Hyundai launches new entry-level SUV model
Hyundai has announced a fun-size, entry-level SUV for the Aussie market.
Buyers looking for a small SUV, listen up! Hyundai is bringing a new vehicle to Australia, the pint-sized Venue SUV. It'll be here this month with list prices starting from a nominal $19,990.
The benefits of an SUV, in a small package
Hyundai says it's managed to bundle up the essence of an SUV and distil it into a tightly packaged vehicle. In practice, this supposedly gives you a spacious and stout car with the economics of a small hatchback.
The car is powered by a frugal 1.6-litre petrol engine, with all models having two driven wheels. The engine is good for 90kW and 151Nm. Hyundai matches the engine with either a six-speed manual or an equivalent automatic cog swapper.
The standard equipment list is pleasingly extensive. All trims benefit from an infotainment system that centres around an 8-inch touchscreen. Bluetooth streaming, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also found on every Venue SUV, as is a rear camera.
Drivers will feel confident behind the wheel, thanks to the Hyundai SmartSense suite of safety assists. Right from the factory, all models are loaded with Forward Collision-Avoidance, Lane Keep Assist, Driver Attention Warning, High Beam Assist and tyre pressure sensors.
Hyundai Venue range
The new SUV lineup is made up of the entry-level Venue Go, the Active and the Elite.
Venue Go
This model has dusk-sensing headlamps, a hill start assistant, cruise control and six airbags, as well as the above mentioned range-wide equipment. You can purchase the model with either a manual or automatic transmission. As is often the case for a cutback trim level, the Go rolls on steel wheels.
A manual Venue Go costs $19,990, while automatic drivers will have to shell out $21,990.
Venue Active
On top of the Go specifications, the Active offers rear parking sensors, LED daytime running lights, power-folding side mirrors with LED indicators, alloy rims and a leather steering wheel/gear shifter.
Hyundai dealers will ask $21,490 for a Venue Active with a manual gearbox and $23,490 for an automatic.
Venue Elite
As the name suggests, this model sits atop the Venue lineup.
It's only sold as an automatic, for the princely sum of $25,490. For the extra outlay, you'll receive additional safety aids like Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, sat-nav, climate control, LED rear lights, 17-inch alloys and a two-tone roof colour scheme.
Metallic and mica paints
Hyundai is charging buyers an optional $495 for premium paint finishes.
Tweaked to suit Aussie conditions
Hyundai has also made a great effort to emphasise the Australian-specific tuning that engineers carried out. Apparently, their efforts were profound. To thoroughly test the fun little SUV, they took it to some of the most arduous Aussie roads they could find.
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Picture: Supplied
