Hyundai Venue: In the bustling Indian automotive market, where SUVs reign supreme, the Hyundai Venue has carved out a niche for itself as a compact yet feature-rich offering.
Since its introduction in 2019, this sub-4-meter SUV has been turning heads and winning hearts with its blend of style, technology, and practicality.
Let’s dive deep into what makes the Hyundai Venue a compelling choice in the highly competitive compact SUV segment.
The Birth of the Venue
The Hyundai Venue was born out of the Korean automaker’s desire to tap into the burgeoning compact SUV market in India. Launched in 2019,
it was Hyundai’s answer to the growing demand for SUVs that could navigate urban jungles while offering the commanding presence and practicality associated with larger vehicles.
Developed with the Indian market in mind, the Venue was designed to meet the specific needs and preferences of Indian consumers. It aimed to offer a premium experience in a compact package, a strategy that has paid off handsomely for Hyundai.
Design and Exterior: Urban Chic Meets SUV Toughness
The Hyundai Venue’s design is a perfect embodiment of the company’s ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ design language.
It manages to look both rugged and sophisticated, a difficult balance to achieve in the compact SUV segment. Let’s break down its key design elements:
Front Fascia: The Venue features Hyundai’s signature cascading grille, flanked by split headlamp units. The top portion houses the LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), while the main headlamp unit sits lower in the bumper. This unique arrangement gives the Venue a distinctive face that stands out in a crowd.
Side Profile: The SUV’s compact dimensions are evident from the side, but clever design elements like a strong character line and roof rails add to its visual appeal. The floating roof design, achieved through a blacked-out C-pillar, adds a touch of modernity.
Rear Design: The rear of the Venue is characterized by its square LED taillights and a chunky bumper. The wide stance and high-set taillights contribute to its SUV-like appearance.
Dimensions: At 3995mm long, 1770mm wide, and 1605mm high, the Venue makes the most of its compact footprint. The 2500mm wheelbase is impressive for its class, contributing to interior space.
Ground Clearance: With a ground clearance of 195mm, the Venue is well-equipped to handle Indian road conditions, including speed breakers and potholes.
Wheels: The top variants come with 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels that add to the vehicle’s premium look.
The overall design of the Venue strikes a fine balance between urban sophistication and SUV ruggedness. It’s a look that appeals to young, style-conscious buyers while still offering the commanding presence expected from an SUV.
Interior and Comfort: Premium Feel in a Compact Package
Step inside the Hyundai Venue, and you’re greeted by an interior that punches above its weight class. Hyundai has done an excellent job of creating
a space that feels premium and spacious despite the vehicle’s compact exterior dimensions. Let’s explore the key aspects of the Venue’s interior:
Dashboard Layout: The dashboard features a clean, modern design with a floating touchscreen infotainment system taking center stage. The use of premium materials and thoughtful design elements elevates the overall feel of the cabin.
Seating: The Venue offers comfortable seating for five adults. The front seats are well-contoured and supportive, while the rear bench offers decent legroom and headroom. The high seating position provides a commanding view of the road, true to its SUV nature.
Boot Space: With 350 liters of boot space, the Venue offers adequate cargo capacity for its class. The rear seats can also be folded to accommodate larger items.
Infotainment: The centerpiece of the interior is the 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and also includes Hyundai’s BlueLink connected car technology, offering features like remote engine start and vehicle tracking.
Instrument Cluster: The instrument cluster is a mix of analog and digital displays, providing clear and easy-to-read information to the driver.
Storage Spaces: The cabin offers numerous storage spaces, including a cooled glove box, door pockets, and cup holders in the center console.
Air Conditioning: The Venue comes with a powerful AC unit that cools the cabin quickly. Higher variants also offer automatic climate control.
Sunroof: A segment-first electric sunroof is available in higher variants, adding to the premium feel of the interior.
The interior of the Venue showcases Hyundai’s expertise in creating premium-feeling cabins. Despite its compact exterior, it offers a level of comfort and features that can rival larger, more expensive SUVs.
Engine and Performance: Choice and Efficiency
The Hyundai Venue offers a choice of three engines, catering to different driving preferences and needs. Let’s examine these powertrains:
1.2-liter Kappa Petrol Engine:
Displacement: 1197cc
Maximum Power: 83 PS @ 6000 rpm
Peak Torque: 114 Nm @ 4000 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed manual
1.0-liter Turbo GDi Petrol Engine:
Displacement: 998cc
Maximum Power: 120 PS @ 6000 rpm
Peak Torque: 172 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed manual, 7-speed DCT, or 6-speed iMT
1.5-liter U2 CRDi Diesel Engine:
Displacement: 1493cc
Maximum Power: 100 PS @ 4000 rpm
Peak Torque: 240 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed manual
The 1.2-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine is perfect for city driving, offering a good balance of performance and efficiency.
The 1.0-liter turbo-petrol is the performance option, providing spirited acceleration and good highway cruising ability.
The diesel engine, with its strong low-end torque, is well-suited for those who do a lot of highway driving or prefer the efficiency of diesel power.
The availability of multiple transmission options, including the innovative iMT (intelligent Manual Transmission) which offers clutchless manual shifting, adds to the Venue’s appeal.
The 7-speed DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) paired with the turbo-petrol engine offers quick, smooth shifts and is perfect for those who prefer an automatic.
Fuel Efficiency:
1.2-liter Petrol: 17.52 km/l
1.0-liter Turbo Petrol: 18.15 km/l (MT), 18.15 km/l (DCT)
1.5-liter Diesel: 23.70 km/l
These ARAI-certified fuel efficiency figures are competitive for the segment, making the Venue an economical choice for both city commutes and long drives.
