Hyundai Exter vs Kia Syros vs Mahindra Bolero Neo (2026)
The classic compact suv shortlist, settled with numbers (October 2026):
- Pick the Hyundai Exter if you want the lowest starting price (₹5.81 Lakh), the best claimed efficiency (up to 27 kmpl).
- Pick the Kia Syros if you want the most power (118 bhp), the best crash-test score (5 stars), the biggest boot (465 L).
- Pick the Mahindra Bolero Neo if you want the most seats (7).
Three-Way Specification Comparison
Hyundai Exter in short
The Exter is Hyundai's entry SUV and the direct answer to the Tata Punch, blending hatchback running costs with a high-riding stance. It packs segment-first kit such as a dashcam with dual cameras, a sunroof and six airbags as standard. The dual-cylinder CNG option keeps boot space usable, a clever touch rivals lack.
Full Exter prices & variants →Kia Syros in short
Launched in early 2025, the Kia Syros slots between the Sonet and Seltos with boxy, EV3-inspired styling and a surprisingly premium cabin. It brings big-car features to the sub-4-metre class, including a panoramic sunroof, Level 2 ADAS and segment-first reclining-and-sliding rear seats with ventilation. A 5-star Bharat NCAP rating strengthens its case against the Tata Nexon, Maruti Brezza and its own sibling, the Sonet.
Full Syros prices & variants →Mahindra Bolero Neo in short
The Bolero Neo is the modernised take on the Bolero formula, built on a hydroformed ladder-frame chassis derived from the TUV300. It pairs the tough-SUV appeal and 7-seat practicality of its elder sibling with a more powerful 100 bhp diesel and a marginally better-equipped cabin. It sits in a niche of its own, competing partly with sub-4m monocoque SUVs like the Tata Nexon diesel on price.
Full Bolero Neo prices & variants →Head-to-head pairs
Frequently Asked Questions
Exter vs Syros vs Bolero Neo — which should I buy?
Pick the Hyundai Exter if you want the lowest starting price (₹5.81 Lakh), the best claimed efficiency (up to 27 kmpl). Pick the Kia Syros if you want the most power (118 bhp), the best crash-test score (5 stars), the biggest boot (465 L). Pick the Mahindra Bolero Neo if you want the most seats (7). Test-drive at least two before deciding — ride and dealer experience differ by city.
Which is the cheapest among Exter, Syros, Bolero Neo?
The Hyundai Exter starts lowest at ₹5.81 Lakh, against ₹8.42 Lakh for the Syros and ₹8.99 Lakh for the Bolero Neo (ex-showroom, October 2026).
Which is the safest of the three?
Hyundai Exter: not yet NCAP-tested; Kia Syros: 5 stars; Mahindra Bolero Neo: not yet NCAP-tested.