KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- The Venue has been revamped thoroughly inside out.
- The powertrain options have been carried over unchanged.
- The car has grown in terms of size.
- There have been many feature additions.
The Hyundai Venue has been all over the internet; we don't really need to discuss why. In its latest generation, the Venue has gone through a huge list of changes, but the question is, do they make any difference? We shall talk about it right here.
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Hyundai Venue Facelift First Look Review: Design
This might be a controversial opinion, but the new Venue seems to be all over the place in terms of how it looks. This is sad because Hyundai usually nails it when it comes to how its cars look. It retains its boxy proportions, but the front end now takes clear inspiration from the Alcazar, with a connected LED strip running across the top and linking the vertical headlamps. A larger grille further draws attention, but we're not sure how good or bad is it.
From the side, the updated Venue has some similarities with the Exter, appearing like a slightly larger version. The front and rear fenders are more flared, and sharper creases have been added to break up the body panels. Black cladding runs along the sides for added protection and a more rugged look. The SUV also features new 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels.
At the rear, the design is cleaner and more restrained. The tailgate is completely new, and the tail lamps are slimmer, joined by a connecting light bar. The lower bumper features black cladding and a silver skid plate insert to complete the look. This seems to be inspired by the Inster EV sold globally.
Hyundai Venue Facelift First Look Review: Engine And Performance
The new Venue continues to offer the same three engine options as before a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol, a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol, and a 1.5-litre diesel each paired with different transmission choices.
The 1.2-litre petrol engine remains unchanged, producing 81.8bhp and 114.7Nm of torque, and is available only with a 5-speed manual gearbox. This is expected to remain the most popular option among buyers due to its balance of efficiency and ease of use. However, we feel there should've been an automatic option here; perhaps an AMT would have sufficed, and if the Exter and i10 are anything to go by, Hyundai's AMTs usually work fairly well.
The 1.0-litre turbo-petrol continues to serve those looking for more performance. It delivers 118.4bhp and 172Nm of torque, and can be paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. While it remains to be seen how the manual performs in this car, on the outgoing car, the automatic surprisingly wasn't very snappy when it came to spirited driving, as it takes a bit longer to shift than expected.
The 1.5-litre diesel engine also carries over with no changes to its output, producing 113.9bhp and 250Nm of torque. The key update here is the addition of a 6-speed torque converter automatic option, alongside the existing 6-speed manual. This should be a good pick for someone who wants both performance and efficiency.
Hyundai Venue Facelift First Look Review: Interior And Features
The new Venue features a completely redesigned cabin, drawing inspiration from several of Hyundais global models. The centre console has been reworked with slimmer air vents and a more organized layout that includes physical buttons for the air-conditioning and media functions. The dashboard now features a connected dual-screen setup, combining two 12.3-inch displays for the infotainment system and digital instrument cluster. The steering wheel is new as well and appears similar to the one seen on the Creta Electric, notably without the Hyundai logo. Its a three-spoke unit with multifunction controls on either side.
Tthe new Venue has grown, as Hyundai says the wheelbase now measures 2520mm, which is 20mm longer than the outgoing car's. The height and width of the new Venue have also grown over the older car by 48mm and 30mm respectively. Rear cabin space has been an issue with the Venue in the past, and we can expect things to somewhat improve with this gen, given the growth in dimensions.
In terms of equipment, the Venue now offers a four-step power-adjustable drivers seat, a two-step reclining rear bench, drive and traction modes, a Level 2 ADAS suite, and rear window blinds, among other convenience and safety features.
Verdict
The new Venue has a lot of things going for it, but the pricing of certain top-end variants will make things a little tricky to justify, especially when some mid-spec variants of the Creta aren't too far away, with a larger engine, bigger cabin, and an overall more premium experience. That said, the new Venue will still find it easy to attract customers.
