If you've been considering a new compact SUV, now might be the perfect time to take a closer look. A recent change in GST rates has made several popular models more affordable, and the Hyundai Exter is one of the biggest beneficiaries.Thanks to the government's revision of GST on sub-4-meter vehicles, the Hyundai Exter has become significantly cheaper, making it an even tougher competitor for its main rival, the Tata Punch. The new tax structure, which came into effect on September 22, 2025, reduces the total tax from around 29% to a flat 18%.Hyundai has passed this benefit directly to customers, resulting in price drops across all variants of the Exter, including petrol and CNG models Depending on the specific trim, the price reduction ranges from about₹56,000 to nearly₹90,000. With this cut, the starting ex-showroom price for the Exter now begins at around₹5.49 lakh.This price adjustment makes the Exter an even more compelling option for buyers looking for an SUV-like vehicle on a budget. Before the GST cut, the entry-level Exter was priced around₹6 lakh. The new pricing brings it firmly into territory previously dominated by hatchback cars, offering more features and a different style of vehicle for a similar price.Of course, the Exter isn't the only one getting a price cut. Its top competitor, the Tata Punch, also benefits from the new GST rates, with its starting price now at approximately₹5.50 lakh This ensures the rivalry between these two popular micro-SUVs will only get more intense, which is great news for car buyers The price adjustments are expected to boost car sales, especially with the festive season right around the corner
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