In the world of automobiles, hatchbacks have lost a lot of popularity. This is a fact that is known well by every automaker including Hyundai. The reason why Japanese automaker produces the Venue is to make it the successor of the Accent. The key point that makes this model interesting is probably its $17,250 price tag, which is inexpensive even if you still have to pay the $1,095 destination fee.
The Venue, however, is rather an oddity in the realm of subcompact crossovers. It’s shorter than most of its competitors – take the Honda HR-V and Nissan Kicks as examples – and comes with less space for passengers in the rear. Thanks to the sharp pricing strategy, though, it can be a nice alternative to small saloons. Even those wanting to buy the Elantra might think twice after seeing this crossover.
Hyundai offers the 2020 Venue in three trim levels in the U.S. If you only plan to use your car for a daily driver, the SE M/T is more than enough for you as it packs all the necessaries you’d need. But if you want to get the best value for your money, then the SE IVT is your thing.
IVT itself stands for Intelligent Variable Transmission, an in-house setup that is said to offer higher efficiency than the manual gear shift. The SE grade is equipped with standard features like a 3.5-inch instrument cluster screen, 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment display that supports Android and iOS connectivities, buttons on the steering wheel, a USB charging port and 12v power outlet socket, air conditioning, cruise control, automatic headlights, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection.
Coming with even better equipment, the SEL trim offers the Convenience and Premium packages as options. The SEL will be perfect if configured with both of them, but the pricing will go up to $22,050 for the IVT. The Denim, meanwhile, exclusively use the continuously variable transmission and costs $21,950. All Venue cars share the same heart, namely a 1.6-liter four-cylinder petrol engine with dual-port injection.
You would have guessed that this engine was never meant to produce high performance. You’re right, in fact, the unit makes 121 hp and 113 lb-ft of torque, so if the thrill of unmatchable speed is what you’re looking for, just don’t think about buying the Venue – the crossover is designed for urban driving, not for racing. Lastly, the model is scheduled to hit U.S. dealerships this month.