The Hyundai Exter, a compact SUV launched in India in 2023, has been making waves in the Indian automotive market for its affordability, features, and fuel efficiency. Recently, a claim surfaced online where a Hyundai Exter owner reported achieving an astonishing 40 kmpl mileage. For car enthusiasts and potential buyers in India, this raises an intriguing question: Is such an exceptional fuel economy figure realistic for the Hyundai Exter? In this blog post, we dive deep into the claim, analyze the factors affecting mileage, and explore whether 40 kmpl is achievable. Buckle up as we break it down with data, insights, and practical tips tailored for Indian car buyers.
Understanding the Hyundai Exter’s Fuel Efficiency
The Hyundai Exter is available in India with three powertrain options: a 1.2L Kappa petrol engine, a 1.2L petrol+CNG bi-fuel option, and a 1.0L turbo-petrol engine. The official ARAI (Automotive Research Association of India) mileage figures for these variants are:
| Variant | Fuel Type | Transmission | ARAI Mileage (kmpl) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.2L Kappa Petrol | Petrol | Manual | 19.4 |
| 1.2L Kappa Petrol | Petrol | AMT | 19.2 |
| 1.2L Petrol+CNG | CNG | Manual | 27.1 (CNG mode) |
| 1.0L Turbo-Petrol | Petrol | Manual | 18.2 |
Source: Hyundai India Official Website and ARAI certifications (as of 2025).
ARAI mileage tests are conducted under controlled conditions, which often yield higher figures than real-world driving. The claim of 40 kmpl is significantly higher than even the CNG variant’s ARAI figure of 27.1 kmpl, prompting skepticism. Let’s analyze whether such mileage is feasible.
Is 40 KMPL Mileage Possible for the Hyundai Exter?
To determine if 40 kmpl is achievable, we need to consider the factors that influence fuel efficiency, the conditions under which this claim was made, and real-world data from Indian users.
Factors Influencing Fuel Efficiency
- Driving Conditions: Ideal mileage is often achieved on highways with steady speeds (40–60 km/h), minimal braking, and smooth acceleration. City driving with traffic, frequent stops, and idling reduces mileage significantly.
- Fuel Type: The CNG variant offers better fuel economy than petrol due to the lower cost and higher energy efficiency of CNG. The 40 kmpl claim likely pertains to the CNG variant.
- Driving Habits: Smooth acceleration, maintaining optimal RPM, and avoiding aggressive driving can boost mileage.
- Vehicle Maintenance: Regular servicing, proper tire pressure, and clean air filters contribute to better fuel efficiency.
- External Factors: Weather, road quality, and load (passengers or cargo) impact mileage. For instance, driving with the AC off in cooler climates can improve efficiency.
Analyzing the 40 KMPL Claim
The claim of 40 kmpl is most likely associated with the Hyundai Exter CNG variant, as its ARAI mileage of 27.1 kmpl is the closest to the reported figure. Online forums and user reviews on platforms like Team-BHP and CarDekho indicate that CNG vehicles can exceed ARAI figures under hypermiling conditions—driving techniques optimized for maximum fuel efficiency. These include:
- Maintaining a constant speed of 40–50 km/h.
- Avoiding sudden acceleration or braking.
- Driving on flat, open highways with minimal traffic.
- Turning off the AC and other electrical loads.
For instance, a user on Team-BHP reported achieving 30–32 kmpl with the Exter CNG on a highway trip from Delhi to Jaipur, with careful driving and no AC. While 40 kmpl is a stretch, it’s not entirely impossible under hypermiling conditions, especially for short distances where the vehicle’s trip computer might show inflated figures due to favorable conditions.
Real-World Mileage Data
Based on user reviews aggregated from CarWale, ZigWheels, and X posts (as of 2025), the Hyundai Exter’s real-world mileage typically ranges as follows:
| Variant | City Mileage (kmpl) | Highway Mileage (kmpl) |
|---|---|---|
| 1.2L Petrol (Manual) | 15–17 | 18–20 |
| 1.2L Petrol (AMT) | 14–16 | 17–19 |
| 1.2L Petrol+CNG | 22–25 (CNG mode) | 25–30 (CNG mode) |
| 1.0L Turbo-Petrol | 13–15 | 16–18 |
Note: Real-world figures vary based on driving style, traffic, and maintenance.
The CNG variant’s highway mileage of 25–30 kmpl aligns with the possibility of hitting higher figures under optimal conditions. However, 40 kmpl remains an outlier, likely achievable only in short bursts or specific scenarios.
How to Achieve Maximum Mileage with the Hyundai Exter
For Indian car owners looking to maximize their Hyundai Exter’s fuel efficiency, here are actionable tips:
- Drive Smoothly: Avoid rapid acceleration and braking. Use cruise control on highways if available.
- Maintain Optimal Speed: Stick to 40–60 km/h on highways for peak efficiency, especially in CNG mode.
