We have Exter entering the highly competitive micro-SUV segment. Although Tata Punch is the primary rival to compete with, there are others such as Nissan Magnite, and Renault Kiger to give competition too. Let’s see how the new candidate sits across its rivals:
Design & Dimensions
Exter features a modern design with better aerodynamics and a cascading grille with H-shaped LED DRLs. It also has projector headlights in a split setup similar to the Punch. Magnite & Kiger on the other hand, share similar modern and sporty elements, but Magnite has appealed more to people as compared to its siblings. As Magnite & Kiger share the same platform and engines, we have listed only Magnite in the tables and figures. Let’s take a look at the dimensions (mm) below:
| Aspect/Car | Punch | Exter | Magnite |
| Length | 3827 | 3815 | 3994 |
| Width | 1742 | 1710 | 1758 |
| Height | 1615 | 1631 | 1572 |
| Wheelbase | 2445 | 2450 | 2500 |
| Ground Clearance | 190 | 160 | 205 |
Also Read: Fronx vs Hyundai Exter: A Comparison of Popular Models!
Magnite takes the win here with the most extensive dimensions in the segment. It even sits significantly higher than its rivals with a ground clearance of 205mm which gives it an edge when it comes to speed breakers, potholes, or bad road conditions. It has the most spacious interior and a slightly better road presence.
Engine & Transmission
All of these micro-SUVs are powered by engines with almost the same displacement and power. It is usually a 1.0-litre or 1.2-litre naturally aspirated engine. Although the siblings Magnite & Kiger both have 3-cylinder engines, unlike the Exter & Punch, They also have a 1.0-litre turbo engine on offer. Let’s take a look at the power figures below:
| Engine/Car | Punch | Exter | Magnite |
| Displacement | 1.2-litre-NA | 1.2-litre-NA | 1.0-litre turbo |
| Power | 86hp & 113Nm torque | 83hp & 114Nm torque | 100hp & 152Nm torque |
| Fuel efficiency | 18.97 kmpl | 19.4 kmpl | 17.7 kmpl |
| Transmission | 5-speed MT or AMT | 5-speed MT or AMT | 5-speed MT or CVT |
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Magnite again takes the win here with the highest power in the segment. It might fall slightly behind in fuel efficiency but makes up for it with power and torque, along with the CVT transmission.
Features & Price
All these cars have a similar price range, but the features offered slightly differ. Exter has some first-in-segment offerings, such as the factory-fitted CNG kit, an in-built dash cam, and an electric sunroof. We have the respective price ranges mentioned below:
| Car | Punch | Exter | Magnite | Kiger |
| Price(ex-showroom) | 26 variants ₹6-9.52 lakhs | 17 variants ₹6-10.10 lakhs | 23 variants across ₹6-11.02 lakhs | 15 variants across ₹6.50-11.23 lakhs |
Tata Punch has a slight advantage with unique safety features such as brake-sway control and a 5-star NCAP rating. Magnite & Kiger also have excellent 4-star Global NCAP ratings, and all of them have essential safety features.
Also Read: 10 Reasons Why Nissan Magnite Should Be Your First SUV
Overall, all these micro-SUVs offer the latest features along with smartphone and even smartwatch connectivity. Every candidate has its own connectivity feature, such as Tata’s iRA, Hyundai’s Blue Link, and Nissan Connect. Out of these four cars, Nissan offers the best value for money.