Having your first car is a pivotal decision in your life. Not only is it a big financial decision, it will also make or break your perception of cars in general. A good car will undoubtedly evoke freedom and spirit of adventure within you as you now have more control over your mobility. However, a clunker will push nothing but the hassle in your thoughts. Thankfully, there are now more options in the market.
The Hyundai Venue is one of the newest crossovers in the Philippines. It’s not only good for those moving up in size, it’s also amenable to first time drivers looking for their first car. Don’t listen to naysayers that say you have to go through a small hatchback first. You can go straight to the Hyundai Venue and you will be delighted.
Captivating Looks
Hyundai was able to make the Venue light on the eyes by having a simple aesthetic. There’s nothing that competes with the rectangular Daytime Running Lights on the front face. What it does is guide your eyes to the split headlight assembly, which is what the Venue design is all about – it makes you look closer to see its identity.
The same can be said about the rear section. It’s bland at first glance with the huge space on the tailgate, lack of outlandish contours, and relatively small square taillights on the corners. But turn the headlights on or step on the brakes and you’ll see the Z-pattern on the taillights giving it a very distinct road presence.
Following the vibe of the front face is the dashboard layout. It retained the look of the Venue by having white bezels on the air vents, simulating the DRLs outside. The layout is also very straightforward. It doesn’t matter what car you came from, or what you used during your driving school, you won’t have a learning curve once you’re inside the Venue.
Solid Engine
Perhaps the biggest distinction of the Hyundai Venue over its rivals is what’s under the hood. It has a naturally-aspirated 1.6-liter gasoline engine that makes 123 horsepower and 121 Nm of torque, paired either to a 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual for three-pedal fans out there. That means there’s more pep in every step, giving you more power when you need it like in overtaking or in steep parking lots.
The top trim of the Hyundai Venue also comes with Drive Mode Select, giving you more control about your engine’s dynamics. It has Eco – if you want to be more frugal, Normal – for daily driving conditions, and Sport – for those moments you want every bit of that engine power.
Smart Beyond Features
I said the cabin of the Venue is simple, but it still has enough creature comforts for the daily drive. You’ll certainly appreciate the Tilt and Telescopic steering wheel for better driving position that also has call and audio buttons. Power adjustable side mirrors are standard, while Power Folding function is also available. There’s also a Push Start Button with Smart Entry, 8-inch touchscreen with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Digital Instrument Cluster, and a USB-C port.
What’s not in the spec sheet are the smart cubby holes in the Venue. There’s a space above the glovebox for things that we need the most – like wet wipes and alcohol in my case. There’s also a deep pocket between the USB ports and shifter in case you want your device steady in one place. The front passenger seat also has a net for things that are too big for the glovebox.
It must also be said that Hyundai kept things physical with the Venue as the touchscreen still comes with tactile buttons underneath it. There’s also small rotary knobs on both corners of the screen for power, volume, and tuning.
Even the cargo area was given proper attention. Aside from the abundance of space for your belongings, it also comes with a tonneau cover to keep your things from the harsh sun or the gangsters of the streets and open parking lots. The rear seats can also be split-folded so you can still have passengers despite having big things in your cargo area.
Core Safety Covered
I understand you’re still anxious when driving around since you’re still not used to public roads. Hyundai knows that too and that’s why the Venue is fitted with Airbags, Rear Sensors, Rear Camera, ABS, Electronic Stability Control, and Hill Start Assist Control. So whether you’re driving or parking, the Hyundai Venue won’t alienate you.
“The return of the Hyundai VENUE reaffirms HMPH’s commitment to making the Hyundai ownership experience more within reach, while maintaining the brand’s renowned quality and reliability. At the same time, we also answer our customers’ demands by bringing back this notable nameplate. We are proud to reintroduce this vehicle, which offers the right balance of premium features, trusted engineering, and smart value; which we think is the perfect blend for the modern Filipino – especially those who wish to join the Hyundai family for the first time. We at HMPH believe that this is the car that can take you to your next life milestone and goal, through every journey.” says Mr. Cecil Capacete, HMPH Managing Director.
Enticing Price
If the front face of the Hyundai Venue and its rear taillight, the Venue’s price doesn’t need a second look. The Hyundai Venue starts at PHP 778,000 for the GL MT, PHP 898,000 for the GL AT, and the GLS AT comes at PHP 998,000. You choose from Denim Blue, Abyss Black Pearl, Ecotronic Gray Pearl, and Atlas White for its colors.
No matter what variant you choose, no matter where you’re coming from if straight out of driving school or from a previous smaller car, the Hyundai Venue will be a compatible companion for you in your daily drive and weekend getaways.
