Hyundai Venue compact SUV given midlife makeover

MIKE OCHONMA

The Hyundai Venue compact SUV has undergone a facelift and been given a midlife makeover to keep it fresh in the face of increasingly strong competition.

Announced in India recently, the upgraded model is yet to reach the Nigerian market through its local dealer and sole franchisee, Stallion Motors Nigeria Limited.

From the outside, the redesigned front end takes inspiration from the latest-generation Tucson, which introduced the brand’s new ‘Parametic Dynamics’ design language.

The tail end has been redesigned too, with larger taillights that now extend across the tailgate, and there’s a totally new bumper design which incorporates a large rectangular element.

Inside, the cabin retains its familiar design, but there are new technologies such as the Home to car (H2C) system with Alexa and Google Voice Assistant. This allows owners to control certain car functions remotely, such as the climate control, and receive a vehicle status update.

This is also in addition to an interesting new feature called Sounds of Nature, which promises to provide a serene driving experience in city traffic.

Rear passenger comfort has also been improved with the fitment of a new two-step reclining back seat, which Hyundai says is unique to the segment.

The engine line-up continues as before in some markets like India, so it is assumed that the same will apply to other models in some regional markets including Nigeria.

Buyers can choose between a normally aspirated 1.2-litre unit that produces 61kW and a 1.0-litre turbopetrol that’s good for 88kW. A 1.5 turbodiesel is also available abroad, but it’s unclear whether this will ever be offered in Nigeria.

“With the new Hyundai Venue, we will set the bar even higher. Driven by the aspirations of Gen MZ customers, the new Hyundai Venue is set to enthral customers with many first in segment technologies that offer an unparalleled experience,” the automaker said in a statement.

“For instance, customers can now control many car functions through Home to car (H2C) with Alexa & Google Voice Assistant; 60+ Bluelink Connected features; and 2 Step Rear Reclining Seat. We are confident that the new Hyundai Venue will build on the strong brand legacy and amplify the Hyundai SUV Life for unmatched customer delight,” it said.