Hyundai Venue

For the GLS variants, leather touches can be found inside including a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a leather shift knob. On the other hand, the GL trim uses less premium materials. Instead of leather, inside is a urethane steering wheel as well as a soft-touch PVC material for the gear stick. However, all Venue models include a 3.5-inch multi-info display, a tilt/telescopic steering column, steering wheel audio controls, automatic climate control, and 60:40 split rear seats. They also have an 8-inch media touchscreen infotainment system that supports AM/FM radio, Bluetooth, USB, as well as Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. It also doubles as a rearview camera to guide you when parking. In terms of speakers, the GLS has a six-speaker sound system while the GL only has four.

The Venue is smaller than the Kona measuring in at 4,040mm long, 1,770 mm wide, and 1,565 mm tall. For comparison, the Kona is 4,165mm long, 1,800mm wide, and 1,550mm tall. Due to its small size, it puts it up against the likes of the Ford EcoSport, Nissan Juke, and the just-released Kia Stonic. When compared to the Stonic, the Venue is 60mm shorter in length and 35mm more narrow. It also has less ground clearance coming in at only 170mm. Design-wise, the Venue adopts a straightforward boxy approach with chiseled features. On the front is Hyundai’s signature two-tier headlight that includes bi-function halogen lighting. In addition to that, it also has square-shaped LED daytime running lights. Keeping with the boxy theme, the rear taillights are also similarly designed and have a unique Z-shaped appearance. The vehicle is available in two trims: the GLS and GL, which come with either 15-inch or 17-inch alloy wheels.

The Venue offers a simple drive mode and traction control selectors which allows the driver to optimize their driving experience. The vehicle is also ideal for long-distance drives. In addition to that, the engine is perfectly silent even when cruising between 100-120 kmph in sixth gear for long periods of time. It also speeds up rapidly, making overtaking on the highway pretty easy. Steering is also light as well as the six-speed gearbox clutch. The ride quality is a bit stiff, but it’s not necessarily uncomfortable. The suspension also absorbs bumps and potholes with no trouble.

The Venue is powered by a 1.6-litre naturally-aspirated, four-cylinder Gamma engine. It can generate 121 hp at 6,300 rpm and 151 Nm of torque at 4,850 rpm. This is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and uses a two-wheel drivetrain. 

The vehicle is equipped with six airbags--one for the driver, the front passenger, and four side and curtain airbags. Other safety features include Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brake Distribution, three-point seatbelts for all passengers, and vehicle stability control. It’s also outfitted with Advanced High-Strength Steel which allows the vehicle to absorb and mitigate damage in the event of a crash or collision.

The Hyundai Venue is definitely an interesting entry into the subcompact market. The model will be priced below P1 million, making it a relatively affordable crossover for the amount of features as well as the powerful engine included. In addition to that, the Venue sports a distinct appearance that straddles between sleek and aggressive. It’s a vehicle that grabs attention while still remaining practical and fierce. The Hyundai Venue is perfect for those who want an affordable SUV that’s still rugged but doesn’t compromise on convenience and style.