on inclines.
  
• Vehicle Stability: Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) supports directional control.
• Parking Assistance: Rear parking camera assists during reversing and parking.
• Tyre Monitoring: Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) provides real-time alerts.
• Child Safety: ISOFIX anchors ensure secure child seat installation.
• Lighting Support: Headlamp escort function improves visibility after parking.

These systems remain unchanged in the updated version, ensuring consistent safety support across the city and varied road conditions.

Performance and Powertrain Consistency

The performance setup remains unchanged across both versions, offering a consistent powertrain configuration designed for smooth everyday drivability. This ensures stable and predictable performance across varied driving conditions.

• Engine Type: 1.2L Kappa petrol engine for balanced city and highway use.
  
• Power Output: 61 kW (83 PS) maximum power for efficient performance.
  
• Torque Delivery: 113.8 Nm peak torque for responsive acceleration.
  
• Manual Transmission: 5-speed manual gearbox option for controlled driving.
  
• AMT Option: Smart Auto AMT transmission for added convenience in traffic conditions.
  
• CNG Option: Factory-fitted dual-cylinder CNG option for fuel flexibility.

These specifications remain consistent in the EXTER specification, ensuring similar driving behaviour and reliability across both versions.

Urban Practicality and Usage

The EXTER continues to be designed for urban environments, focusing on ease of handling, practicality, and consistent everyday usability. Its dimensions and overall structure remain unchanged, supporting smooth movement in city driving conditions.

• Compact Size: Supports easy manoeuvring through traffic and tight spaces.
  
• Balanced Wheelbase: Ensures stable and controlled movement during daily use.
  
• Adequate Ground Clearance: Helps manage uneven road surfaces and speed breakers.

This approach ensures that the updated version continues to meet everyday urban mobility needs without any change to its core structure.

What Has Changed in the 2026 EXTER

The updates in the 2026 version focus on feature enhancements rather than changes to structure or mechanical setup. The core design, performance, and safety systems remain consistent across both versions.

Conclusion

The new Hyundai EXTER builds on the earlier version by adding features that improve connectivity and convenience while maintaining consistency in design, safety, and performance. The 2026 version focuses on refining the existing structure rather than making major changes, supporting everyday urban use while offering improved functionality for users seeking a well-equipped compact SUV.