Hyundai Exter vs Mahindra Bolero vs Nissan Magnite (2026)
The classic compact suv shortlist, settled with numbers (October 2026):
- Pick the Hyundai Exter if you want the best claimed efficiency (up to 27 kmpl), the biggest boot (391 L).
- Pick the Mahindra Bolero if you want the most seats (7).
- Pick the Nissan Magnite if you want the lowest starting price (₹5.68 Lakh), the most power (99 bhp), the best crash-test score (4 stars).
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 →Mahindra Bolero in short
The Bolero is Mahindra's evergreen workhorse, a ladder-frame 7-seater that has ruled rural and semi-urban India for over two decades. It sells on toughness, cheap maintenance and a vast service network rather than features or refinement. There is no direct rival at its price; buyers cross-shop it with the Bolero Neo and used Scorpios.
Full Bolero prices & variants →Nissan Magnite in short
The Magnite is Nissan India's sole volume model and the price-warrior of the sub-4m SUV segment, with the 2024 facelift adding a plusher cabin, an AMT option and up to six airbags while retaining rock-bottom pricing. The 1.0 turbo-petrol with CVT remains an unusually affordable pairing for the class. It fights the Renault Kiger, Tata Punch, Maruti Fronx and entry variants of the Nexon and Venue.
Full Magnite prices & variants →Head-to-head pairs
Frequently Asked Questions
Exter vs Bolero vs Magnite — which should I buy?
Pick the Hyundai Exter if you want the best claimed efficiency (up to 27 kmpl), the biggest boot (391 L). Pick the Mahindra Bolero if you want the most seats (7). Pick the Nissan Magnite if you want the lowest starting price (₹5.68 Lakh), the most power (99 bhp), the best crash-test score (4 stars). Test-drive at least two before deciding — ride and dealer experience differ by city.
Which is the cheapest among Exter, Bolero, Magnite?
The Nissan Magnite starts lowest at ₹5.68 Lakh, against ₹5.81 Lakh for the Exter and ₹8.49 Lakh for the Bolero (ex-showroom, October 2026).
Which is the safest of the three?
Hyundai Exter: not yet NCAP-tested; Mahindra Bolero: not yet NCAP-tested; Nissan Magnite: 4 stars.