Written by: BikeCarHub Editorial Team

Published on: 27th June 2025

Introduction

Both the Tata Punch and Hyundai Exter have captured attention in India’s micro-SUV segment. These compact crossovers appeal to urban buyers seeking a commanding stance, SUV-like features, and efficient commuting. But how do they truly compare across performance, safety, comfort, tech, and value? Here's a comprehensive breakdown, based on official 2025 specs.

Positioning & Pricing

Tata Punch 2025

• Officially priced starting around ₹5.99 L for the base petrol model
• Offers petrol and emerging EV versions, placing it as a premium hatchback alternative

Hyundai Exter 2025

• Price range: ₹6.20 L to ₹12.33 L ex-showroom across petrol, AMT, and CNG trims
• Positioned for young buyers who want SUV flair with modern convenience

Powertrain & Performance

Tata Punch

• 1.2 L Revotron (3-cylinder) petrol: ~86 PS / 114 Nm
• 5MT / optional AMT
• CNG and EV variants available, but core comparisons focus on petrol

Hyundai Exter

• 1.2 L Kappa II petrol: 82 PS / 114 Nm
• 5MT or 5-speed AMT
• Bi-fuel CNG variant with 68 PS / 95 Nm (CNG)

Fuel Economy (ARAI)

• Punch petrol: Not officially published; expected ~18 kmpl
• Punch CNG/EV: N/A for 2025 petrol model
• Exter petrol: 19.2 kmpl, AMT ~19.2 kmpl
• Exter CNG: 27.1 km/kg

Dimensions & Practical Usability

Verdict: The Exter offers marginally more cabin and boot space. Both seat five comfortably but Punch feels roomier up front, while Exter leads cargo volume.

Safety & Crash Ratings

Tata Punch

• Features: Dual front airbags, ABS + EBD, ISOFIX, rear camera/sensors, TPMS, hill hold assist
• 5-Star Global NCAP (adult occupant), 5-Star Bharat NCAP (EV)

Hyundai Exter

• Features: 6 airbags, ABS + EBD, ESC, VSM, HAC, TPMS, ISOFIX, rear camera, dashcam with dual cameras standard from SX Tech
• Aims for 5-star Bharat NCAP compliance

Verdict: While both shine in safety, Punch's crash-tested results (5★ GNCAP) give it proven credibility. Exter offers advanced active safety tech like dashcams and stability control across trims, exceeding norms.

Features & Technology

Punch

• Decent mid-trim tech: 7″ touchscreen, Android Auto, rear AC vents, rear camera
• Top trims: Improved ergonomics, rear camera and premium upholstery

Exter

• 8″ touchscreen (optional 8″ wireless + wireless CarPlay/Android Auto)
• Digital display, dual-camera dashcam, voice-enabled sunroof (SX and above), auto-AC, cruise control, cooled glove box, BlueLink connectivity with 60+ features

Human-Touch Perspective: Exter feels tech-forward and aspirational, especially with its dashcam and voice sunroof. Punch, while simpler, focuses on safety and practical comfort.

Ride, Handling & Real-World Feedback

Punch

• Composed ride thanks to solid chassis; higher ground clearance is an asset
• Drivers praise cabin space but mention gearbox jerkiness in some AMT units. Some report service and quality-control issues

Exter

• Light steering, smooth AMT, good suspension compliance for city roads
• Owners appreciate dashcam and sunroof but note rear bench is cozy for three adults

Trim & Price Variants

Punch

• Petrol-only trims: Active, Creative, Kaziranga variants around ₹6-9 L
• EV & CNG variants: Priced above ₹10 L, outside this comparison

Exter

• Extensive range: EX (₹7.7-7.9 L), S AMT (₹8.5-9.5 L), CNG options

Value Comparison: Punch emphasizes raw safety and space in straightforward trims. Exter packs more tech per rupee, especially its top-level wireless touchscreen, dashcam, sunroof, and BlueLink.

Ownership & After-Sales

Punch

• Tata's broad network is a service plus, but some owners report QC and service inconsistencies

Exter

• Hyundai offers perks through Hyundai Care App, 5-year warranties, flexible subscriptions, and roadside assistance

Buyer Recommendations & Use Cases

Choosing the Tata Punch:

• You prioritize proven crash safety (5★ ratings)
• You want a taller, SUV-like stance and spacious cabin
• You prefer straightforward variants with strong value and traditional reliability

Choosing the Hyundai Exter:

• You seek tech-rich features—sunroof, wireless charging, dashcam
• You appreciate connected car services with BlueLink
• You want more powertrain options (CNG, AMT) and modern convenience à la carte

Final Words: Who Wins?

Both are excellent micro-SUVs but cater to different priorities:

• Buy Punch if crash safety, space, and simplicity matter most
• Choose Exter if you want tech, connectivity, and a modern package

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