Choosing the right small SUV for Indian roads can be tricky, especially when two strong options like the Hyundai Exter and Tata Punch are fighting for attention. Both are stylish, affordable, and great for city drives, but which one is better when you hit the highway too? Let’s break it down in simple words.
Design and Looks: Which One Turns Heads?
Hyundai Exter brings a futuristic design with sharp LED DRLs and a bold front look. It looks modern and a bit more “techy.”
Tata Punch, on the other hand, looks tough and sporty. It feels more like a mini SUV with strong body lines and high ground clearance.
Verdict: If you like bold and solid design, go with the Punch. If you prefer a modern, clean look, the Exter wins.
Comfort and Interior: Which Is More Enjoyable Inside?
Inside the Exter, you get a digital instrument cluster, 8-inch touchscreen, sunroof, and premium fabric seats. It feels classy and loaded with features.
Tata Punch has a smart dashboard, a 7-inch touchscreen, semi-digital instrument cluster, and good seating comfort but lacks a sunroof.
Verdict: Hyundai Exter gives more premium feel and extra features.
Performance and Drive: City vs Highway
Hyundai Exter has a 1.2L petrol engine (also comes in CNG), giving smooth power for city and highway drives. It’s great for long trips and overtaking.
Tata Punch also has a 1.2L petrol engine but feels a bit slower on highways, especially with full passengers or AC on.
Verdict: For highway use, Exter is more responsive. For daily city use, both work fine.
Safety Features: Who Keeps You Safer?
Tata Punch proudly holds a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating. It has dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and a strong build quality.
Hyundai Exter also offers six airbags (top variant), ABS, rear camera, and more, but its safety rating is not officially tested yet.
Verdict: Punch wins in tested safety; Exter offers more safety features.
Price Comparison Table
| Car Model | Starting Price (Ex-showroom) | Top Variant Price | CNG Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Exter | ₹6.13 Lakh | ₹10.28 Lakh | Yes |
| Tata Punch | ₹6.13 Lakh | ₹10.20 Lakh | Yes |
Both cars are priced similarly, but Hyundai Exter gives a bit more in features, while Tata Punch feels stronger and safer.
Which One Should You Buy?
- City Use: Both are good, but Punch’s size and handling make parking and traffic driving smooth.
- Highway Use: Hyundai Exter wins with better performance and more comfortable features.
- Overall Value: If you want feature-loaded, go with Exter. If you want solid build and safety, go with Punch.
Both Hyundai Exter and Tata Punch are great options in the mini SUV category. Your choice depends on your lifestyle. Exter is more modern and feature-packed, perfect for long trips and young drivers. Punch feels safer and more durable, ideal for daily city drives and rougher roads. Think about what matters more to you—style and features or strength and safety. Either way, you won’t be disappointed!
