Introduction

The Coronavirus pandemic and the subsequent lockdown had limited us from bringing you regular updates about our long-term Hyundai Venue diesel manual SX(O). Now, owing to the phase-wise lifting of lockdown, we are back behind the wheel and all set to bring you long-term reports. In this story, we will look at all the good things about the Venue, and a few things that could have been better.

Positives

Sorted mechanicals

The 89bhp 1.4-litre turbo-diesel unit paired to a six-speed manual, is a strong suit of this top-spec Hyundai Venue. And, its usable torque of 220Nm has proven its versatility in city traffic and open stretches of the highway. Our long-term Venue was also subjected to numerous long-distance drives, where we noticed that it easily cruises at 100-120kmph at low RPMs as a bulk of torque is available in the mid-range. The light controls helped in the ghat sections where the sleek gearbox always felt easy to operate with precise shifts. The SUV is quite chuckable in the city as well.

Comfortable ergonomics

The ergonomic cabin offers an unobstructed view of the surroundings, and everything falls within reach. With the height-adjustable driver seat, we never faced any issues finding a comfortable driving position. What’s more, the many cubbies come handy to stow away loose cash or other belongings when you have to run quick errands.

Loaded with equipment

During Hyundai’s Great India Drive, many of the Venue’s features proved to be handy, especially the one-touch up/down driver window, making toll payments easier on the go. The wireless charging feature cut the need to carry any cables, while the Arkamys audio system and the chilling automatic climate control kept us entertained and cool in Rajasthan’s scorching heat. Further, the built-in GPS navigation came to our rescue when we ran out of internet coverage.

Design

Although looks are subjective, everyone at CarWale agrees that the Venue is better-looking than the competition. While the segment comprises of crossover or boxy shapes, the Venue’s funky yet palatable design brings fresher elements to the segment.

Negatives

Not so spacious at the back

Over the period, our co-passengers have complained about limited space at the back, which is unwelcoming to squeeze-in a third person. What further gives an illusion of the lack of space are the all-black interiors.

Bouncy high-speed ride

The Venue has largely neutral road manners. But, at highway speeds, we noticed that the ride starts to feel bouncy especially over sharp-edged potholes, longer road undulations or larger flyover section joints.

Conclusion

The Hyundai Venue has proved to be beneficial for us, be it our frequent photo/video shoots or the various trips, and that’s what makes it our go-to machine. Now, as the monsoon is on the anvil, we are looking forward to how it benefits us during the Mumbai rains.

Vehicle log

Odometer – 19,168 kilometres

Kilometre this month – 3,465 kilometres

Fuel Efficiency – 17.8kmpl

Photos by Kaustubh Gandhi