It’s official: Hyundai’s latest utility vehicle, the tiny Venue, starts at $18,345, which includes the destination charge. The all-new model gives Hyundai five SUVs, supplying customers with a wide choice of models to consider. We’ll see the first Venues arrive in dealer showrooms by the end of November.
2020 Hyundai Venue
The 2020 Hyundai Venue slots beneath the Hyundai Kona and is followed by the Tucson, Santa Fe, and Palisade.
Every Hyundai SUV except the Tucson is new or has been updated within the past model year. As for the Tucson, it was refreshed in 2019, thus we’ll likely see the next-generation model in 2021.
Only Front-Wheel Drive
Every 2020 Venue comes with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 121 horsepower and 113 pound-feet of torque. The base model has a six-speed manual gearbox, while all other trims include a continuously variable transmission.
Like the Toyota C-HR and Nissan Kicks, the Hyundai Venue is front-wheel-drive-only.
Standard and Available Tech Features
The 2020 Venue SE comes with an 8-inch color display, four speakers, HD Radio, Bluetooth, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone compatibility, and a USB port.
Choose the SEL ($19,150, plus destination) and this one brings in package options, which include such features as navigation, satellite radio, and connected services.
You’ll also find standard automatic headlights, keyless entry, full power accessories, and air conditioning. Upgrades include LED lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, heated side mirrors, heated front seats, and push-button start.
Denim Trim and Safety Features
Hyundai also offers a special Denim trim ($21,950, plus destination), which includes an exclusive Denim exterior color, contrasting white roof, and a Denim interior with cloth and imitation leather seats. However, a power sunroof is not available here as it is with the SEL’s Convenience Package.
As for safety features, Hyundai goes beyond the required rearview monitor by including the Hyundai SmartSense safety group. Here, Hyundai bundles forward-collision avoidance with pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist and driver attention warning. Available features include blind-spot collision warning with rear cross-traffic alert.
Hyundai Value
Unlike some other manufacturers who are abandoning or curtailing car models, Hyundai remains committed to the segment by offering a full field of sedans and hatchbacks. For customers wanting a small car, they’ll find such models as the subcompact Accent, the compact Elantra, the small Veloster hatchback, and the Ioniq line of electrified vehicles.
Manufacturers continue to fill their model lines with utility vehicles, which offer the storage options customers want. Indeed, the 2020 Venue sports 18.7 cubic feet of storage space or 31.9 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. Along with a higher profile, the budget-friendly Venue brings much value to first-time shoppers.
2020 Hyundai Venue Specifications
| Hyundai | 2020 Venue |
|---|---|
| Segment | Subcompact SUV |
| Price Range | $18,000 (est.) |
| Destination Charge | $930 |
| Standard Engine | 1.6-liter, I4 |
| Horsepower | 121 hp @ 6,300 rpm |
| Torque (lb.-ft.) | 113 lb.-ft. @ 4,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual or CVT |
| Seating | 5 |
| Curb Weight (pounds) | 2,557 to 2,732 |
| Wheelbase (inches) | 99.2 |
| Length (inches) | 159.0 |
| Width (inches) | 69.7 |
| Height (inches) | 61.6, 62.7 |
| Headroom (f,r…inches) | 39.4, 38.6 |
| Legroom (f,r…inches) | 41.3, 34.3 |
| Shoulder room (f,r…inches) | 53.9, 53.7 |
| Hip room (f,r…inches) | NR |
| Storage (cubic feet) | 18.7, 31.9 |
| Gross vehicle weight (pounds) | NR |
| Towing (pounds) | NR |
| Payload (pounds) | NR |
| Fuel | regular |
| Fuel Tank (gallons) | 11.9 |
| EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined) | NR |
| Manufacturing Plant | Ulsan, South Korea |
Data compiled by Tom Keegan. Specifications supplied by the manufacturer.
See Also — Diminutive SUV: Hyundai Venue
Photo copyright Hyundai Motor America.
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