Automobile Alley

2020 HYUNDAI VENUE is a fun and functional modern suV

BY DAVID FINKELSTEIN

Offered in three trim levels, the fivepassenger 2020 Hyundai Venue compact sport utility vehicle is a welcomed entry in this popular category. It has a somewhat conservative outer body design that hinges on being bold with a contemporary footprint; yet, it has Hyundai’s signature design language. It’s not an over-the-top execution, but it certainly stands out when compared to the other SUV’s in the Hyundai product mix. The optional two-tone color offering for the roof, mirrors and body trim is recommended if you are wanting to make a statement with this new entry. Venue symbolizes a handsome, yet trendy, unique style perfect for first-time buyers seeking a small SUV. It includes a lengthy list of standard safety and available features, all at an attractive base price point of $17,350. Their top end Denim model has a sticker price of $22,050. Freight charges of $1,140 aren’t included. Without question, it’s all about packaging and quality engineering. Venue designers were taxed with the assignment to develop a fun, yet functional and versatile compact modern SUV that would appeal to a wide customer base. With a quick road test, I think that you would agree that this objective was achieved. The one thing that stands out the instant you get up to posted driving speeds is the quiet interior. From everyday workplace assignments, helping with your “things to do” list, to weekend fun, Venue is a great fit in accommodating busy lifestyles. This SUV exhibits excellence in a small-but-confident body form, delivering a new design language that tends to be cross-shopped with the likes of the Chevrolet Trax, Fiat 500X, Kia Seltos, Nissan Kicks, Jeep Renegade, Toyota C-HR and the Mazda CX-3. The vehicle’s side profile showcases a solid and noticeable full wheel arch design coupled with strong character lines. The front cascading grille assembly includes the new Hyundai signature face that is also found on both the Kona and their NEXO hydrogen fuel cell powered crossover. Also included are composite LED lights and cube shape headlamps. It’s unique and attractive character lines continues towards the tail lamps. Venue is available with attractive 17-inch alloy wheels along with their standard 15-inch tire and wheel package. “The Hyundai SUV lineup can be compared with the pieces on a chess board,” said SangYup Lee, executive vice president of design for Hyundai Motor Group. “Our new Palisade is the king, but we are missing the smaller piece. And that’s where Venue comes in. It may be small, but its unique and bold design sets it apart from the rest of the pack.” Clearly, fuel economy is a key factor for customers who purchase an entry-level vehicle. Venue meets this objective with the advanced 1.6 liter four-cylinder engine. The Dual Port Fuel Injection powerplant is rated at 121 horsepower. It’s paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or an intelligent variable automatic transmission, set up on a front-wheel-drive chassis. Based on testing and depending on the trim level and/ or options, fuel estimates run between 30 MPG city and 35 MPG highway. The dash instrument gauges and controls are easy to decipher. The appealing interior space and comfortable cabin provide adequate space. In part, this is due to the vehicle’s standard 60/40 split flat folding backseat to maximize utility. The cargo space features a rear covering shelf for added privacy and can be conveniently stowed. All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by the factory’s five-year/60,000-mile fully transferable new vehicle limited warranty.