By Both Tata Punch 2026 and Hyundai Exter are strong contenders in the Indian micro SUV segment, but they target slightly different priorities. The Punch has been recently facelifted with new tech and the added turbo-petrol engine option, while the Exter focuses on efficient daily usage with its value rich features.
Here’s a clear side-by-side breakdown to help you decide:
Engine & Performance
| Specification | Tata Punch 2026 | Hyundai Exter |
| Engine Type | 1.2L NA Petrol / 1.2L Turbo Petrol / 1.2L iCNG | 1.2L NA Petrol / 1.2L NA CNG |
| Displacement | 1199 cc | 1197 cc |
| Max Power | 87.8 PS (Petrol) / 120 PS (Turbo) | 83 PS (Petrol) |
| Max Torque | 115 Nm (Petrol) / 170 Nm (Turbo) | 113.8 Nm |
| Transmission | 5MT / 5AMT / 6MT (Turbo) | 5MT / 5AMT |
| CNG Automatic | Yes (AMT) | No (Only Manual) |
| Fuel Types | Petrol, Turbo Petrol, CNG | Petrol, CNG |
Punch advantage: The turbo-petrol engine delivers significantly higher output and torque and is ideal if you want a more engaging drive and better overtaking performance. The availability of CNG with AMT is also of great convenience
Dimensions & Space
| Dimension | Tata Punch 2026 | Hyundai Exter |
| Length | 3,876 mm | 3,815 mm |
| Width | 1,742 mm | 1,710 mm |
| Height | 1,615 mm | 1,631 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,445 mm | 2,450 mm |
| Boot Space | ~366 L (Petrol) | ~391 L |
Punch advantage: Wider and longer body offers a stronger road presence.
Exter advantage: Slightly bigger boot space, which might benefit frequent luggage needs.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Tata Punch 2026 | Hyundai Exter |
| Infotainment | 10.25″ touchscreen | 8″ touchscreen |
| Connected Tech | Tata iRA suite | Hyundai BlueLink |
| Camera | 360° camera + BVM | Dual-camera dashcam |
| Safety Rating | 5-star Bharat NCAP | Not yet rated |
| Airbags | 6 airbags standard | 6 airbags standard |
| Sunroof | Yes (Pure + S) | Yes (lower+) |
| Extras | Auto AC, push start | Auto AC, wireless charging |
Punch advantage: Larger infotainment, more advanced connected tech, and 360° camera with Blind View Monitor on higher trims making it feel more premium.
Price Range
- Tata Punch 2026: ₹5.59 lakh – ₹10.54 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Hyundai Exter: ₹5.64 lakh – ₹9.61 lakh (ex-showroom)
Tata Punch: Slightly wider price range due to turbo engine and CNG AMT options.
Hyundai Exter: Competitive pricing with strong base feature value.
Here’s how to pick between these two micro-SUVs:
City & Budget-Focused
Go for: Hyundai Exter
- Slightly more premium cabin feel
- Good efficiency on petrol & CNG
- Competitive features for everyday use
Feature & Safety-Focused
Go for: Tata Punch 2026
- Bigger touchscreen & connected tech
- Turbo-petrol for more performance and CNG with AMT
- Strong safety build and 5-star Bharat NCAP credentials
Balanced All Round Choice
Choose: Tata Punch Pure + and Adventure variants
- Best blend of practicality, power, and tech
- Offers more versatility than equivalent Exter trims
- Better interior features and more Safety
Summary
Both SUVs bring value to money, but their strengths differ however Tata Punch 2026 edges ahead with powerful engine choices, CNG with AMT option, advanced tech features, and safety credentials.