Hyundai has just made its CNG lineup even more accessible with the launch of the Exter EX Hy-CNG Duo. It is priced at ₹7.51 lakh (ex-showroom). This new entry-level variant of the Exter CNG range brings the same dual-cylinder CNG technology found on higher trims, but at a significantly more affordable price point. With this move, Hyundai is clearly aiming to expand its reach in the budget-conscious yet feature-seeking CNG buyer segment.

Until now, Hyundai’s Hy-CNG Duo lineup for the Exter was limited to the S, SX, and SX Knight trims, with prices starting from ₹8.5 lakh. By offering the dual-cylinder setup in the EX trim, Hyundai has lowered the entry barrier by nearly ₹1 lakh. This is a considerable price difference that opens the door for many first-time buyers and those looking for a practical daily driver with green credentials.

What Does the Exter EX Hy-CNG Duo Offer?

The Exter EX Hy-CNG Duo is powered by a 1.2-litre, 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated Bi-fuel engine. On CNG, it delivers 68 bhp of peak power, 95.2 Nm of peak torque, and claims the fuel efficiency of 27.1 km/kg.

Despite being a base variant, the Exter EX Hy-CNG Duo does not cut corners when it comes to safety and essential features. It offers:

• 6 airbags as standard
• 3-point seatbelts for all passengers
• Seatbelt reminders, even for rear occupants
• A 4.2-inch colour MID in the instrument cluster
• Keyless entry, driver seat height adjustment, and body-coloured bumpers
• H-shaped LED tail lights, giving it a distinct rear look

These features place it ahead of its key rival, the Tata Punch i-CNG, especially in terms of safety. While the Punch Pure CNG is priced slightly lower (around ₹30,000 cheaper), it misses out on several features that the Exter offers even in its base CNG trim.

Hyundai’s dual-cylinder setup, first introduced in 2024, uses two smaller CNG tanks placed under the boot floor. This allows for better space utilization, unlike single large tanks that eat into usable boot space. It is a practical solution, especially in a compact urban SUV like the Exter, where every litre of luggage space matters.

Launching the dual-cylinder CNG tech to the base EX variant is a well-thought-out move by Hyundai. It strengthens the brand’s presence in the entry-level CNG SUV space and also gives buyers a strong alternative to the Tata Punch CNG. More importantly, Hyundai is setting a new benchmark for features and safety in budget-friendly CNG cars.