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Hyundai’s new Venue makes its entrance into the fastest growing car category -  the compact SUV/Crossover segment. A late arrival but a nice arrival, none the less!

 

As a motoring journalist, I am overwhelmed by the 20 or so available choices in this category. I can only imagine how you feel.

 

Hyundai have two other cars in this space that sandwiches the Venue very closely - the Kona and the Creta. The Kona is really just a funky looking hatchback that is slightly raised, while the Creta is a little bigger and more traditionally styled. Their starting price are both higher than the Venue.

 

Painted with a fresh aesthetic, the Venue has a bold front design thanks in large to its dramatic grille. Interesting also, are the slim headlights that contrast harmoniously with the large fog lamps below. This is in juxtaposition to the neat and tidy rear design that is less overt in styling. Its side profile mimics the design of Volvo’s XC40. That’s not a bad thing either, since the Volvo is gorgeous and totally unique. 

 

The interior is less trendy than the exterior. Instead, it is a modern place that balanced form with function. Speaking of form and function - there are three model grades: Starting with the base Motion, followed by the mid-spec Fluid (the sweet spot in my option) and the top of the range Glide model. No, the Venue isn’t a lubricant brand. Jokes aside, the Venue’s strengths are its outstanding value and warranty offer. These two factors elevate that appeal of the Venue dramatically.

 

Yes, it drives well - I believe the Venue is classed in the top 10 within its competitive group. The ride is a tad firm but not bone chattering. Accommodation is in line with the rest of the field too. Disappointingly, you are unable to split the rear bench in two when folding the seats. You will need to step up to the Glide model that offers the 50/50 split feature.

 

The Venue range has one motor option – a 1.0-l three-cylinder turbo petrol. Nippy is a good word to describe its zest for life. Not as refined as the same sized motor in the VW T-Cross though. There is however 172 Nm of torque and 88 kW power that will see you hitting 100km/h in just over 11 seconds. The 6-speed manual gearbox is a gem, albeit the 7-speed auto shifter will probably suit most customers in urban use better.

  

Features like smartphone pairing for things like Apple CarPlay that allows you to navigate your next adventure, stream your favourite music apps and making and receiving phone calls are standard across the range.

 

The Venue is a compelling option in this cluttered segment. I feel with its clever pricing strategy and leading warranty it is hard to beat! 

 

The competition

Citroen C3 Aircross, Fiat Panda/500 X, Ford EcoSport, Honda BRV, Jeep Renegade, KIA Seltos, Mahindra XUV300, Mazda CX-3, Mitsubishi ASX, Opel Crossland X, Peugeot 2008, Renault Duster/Captur, Suzuki Vitara, Toyota Rush and VW T-Cross.

 

 

Pricing 

Venue 1.0 T Motion R285 500

Venue 1.0 T Motion Auto R319 500

Venue 1.0 T Fluid R324 500

Venue 1.0 T Fluid Limited Edition R328 900

Venue 1.0 T Fluid Auto R355 500

Venue 1.0 T Fluid Limited Edition Auto R360 500

Venue 1.0 T Glide R385 900

Venue 1.0 T Glide Limited Edition R385 900

 

Service and warranty 

 

The Hyundai Venue comes standard with a 5-year / 150 000 km Manufacturer's Warranty, additional 2-year / 50 000 km Powertrain Warranty, 5-year / 160 000 km Perforation Warranty, 7-year / 150 000 km Roadside Assist and a 3-year / 45 000 km Service Plan. 

www.hyundai.co.za

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