Launch Report: Hyundai Venue

UPDATED HYUNDAI

VENUE

As part of their relentless drive to introduce or update their SUV line-up, Hyundai South Africa recently invited us to sample the new Venue. Text: Hanjo StierImages: Hyundai Automotive S.A.

This fairly small compact cross-over vehicle is one of their youngest model lines, having been introduced to the world (and us here in southern Africa) around 2019 to 2020. By now, the tail end of 2022, it provides the entry point into Hyundai’ s local SUV range which continues with Creta, Kona, Grand Creta, Tucson, Santa Fe and Palisade. NamWheels has been extremely fortunate to attend the introduction or update of almost all these vehicles, as quite a few of them got a stylish face-lift in recent times. From Tucson downwards, it’ s now pretty easy to spot the family resemblance through design details like this Venue ’ s intricate radiator grill! The local representatives also took this opportunity to refresh the line-up of their best-seller: there is now a sporty N-Line derivative with bespoke design details to set it apart from its stable-mates. Those come in either “Motion” or “Fluid” trim with wellthought-out speciications that make these cars excellent value for money. Other new features include a horizontal light bar at the back, as well as a redesigned boot lid with a wider bottom aperture for easier loading of cargo. Motion models may only have stylish hubcaps, but all Venues have a base spec level which includes modern convenience features, sensible safety devices and a few driver aids. Other headlines of this newcomer include ABS and hill-start assist, two airbags, Isoix anchor points, folding rear seats (60/40 split in the dearer models), removable cargo cover, multi-function steering wheel, as well as an 8inch touch-sensitive infotainment system with rear view monitor. Both Apple and Android phones are supported by this media unit. There ’ s also a variety of USB ports. Fluid and N-Line models boast additional features such as four more airbags, electronic stability control and brake force distribution, cruise control, leather trim on selected cabin items, cooled glove box and rear cabin ventilation ducts. Exclusive to the top model are goodies like a glass sunroof, automatic air conditioning and various drive modes. Power comes from one of two engines: a 1.2L 4-cylinder petrol engine with 61kW and 115Nm, or a 1.0L 3-cylinder turbo-petrol motor delivering 88kW or 172Nm. The 1200 engine is only shipped in Motion spec with a 5-speed manual gearbox while the 1L turbo comes in all spec levels with a 6-speed manual or 7-speed (automated) dual clutch transmission. Fuel consumption for all power plants and speciication levels hover between 6.5 and 6.9L/100km from the 45L tank, while every new Venue is front-wheel drive only. Shod with 195/65R15 (Motion) or 215/60R16 tyres (all other versions) travel on McPherson suspension struts at the front and a coilassisted torsion beam at the back. During our launch route in South Africa ’ s Western Cape, we found the ride to be well balanced and quite supple, absorbing road imperfections quite well. The vehicle feels reasonably planted for an upright cross-over while the spritely 1.0T engine offers good power-to-weight dynamics with conidenceinspiring performance. At its launch, exterior colour choices include Polar White, Phantom Black, Typhoon Silver, Titan Grey and Fiery Red, while N-Line buyers can opt for a two-tone design: White, Grey or “Nicobar Blue” with a black contrast roof. Prices range from about 300,000 to 450,000 and include a 7-year/200,000km warranty and 3-year/45,000km service plan.

FROM R 3 999