Story by Manos Angelakis
Photos courtesy Hyundai Motors

2022/2023 Venue

The 2022 and 2023 Venue is the smallest and least expensive entry-level SUV in the Hyundai lineup that is currently available in the US.

It is a crossover hatchback that allows for maximized space on a small wheelbase. It has very good features including cruise control, rear view camera, remote vehicle locking, crash-avoidance tech, active lane control, climate control remote activation, location tracking and tire pressure monitoring. These features are available mostly in Hyundai’s larger vehicles and they stand out in a subcompact SUV. Add the sunroof that comes standard with the SEL trim, impressive Hyundai 5-year/60,000-mile warranty, 10 year 100,000 mile drivetrain warranty, 5 Years  Roadside Assistance and 3 years or 36,000 mile scheduled maintenance (oil changes every 6,000 miles) plus included gap insurance for leases and it is indeed an impressive package.

It’s a good looking vehicle, and I like some of the fun touches such as the taillight design, roof rack and upscale 17” wheels. It is nimble and rides well, even with its short wheelbase and low-tech suspension design. It is slightly lighter than other comparable crossover SUVs and that helps to improve mileage. With 121-horsepower, it’s much better in urban settings than on the highway, where the cabin lets in a bit too much road rumble.

A major advantage is easy parking in urban settings. You have excellent visibility from the high set front seats because of the large windshield and small hood. The only visibility problem we saw was when the back seat headrests were in place and up, but they are removable and when removed, that opens rear visibility dramatically.

Overall, the Venue is a very nice vehicle for the money. It has a total passenger volume of 91.9 cu-ft, which is surprisingly spacious. The pricing starts at $19,000 for the basic SE trim, and goes up about $1,750 for the much better equipped SEL and tops at the Limited trim, all of which make use of a 1.6-liter inline-4 cylinder engine teamed with a Continuously Variable Transmission. The SUV-like body gives the Venue adequate cargo space which can be practically doubled when the rear seat backrest is folded down. Performance is good, but the Venue feels much more lively in urban driving. In this car you save money on gas without losing any fun!

We got a 3 year lease on the 2022 SEL scarlet red model as there was a 2023 shortage on the color we actually wanted at the dealership. The dealer was Hudson Auto Group http://www.hudsonautogroup.com

The 2023 model has a few more features in the SEL trim and a slightly redesigned rear end.  

All in all, we are very happy with our decision and the price was right! I’ll agree… small is beautiful and very practical… and it’s very very easy on gas.

 

 

 

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