Ride and Handling: Urban Agility Meets Highway Stability
The Hyundai Venue offers a well-balanced ride and handling package that’s well-suited to Indian road conditions. Here’s a closer look at its driving dynamics:
Suspension: The front uses McPherson struts while the rear features a coupled torsion beam axle. This setup offers a good balance between ride comfort and handling stability.
Steering: The electric power steering is light at low speeds, making city maneuvers easy. It weighs up adequately at higher speeds, providing good feedback and stability.
Braking: The Venue comes with disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. The braking performance is confidence-inspiring, with good pedal feel.
NVH Levels: Hyundai has done a commendable job in controlling Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) levels. The cabin remains well-insulated from road and engine noise, especially in the petrol variants.
High-Speed Stability: Despite its compact dimensions, the Venue offers good stability at highway speeds, inspiring confidence during long drives.
City Drivability: The light steering, good visibility, and responsive engines make the Venue easy to drive in city conditions. The compact dimensions and tight turning radius make it perfect for navigating through tight urban spaces.
The overall ride and handling characteristics of the Venue strike a good balance between comfort and control, making it well-suited for a variety of driving conditions.
Features and Technology: Punching Above Its Weight
The Hyundai Venue comes packed with features that are often found in higher segments. Here’s a rundown of key features:
BlueLink Connected Car Technology: This allows users to control various vehicle functions remotely through a smartphone app.
8-inch Touchscreen Infotainment: Supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, offering seamless smartphone integration.
Wireless Phone Charging: A convenient feature for compatible smartphones.
Air Purifier: An integrated air purifier helps maintain air quality inside the cabin.
Cruise Control: Enhances comfort during highway drives.
Rear Parking Camera: With dynamic guidelines to assist in parking.
Automatic Climate Control: For enhanced comfort in varying weather conditions.
Drive Modes: Includes Normal, Eco, and Sport modes to alter the vehicle’s performance characteristics.
Traction Control Modes: Snow, Sand, and Mud modes help optimize traction in different conditions.
Arkamys Sound System: Offers premium audio quality.
These features, many of which are segment-first or best-in-class, add significant value to the Venue package and contribute to its premium positioning in the compact SUV segment.
Safety: Prioritizing Occupant Protection
Hyundai has equipped the Venue with a comprehensive suite of safety features:
Structure: The Venue is built on Hyundai’s K1 platform, which uses high-strength steel for improved crash protection.
Airbags: Dual front airbags are standard, with side and curtain airbags available in higher variants.
ABS with EBD: Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution is standard across all variants.
Vehicle Stability Management: Helps maintain control during sudden maneuvers.
Hill Assist Control: Prevents the vehicle from rolling backwards on inclines.
ISOFIX Child Seat Anchors: For secure installation of child seats.
Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock: Automatically unlocks doors in case of a collision.
Speed Sensing Auto Door Lock: Doors automatically lock when the vehicle reaches a certain speed.
These safety features have helped the Venue score well in crash tests, reinforcing Hyundai’s commitment to occupant safety.
Market Positioning and Competition
The Hyundai Venue competes in the highly competitive compact SUV segment. Its primary competitors include:
Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza: Known for its fuel efficiency and Maruti’s wide service network.
Tata Nexon: Offers a strong build and good safety ratings.
Kia Sonet: Shares its platform with the Venue but offers a different design and feature set.
Ford EcoSport: Known for its driving dynamics and robust build.
The Venue differentiates itself with its combination of premium features, multiple powertrain options, and Hyundai’s brand value. It’s positioned as a slightly more premium offering in the segment, appealing to buyers who want a compact SUV that doesn’t feel like a compromise.
Ownership Experience: Living with the Venue
Owning a Hyundai Venue comes with several advantages:
Reliability: Hyundai has built a reputation for producing reliable vehicles, and the Venue is no exception.
Service Network: Hyundai has a wide service network across India, ensuring easy access to maintenance and repairs.
Low Running Costs: The fuel-efficient engines and Hyundai’s competitive service costs keep running expenses in check.
Resale Value: Hyundai cars generally enjoy good resale value in the Indian market.
Premium Feel: The overall quality and features of the Venue make owners feel like they’re driving a car from a segment above.
However, potential owners should also consider:
- Initial Cost: The Venue is priced at a slight premium compared to some competitors, reflecting its feature-rich nature.
- Rear Seat Space: While adequate, the rear seat space might feel a bit cramped for taller passengers on long journeys.
Hyundai Venue: A Compact SUV That Delivers Big
The Hyundai Venue represents a successful blend of compact dimensions and big-car feel. It manages to offer the features, comfort, and presence of larger SUVs while staying within the crucial sub-4-meter length.
This makes it an attractive option for buyers looking to upgrade from hatchbacks or those who want SUV styling without the bulk.
Its success in the Indian market is a testament to Hyundai’s understanding of local needs and preferences. The Venue doesn’t just meet the basic requirements of a compact SUV; it exceeds expectations in many areas, from interior quality to features and performance options.
As the automotive industry moves towards electrification and increased connectivity, it will be interesting to see how the Venue evolves. Hyundai has already shown its commitment to keeping the model fresh with regular updates and feature additions.
In conclusion, the Hyundai Venue stands as a compelling option in the compact SUV segment. It offers a premium experience in a compact package, combining Hyundai’s renowned quality with features and space that belie its size.
For buyers looking for a vehicle that can handle the daily urban grind while being comfortable and capable enough for weekend getaways, the Venue presents a strong case for itself.
It truly lives up to its name, serving as a perfect venue for the convergence of style, technology, and practicality in the compact SUV space.