The Hyundai Venue offers much more than a makeover. And even better, the range topper in the latest model, the the N Line, it boasts a mighty kick for a sub-compact SUV, via its 1.0-litre three-turbocharged petrol engine.
The Turbo model also comes with style and design upgrades like the enhanced chrome front grille. Added to these improvements are enhanced safety features, functional upgrades many more vibey premium tech features for fun-filled driving experience.
Performance and economy
The Venue N Line is really fast and full of energy to perform all the time, with the engine producing 88 kW/172 Nm power and torque combo and front-wheel drive controlled via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
It is also a light SUV, with its kerb weighing just over 1,100 kg. Test drives have seconded Hyundai’s claim of the N Line reaching 100km/p in 10 seconds!
There are 3 drive modes, each altering the vehicle’s driving characteristics and is accompanied by a specific colour scheme on the digital instrument cluster. The three are: Normal, which is self-explanatory; Sport which sharpens up the throttle response; and Eco dials things back to preserve fuel.
The average fuel consumption on a normal drive over a flat shows a fuel consumption of 6.9 to 7L/100km as the Korean automaker claims. However, fuel consumption for the Venue can be as high as 7.9 L/100 km, depepending on type of driving and terrain. Which, still, is not bad at all; theoretically, the Venue’s 45-litre fuel tank can complete a 650km trip.
Apart from the speed, the N Line really has the looks all round, from the mean, bright grill to the sports exhaust at the rear.
The N Line rides on handsome 16-inch alloy rims shod with 215/60 tyres, which absorb the worst of all the ruts and bumps on the road.
The multifunction leather-wrapped steering wheel can be twirled with very little effort, giving the motorists the easiest of options to place the vehicle on the road.
Tech and safety features
The N Line Turbo has features to die for for a “baby SUV”, such as synthetic leather seats, selectable drive modes, metallic pedals, a sunroof and an electrically-adjustable driver’s seat, just to mention a few.
The infotainment system supports wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity allowing one to access smartphone functions such as online navigation and streaming services. The infotainment screen also displays the feed from the reverse-view camera.
In terms of safety features, the Venue N Line has 6 airbags, ABS, stability control and hill-start assist.
Verdict
The Hyundai Venue N Line is an attractive package providing plenty of fun, unique styling and quality driving. However, with a price tag closer to half-a-million bucks, it is a bit steeply priced. The mid-range model such as the Venue 1.0 TGDI Motion MT at R371,900 can provide nearly similar driving pleasure.
Price
Hyundai Venue 1.0T N Line R449 900
Sold with a 7-year/200 000 km warranty, as well as a 3-year/45 000 km service plan.
‘Baby SUV’ Hyundai Venue N Line is fast and fun to drive
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