We have to wonder how Hyundai continues to find ways to squeeze more value into their vehicles. Each new offering seems to further defy the pricing standards, as they incorporate long lists of active safety equipment and infotainment options into vehicles priced below many competitor’s meagerly-appointed base offerings.
For instance, take the all-new 2020 Hyundai Venue. For an almost unbelievable starting price of $17,350 the 2020 Venue includes an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as lane-departure warning and an automated emergency braking system. With pricing and options like that Hyundai’s subcompact crossover SUV actually redefines expectations for an “entry-level vehicle.” Further, the low pricing and advanced safety and connectivity features make the Venue an appealing option for parents looking for a first vehicle for a new driver.
The Venue is powered by a 121-horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. A standard six-speed manual transmission is standard and a CVT is optional. The engine provides excellent fuel economy with up to 30 city and 34 highway mpg. For the majority of daily driving, the Venue’s Unfortunately, the engine concedes acceleration for efficiency and highway passing often requires extra planning. The precise steering and sharp handling make the Venue a fun little vehicle around town, but again the Venue feels out of place on the highway at speed. The little SUV seems to wander a bit, requiring a little extra driver effort.
The Venue’s interior shines, especially in light of the price point and subcompact segment classification. Front seat passengers are given plenty of room. The driver will appreciate the leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. It is amazing how much those two touchpoints add to the overall driving perceptions. Yes Hyundai cuts corners, for instance the base model has no center armrest, but the overall appearance and comfort of the interior is a step above the base models of many competitors and just about every entry-level vehicle made only a few years ago.
Rear seat passengers will find the accommodations adequate for two adults, three smaller children will also fit comfortably. Venue offers 19 cubic feet of cargo room behind the 60/40 split-folding rear seats. Fold them down and cargo space increases to 32 cubic feet. Both numbers are right in line with subcompact crossover segment expectations.
Hyundai should be proud of their latest crossover, fitting in nicely with the Kona, Tucson, Santa Fe and Palisade. Consumers looking for an affordable subcompact SUV will appreciate the value and high-level of standard features.
