- Both are top-spec versions
- Knight Edition prices start at Rs. 8.38 lakh
Introduction
Hyundai has finally launched a Knight Edition for the Exter with prices starting at Rs. 8.38 lakh. This was a long-expected step considering the success they tasted with the Venue and Creta Knight Editions. We have already looked in detail at the features of the Exter Knight Edition and here is how it stacks up against its main rival, the Tata Punch. The stakes are much higher than you think as the two cars are separated by only Rs.5,000, thus making this a tight game.
Exterior and dimensions
The Tata Punch is wider, longer, and slightly taller but both cars have the same wheelbase, offering similar levels of space inside. What separates them then is the exterior design and in that obviously, the Exter has the upper hand due to the unique paint scheme both on the body and the wheels.
However, Tata has its Dark Editions and the Punch and the Punch EV are yet to get one. Once the latter is launched it will even the playing field but will hike the price of the Punch considering the cost of the existing top-spec version.
Feature list
On the feature front, both cars, in these top-spec versions, get climate control with rear AC vents, height adjustment for the driver’s seat, connected car technology, and a full LED light cluster. The Exter has the upper hand for the infotainment system, with a bigger screen and wireless phone mirroring, while in the Punch, it’s a wired connection. Then, there is the fact that the Exter has a fully digital cluster, while in the Punch, it’s a semi-digital unit.
But, we have already seen what a Punch with a fully digital cluster will look like, thanks to the Punch EV, and when launched, will give Tata an upper hand. On the safety front, the Exter has six airbags as standard across the range, while the Punch only offers two. However, the latter has a five-star rating from GNCAP.
Powertrains
Both cars have a 1.2-litre petrol engine that can also be run on CNG. The Punch’s engine produces 87bhp/115Nm, while the Exter’s produces 82bhp/113Nm. Both make use of a five-speed MT or a five-speed AMT for the models referred to in the story.
The game is much closer than you think
Rs.5,000. That’s all that separates the cars from each other. Ultimately, it is down to which brand you want and also your take on what is a priority for you in terms of safety features. We can also look at the fact that while this is where the Hyundai tops out completely, the Punch will still go one stage further as it is yet to get a Dark Edition.