- Turn Off AC When Possible: AC usage can reduce mileage by 2–3 kmpl. Use it sparingly in cooler weather.
- Regular Maintenance: Service your car every 6 months or 10,000 km, check tire pressure monthly, and replace air filters as needed.
- Use CNG Mode: If you own the bi-fuel variant, prioritize CNG mode for better economy, especially with rising petrol prices (₹94–100 per liter in India, 2025).
- Plan Routes: Use apps like Google Maps to avoid traffic-heavy routes, especially in cities like Mumbai or Bangalore.
Pro Tip: For CNG users, refuel at reputable stations (e.g., Indraprastha Gas Limited or Mahanagar Gas) to ensure high-quality fuel, as impurities can reduce efficiency.
Why Does Mileage Matter for Indian Car Buyers?
Fuel efficiency is a top priority for Indian buyers due to:
- Rising Fuel Prices: As of June 2025, petrol prices in major cities like Delhi (₹94.72/liter) and Mumbai (₹100.98/liter) make fuel economy critical.
- Environmental Concerns: With India’s push for cleaner fuels and CNG infrastructure expansion, efficient vehicles like the Exter CNG align with eco-friendly goals.
- Budget Constraints: Compact SUVs like the Exter target middle-class families who value low running costs.
Achieving high mileage, like the claimed 40 kmpl, translates to significant savings. For example:
| Fuel Type | Mileage (kmpl) | Cost per km (₹) | Monthly Savings (1,000 km) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol | 19.4 | 4.88 (at ₹94.72) | Baseline |
| CNG | 27.1 | 2.14 (at ₹58/kg) | ₹2,740 |
| CNG (Claimed) | 40 | 1.45 (at ₹58/kg) | ₹3,430 |
Note: CNG prices based on Delhi rates (2025). Savings calculated against petrol variant.
When Can You Expect High Mileage?
High mileage like 40 kmpl is most likely under these scenarios:
- Long Highway Drives: Routes like NH48 (Delhi–Mumbai) or NH44 (Delhi–Bangalore) with minimal stops.
- Cooler Seasons: Driving in winter (e.g., November–February in North India) reduces AC usage.
- Light Load: Minimal passengers and cargo to reduce engine strain.
- Hypermiling Techniques: Practiced by enthusiasts who prioritize efficiency over speed.
Where to Test the Hyundai Exter’s Mileage?
To replicate high mileage figures, try these Indian routes known for smooth traffic and flat terrain:
- NH48 (Delhi to Jaipur): A 270-km stretch with well-maintained roads, ideal for steady cruising.
- NH44 (Chennai to Bangalore): A 350-km highway with minimal congestion outside city limits.
- Mumbai-Pune Expressway: A 94-km route perfect for testing highway efficiency.
Caution: Avoid testing in congested cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Kolkata, where traffic reduces mileage significantly.
FAQs About Hyundai Exter Mileage
Q1: Can the Hyundai Exter really achieve 40 kmpl?
A: While the CNG variant’s ARAI mileage is 27.1 kmpl, 40 kmpl is possible under hypermiling conditions (e.g., steady highway driving, no AC, optimal speed). However, it’s not typical for everyday driving.
Q2: How does the Exter’s CNG variant compare to rivals?
A: Compared to rivals like the Tata Punch CNG (26.99 kmpl) and Maruti Brezza CNG (25.51 kmpl), the Exter’s 27.1 kmpl is competitive, especially with its lower price point (starting at ₹6.13 lakh, ex-showroom, 2025).
Q3: Does using AC affect mileage significantly?
A: Yes, AC usage can reduce mileage by 10–15% (2–3 kmpl). Turning it off during cooler weather can boost efficiency.
Q4: How reliable are trip computer mileage readings?
A: Trip computers may show inflated figures for short trips or ideal conditions. For accurate data, calculate mileage manually by dividing distance traveled by fuel consumed.
Q5: Is the Exter CNG variant worth it?
A: For high-mileage drivers (e.g., 1,500+ km/month), the CNG variant offers significant savings due to lower fuel costs (₹58/kg vs. ₹94.72/liter for petrol in Delhi, 2025).
Is 40 KMPL a Reality or a Myth?
The claim of 40 kmpl for the Hyundai Exter, while extraordinary, is theoretically possible under hypermiling conditions with the CNG variant. Real-world mileage typically ranges between 22–30 kmpl for CNG and 15–20 kmpl for petrol, depending on driving conditions. For Indian car buyers, the Exter remains an attractive option due to its affordability, features, and competitive fuel economy.
Are you a Hyundai Exter owner? Test your mileage on a highway trip and share your results in the comments! If you’re considering buying the Exter, visit your nearest Hyundai dealership for a test drive or check out user reviews on CarWale or ZigWheels to make an informed decision. Maximize your savings with our fuel efficiency tips and drive smart!
