The compact SUV segment in India has seen remarkable growth, with numerous car manufacturers introducing affordable yet feature-packed models. The options available are abundant, but for those with a budget of around ₹7 lakh, three major contenders often come to mind: the Tata Punch, Nissan Magnite, and Hyundai Exter. Each offers unique features and strengths, but which one stands out as the best option? In this detailed comparison, we will analyze the key aspects such as design, performance, safety, and overall value for money to help you make an informed decision.
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Tata Punch: Bold, Safe, and Affordable
Design & Build Quality
Tata Punch is one of the standout players in the sub-4-meter SUV segment. Its design is robust and bold, inspired by Tata’s Impact 2.0 design philosophy. The punchy front grille, sharp creases, and flared wheel arches give it an aggressive look, despite being a compact SUV. The high ground clearance of 187 mm also ensures that it can handle rough terrains with ease.
Inside, the cabin is spacious for a sub-4-meter SUV, but it doesn’t match the premium vibe found in some competitors. The dashboard layout is simple and user-friendly, though the materials used are not as plush as those in some rivals. While it does offer ample space for passengers and luggage, the overall feel is somewhat basic compared to the more premium offerings.
Engine & Performance
The Tata Punch is powered by a 1.2L 3-cylinder petrol engine that churns out 72.5 PS of power and 103 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a 5-speed manual or optional AMT transmission. While the performance is decent for city driving, it may feel underwhelming on highways, especially if you are looking for a more powerful engine.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Tata Punch delivers a mileage of approximately 20.09 km/l, making it an economical choice for everyday use.
Safety Features
One of the strongest selling points of the Tata Punch is its safety. With a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating, the Punch offers excellent protection in case of an accident. Key safety features include:
- Dual airbags
- Anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
- Rear parking sensors
- Child safety locks
- Strong build quality
While it doesn’t offer advanced safety features like traction control or hill-start assist, its overall safety package makes it an excellent option for safety-conscious buyers.
Price Range
The Tata Punch starts at ₹6.13 lakh (ex-showroom), making it a very affordable compact SUV, especially for those who want a solid, safe, and budget-friendly vehicle.
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Nissan Magnite: Stylish, Feature-Packed, and Value for Money
Design & Build Quality
Nissan Magnite brings a stylish, modern, and futuristic look to the compact SUV segment. The bold front grille, sleek LED headlights, and sharp lines on the bodywork give it a premium appearance. The rear of the vehicle is equally stylish, with a well-integrated bumper and LED tail-lamps. The Magnite stands out as one of the most attractive SUVs in this price segment.
Inside, the Nissan Magnite is surprisingly well-equipped, especially considering its price. The interior quality is superior to that of the Tata Punch, with a more premium feel. The dashboard layout is modern, with an easy-to-use 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The spacious cabin ensures ample comfort for both the driver and passengers.
Engine & Performance
The Nissan Magnite offers two engine options: a 1.0L naturally aspirated (NA) petrol engine and a 1.0L turbocharged petrol engine. The turbocharged engine is particularly exciting for those who enjoy a punchy performance. It delivers 100 PS of power and 160 Nm of torque, making it one of the most powerful options in this segment.
The engine is paired with either a 5-speed manual or a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) option, giving you the flexibility to choose between a more engaging driving experience and a smoother, more fuel-efficient ride. The fuel efficiency of the Magnite is impressive, with a mileage of up to 20 km/l, depending on the variant.
Safety Features
The Nissan Magnite offers solid safety features, including:
- Dual airbags
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
- Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
- Rear parking sensors
- Hill-start assist
- Traction control
Though it has a 4-star Global NCAP safety rating, the Magnite lags behind the Tata Punch in terms of overall safety features. However, the presence of advanced safety systems like traction control makes it a strong contender.
Price Range
With a starting price of ₹5.99 lakh (ex-showroom), the Nissan Magnite is a very affordable compact SUV, especially considering the list of features and performance on offer. The Magnite offers great value for money, particularly for those looking for a stylish SUV with good performance.
Hyundai Exter: The Premium Option with Features Galore
Design & Build Quality
Hyundai Exter brings a fresh look to the compact SUV segment. With its smooth lines, signature Hyundai grille, and modern LED headlights, it looks contemporary and well-designed. The Exter’s premium touches, such as the dual-tone exterior and distinctive styling elements, give it an upmarket feel.
Inside, the cabin is well-appointed, with high-quality materials and a user-friendly dashboard layout. The Exter offers better quality than the Tata Punch and Nissan Magnite in terms of fit and finish, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize interior design and comfort.
Engine & Performance
The Hyundai Exter comes with a 1.2L 4-cylinder petrol engine that produces 83 PS of power and 114 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with either a 5-speed manual transmission or an automated manual transmission (AMT), providing flexibility based on your preferences.
With a mileage of around 20.1 km/l, the Exter offers competitive fuel efficiency. The engine is smooth, refined, and provides a comfortable drive, making it ideal for both city commuting and highway journeys.
Safety Features
The Hyundai Exter is loaded with safety features, including:
- Six airbags
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Rear parking sensors
- High-speed alert system
The Exter’s robust safety features and 5-star NCAP rating make it one of the safest options in this segment. Its stability control and six airbags set it apart from the other two contenders.
Price Range
The Hyundai Exter is priced starting at ₹6.12 lakh (ex-showroom). While it’s slightly more expensive than the Tata Punch and Nissan Magnite, the feature-rich nature and premium feel make it worth the investment.
Comparison at a Glance: Tata Punch vs Nissan Magnite vs Hyundai Exter
| Feature | Tata punch | Nissan magnite | Hyundai Exter |
| Starting price | ₹6.13 lakh | ₹5.99 lakh | ₹6.12 lakh |
| Engine Option | 1.2L petrol | 1.0L NA and turbo petrol | 1.2L petrol |
| Performance | 72.5 PS, 103 NM | 100 PS , 160 Nm (turbo) | 83 PS, 114 Nm |
| Mileage | 20.09 km/l | Up to 20 km/l | 20.01 /l |
| Safety Features | 5- star NCAP, Dual airbags | 4- star NCAP, Dual airbags | 5- star NCAP, 6 airbags |
| Interior Quality | Basic | Primium | Primium |
Final Verdict: Which One is the Best SUV Under 7 Lakh?
- Tata Punch is a great option for buyers who prioritize safety and solid build quality. It’s an ideal choice if you’re looking for an affordable, safe, and reliable compact SUV for city driving. However, it lacks the premium interior experience of its competitors.
- Nissan Magnite is the best choice if you’re looking for great performance, especially with the turbocharged engine. Its stylish design and impressive list of features make it an excellent value-for-money option.
- Hyundai Exter stands out as the most feature-packed and premium offering in this segment. If you want a compact SUV that offers modern design, excellent safety features, and superior interior quality, the Exter is hard to beat.
In conclusion, all three SUVs have their own strengths, but Nissan Magnite and Hyundai Exter offer the best overall value in terms of performance, features, and safety at this price point.
