The subcompact SUV segment in India is booming. With compact dimensions and a high driving position, subcompact SUVs are becoming the vehicle of choice for many buyers. Hyundai jumped into the foray by launching the Venue in 2019 and set a new benchmark in the segment. The Venue combines Hyundai’s prowess in design, features and performance in an attractive package.
Introduction to Hyundai Venue
The sub-4-meter SUV segment saw rapid growth after the launch of cars like the Maruti Brezza, Tata Nexon, and Mahindra XUV300. Buyers were attracted to the high seating position, extra space compared to hatchbacks, and manoeuvrability of a compact vehicle.
Sensing an opportunity, Hyundai entered the fray with the Venue in 2019. Pitched as “India’s First Connected SUV”, the Venue took the game to a new level by offering:
- Striking design and styling
- Segment-first connected car technology
- Strong performance from petrol and diesel engines
- Generous equipment list across variants
In the 5 years since its launch, the Venue has established itself as one of the leading models in the subcompact SUV space. Let’s take a closer look at the various aspects that contribute to the success formula of the Hyundai Venue.
Distinctive Design Language
When launched, the Venue turned heads thanks to its unique styling both inside and out. The exterior gets Hyundai’s signature chrome-stitched grille with projector headlamps, LED DRLs, skid plates, and roof rails, lending an imposing road presence beyond its compact dimensions.
The sporty theme continues inside, with a D-cut steering wheel, metal pedals, and ambient lighting for a premium feel. 6 different exterior colours allow buyers to customise the Venue to their taste.
Later, Hyundai introduced the Venue N Line with an even sportier exterior treatment, including an all-black grille, 16” diamond-cut alloys, red accents, and twin-tip exhaust. As reviewed on the ACKODRIVE website, the N Line carries the same youthful spirit through all-black interiors with red stitching.
Connected Car Technology
When launched in 2019, the Venue boasted an industry-first connected car suite. Hyundai’s BlueLink system in the Venue offered various features under categories for unprecedented connectivity, including:
- Safety & Security – Auto Collision Notification, SOS/Emergency Assistance, Roadside Assistance, Stolen Vehicle Tracking
- Remote Operations – Remote Start/Stop, Climate Control, Door Lock/Unlock, Horn Honk & Light, Vehicle Status Info
- Location-Based Services – Geo Fence, Time Fence, Destination Send to Car
- Alert Services – Vehicle Theft, Vehicle Status, Speed, Time Fence, Geo-Fence
- Navigation Services – Last Mile Navigation, Connected Blue Link Map, Live Traffic Info
BlueLink-equipped variants also get smartwatch app connectivity, voice recognition, and in-car eSIM for uninterrupted connectivity while moving.
Strong Performance
The Hyundai Venue is available with 3 powertrain options:
- Kappa 1.2 l MPi – 83 bhp/114Nm
- Kappa 1.0 l Turbo GDi – 120 bhp/172Nm
- U2 1.5 l CRDi VGT- 116 bhp/250Nm
The peppy 1.0 Turbo petrol delivers an exciting drive with 200Nm torque across a wide range. The refined diesel motor offers segment-leading torque for effortless drivability. Customers can pair the 1.0 Turbo petrol with Hyundai’s smooth-shifting 7-speed DCT automatic.
Thanks to its rigid structure and tuned suspension, the Venue offers a well-judged balance of ride and handling for city runs while confidently taking on highways. The light steering wheel and a tight turning radius of 5.2m add to nimble city driving characteristics.
Packed with Features
Hyundai has always led the way when it comes to creature comforts and features, and the Venue carries on the legacy by offering:
- 8” Touchscreen Infotainment with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
- Electric Sunroof
- Cruise Control
- Wireless Charger
- Air Purifier
- Voice-enabled Smart Electric Sunroof
- Multiple Drive & Traction Modes
- Paddle Shifters (DCT only)
- Rear AC Vents
- Cooled Glovebox
Top variants get ADAS tech, including Forward Collision Warning and Assist, Lane Keep Assist, and Driver Attention Warning for added safety and convenience. With 33 first-in-segment features, the Hyundai Venue aimed to set new benchmarks.
Safety First
Safety is paramount for Hyundai, and the Venue comes equipped with:
- 6 Airbags
- ABS with EBD
- ESC, VSM & HAC
- Hill-start Assist Control
- ISOFIX Child Seat Anchors
- Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock
- Rear Parking Sensors + Camera
Variants & Pricing
The Hyundai Venue is available in 7 variants across petrol and diesel engines, offering a choice of manual and automatic transmissions:
Petrol
- E – ₹8.72 lakhs
- S – ₹10.02 lakhs
- SX – ₹12.62 lakhs
- SX(O) – ₹14.10 lakhs
Diesel
- S – ₹12.84 lakhs
- SX – ₹14.80 lakhs
- SX(O) – ₹15.87 lakhs
Attractively priced across variants, the Venue offers excellent value along with Hyundai’s extensive sales and service network.
Conclusion
The Hyundai Venue has consistently ranked among the top three best-selling subcompact SUVs. It introduced several firsts, such as BlueLink connectivity, a comprehensive safety suite, N Line sporty trim, and, most recently, ADAS tech, which has been adopted by competitors as well.
With its head-turning design, thrilling performance, connectivity, comfort, safety, and a wide choice of variants, the Hyundai Venue has played a vital role in the meteoric rise of the sub-4-meter SUV segment. By delivering on all fronts, Hyundai has ensured that the Venue continues to find pride in its place in driveways across India while introducing new benchmarks in the category.
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