New Hyundai Venue Detailed Review – What We Think?

The new-gen model of the already impressive compact SUV is here to take things to the next level

Here’s my detailed review of the new Hyundai Venue compact SUV, which was launched a few days ago. This time around, the Korean auto giant has made deliberate efforts to ensure that the already all-rounded last-gen Venue is improved in all aspects. Admittedly, this was a monumental task, but Hyundai has been able to achieve it. The Venue is bigger than the previous-gen version, embodies new-age tech and safety equipment and continues to offer multiple powertrains and transmissions to cater to the needs of all sorts of buyers. For now, let us delve into what we thought about the compact SUV.

New Hyundai Venue Review – Styling

As we know from social media forums and discussions, people are calling it a mini Creta. I must agree with that to some extent since it encapsulates the latest design philosophy from the Korean car marque. At the front, it gets LED DRLs on the edge of the hood, which are connected via an LED light strip. The main LED headlamp cluster is located down below, flanking the colossal grille. Further down, I appreciate the sturdy skid plate, which accentuates its sporty and rugged stance. Moving sideways reveals new aero-inspired diamond-cut alloy wheels. These remind us of the Hyundai EVs, but I am not particularly a fan of these.

Further back, the extended dimensions allow the inclusion of a new rear quarter glass on the C-pillar with Venue insignia. It will improve the airy element inside the cabin. Apart from that, the side body panels contain muscular cuts to boost its road presence. Finally, the tail end contains connected LED taillamps, much like the Creta, along with other components like a shark fin antenna, a roof-mounted spoiler, a prominent skid plate and a sporty bumper. All in all, the new-gen Hyundai Venue certainly looks fresh and totally distinct in comparison to the last-gen model.

New Hyundai Venue Review – Interior, Features and Safety

Step inside the cabin of the new Hyundai Venue and you will instantly feel like you are in a vehicle from a segment above. The first thing I noticed in contrast to the outgoing model is the increased space by virtue of being wider, taller and having slightly more wheelbase. I felt that this new Venue feels much more posh than most of its rivals, including the Maruti Brezza, Mahindra XUV 3XO and Tata Nexon. The plastic quality is quite close to what you get in costlier Hyundai cars. The touchpoints feel truly premium. We know that Hyundai always equips its vehicles with all the latest tech amenities.

The biggest attraction of the cabin is the dual-12.3-inch panoramic display containing the driver’s instrument cluster and infotainment display. The air con vents look neat and the Venue gets wireless charging, an electronic parking brake, an electric sunroof, a drive mode selector, a dual-tone pattern, etc. I feel it would be quite tricky to maintain these dual-tone interiors and upholstery. Finally, the new Venue gets a new steering wheel with the Morse Code badging, like pricey Hyundai EVs. Also, the key of the Venue is quite appealing with a giant Hyundai logo with buttons integrated inside.

Moving to the rear compartment highlights the increased size of the new Hyundai Venue. The scooped out rear part of the front seat and the roof ensure that the passengers won’t feel crammed for room, regardless of how well-built an individual is. The centre armrest with cupholders takes things a notch higher and the wider cabin ensures that two adults and a child can sit comfortably, which could not be said about the last-gen model. The cabin has evolved quite well and things like an 8-speaker Bose audio system take care of the entertainment. The safety amenities include Level 2 ADAS, 6 airbags, all four disc brakes, ABS, EBD, ESP, etc. Finally, the boot space is 375 litres, which is more than the outgoing model.

Specs and Price

Let’s now move on to the engine and gearbox choices that the new Hyundai Venue comes with. The compact SUV still offers three distinct powertrains, giving buyers a broad range of options. These consist of a 1.2-litre Kappa MPi petrol, a 1.0-litre turbo GDi petrol, and a 1.5-litre U2 CRDi diesel engine, producing 83 PS / 114.7 Nm, 120 PS / 172 Nm, and 116 PS / 250 Nm of maximum power and torque, respectively. Regarding transmission setups, the naturally aspirated petrol unit comes with a 5-speed manual only, the turbo petrol can be paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DCT, while the diesel engine offers both a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque converter automatic. Clearly, Hyundai has ensured that the Venue caters to every type of buyer. The introductory prices range from Rs 7.90 lakh to Rs 15.51 lakh, ex-showroom.

Driving Impressions

Now I have driven the last-gen Venue and feel like it was always a great car to drive. However, due to a retuned suspension, the new Venue feels even better. The new Venue gives us a feeling of the Creta with a plush and planted ride. The riders won’t experience any jerks, even on uneven surfaces with potholes. Also, the steering feels well-weighted, particularly on city roads. Even around corners, the vehicle oozes stability. The peppy turbo petrol doesn’t feel sluggish at all. I also noticed that the low-end grunt is much prominent in this Venue, which makes things exciting.

I also drove the turbo petrol version with the automatic transmission. What I find immensely impressive is just how smooth and refined the diesel mill is. The NVH levels are great and you would only feel slight noise if you truly push the engine. Overall, the diesel mill is definitely among the best. Hence, for those who want low running costs and drive a lot, the diesel is the one to go for. The new Hyundai Venue bears huge improvements over the outgoing model in every aspect. With tons of variants, each buyer will be able to find the one which suits their needs the best.

Also Read: New Hyundai Venue 0-100 km/h Acceleration Test – How Fast Is It?