The 2020 Hyundai Venue is a subcompact crossover with big ideas.
Pros Spunky looks Flexible cargo space Hatchback practicality 8.0-inch touchscreen Automatic emergency braking is standard
Cons Is it too small? That grille, though Wild colors Stretching the definition of a crossover
The Hyundai Venue will be the Korean automaker's newest and smallest crossover when it goes on sale for the 2020 model year. The tiny ute will slot below the already subcompact Hyundai Kona. We expect the 2020 Hyundai Venue to be in dealerships before the end of 2019. The Venue will have few direct competitors—namely the Ford EcoSport and the Nissan Kicks. We expect the pint-sized Hyundai to have an equally diminutive stature. An 8.0-inch infotainment system will offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability as well as streaming audio and voice-controlled search functionality. Navigation with real-time traffic updates will be optional.
The Hyundai Venue is a new runner in the small SUV segment, having made its debut in late 2019. Three grades are offered in Australia, but on test we have the range topper, the Venue Elite, which costs $25,490 (before on-road costs).The Venue Elite slots in neatly below the slightly larger Kona and features a suite of features like autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, cruise control, an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, 17-inch alloy wheels, two-tone paint, satellite navigation and climate control.
Nissan's smallest crossover receives a styling update for 2021 which includes a larger grille, streamlined headlamps and taillamps, redesigned front and rear bumpers, and a new 17-inch aluminum wheel design. Nissan has also expanded the availability of the contrasting black roof option to cars painted in Scarlet Ember Tintcoat, Boulder Gray Pearl, and Electric Blue Metallic. Inside, SV and SR models now come with a new 8.0-inch infotainment system, and all Kicks trims now feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard.A Wi-Fi hotspot is now available as an option on the top spec SR trim.
PROS Peppy around town, spacious cabin, generous standard equipment.
CONS Anemic at highway speeds, engine sounds thrashy at high revs, a few more storage cubbies wouldn't hurt.
The 2021 Nissan Kicks's #5 ranking is based on its score within the Subcompact SUVs category. Currently the Nissan Kicks has a score of 7.7 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 32 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
PROS Plenty of standard features Good cargo space for the class Excellent fuel economy
CONS Lackluster highway acceleration All-wheel drive not offered Worst predicted reliability score in the class
For 2021 Restyled exterior, Mild upgrades to cabin materials, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration now standard.
PROS Comes standard with lots of advanced driver aids Affordably priced High fuel economy Easy-to-use controls
CONS Leisurely acceleration Uncomfortable seats Not much rear legroom No optional all-wheel drive
