SsangYongs have been on sale in the UK since the ’90s – the company usually offers big SUVs for less than the majority of their competitors. Sadly, most of their models have proved to be lacklustre alternatives to the likes of the Kia Sportage, Suzuki Vitara and Nissan Qashqai. To drive, the Korando isn’t much fun, but most people buy one because they need an SUV either for tackling rough terrain or towing – two roles the SsangYong is perfectly suited to.
Pros Lots of space Relatively economical Generous standard kit
Cons Fast depreciation Dull styling Cheap feeling interior
The SsangYong Korando gives you a lot of car for your money – but nowhere near as much as a Dacia Duster.The SsangYong Korando is the brand’s mid-size SUV, pitched as a low-cost rival to the Nissan Qashqai, Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage. On the move, the Korando isn’t as stable as a lot of its rivals, either – it tends to wallow about when going around corners and has an uncomfortable ride.
Pros Good value for money Spacious interior Low emissions
Cons Noisy diesel engine Poor-quality plastics Uncomfortable suspension
Not only was it a handsome addition to the compact crossover market, it was also the firm’s very first monocoque model – meaning it delivered a far better approximation of a car’s handling characteristics than any of the body-on-frame SUVs that continue to fill out the firm’s modest lineup. On the plus side, the Korando gets large storage bins, reach and rake adjustment for the steering wheel and generous equipment levels on higher-spec models. It is also competitive on interior space; offering decent leg and headroom for rear passengers, and acceptable luggage space. The interior is slightly less forgettable, but only because it comes partly clad in the kind of cheap plastic which cannot otherwise find a home in this class. The redesigned dashboard makes ergonomic sense, although it hasn’t lost any of its brittleness.
For 2021 Manual transmission discontinued.Other minor changes to standard and optional feature availability.
Pros Impressive number of features for your money For its size, easy to get in and out of Simple control layout
Cons Engine sounds and feels a little coarse at higher speeds All-wheel drive isn't offered One of the smaller extra-small SUVs in the class
After only one year, Hyundai discontinues the standard manual transmission. All models now have a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The Venue also drops the standard steel wheels, with the base model now riding on a set of alloy rims. The Convenience package, which was previously optional on the SEL, now becomes standard on that trim level. It includes blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and a sliding armrest.
PROS Excellent value, surprising passenger space, many standard driver assists.
CONS Apathetic highway acceleration, busy highway behavior, missing some desirable options.
The 2021 Hyundai Venue's #4 ranking is based on its score within the Subcompact SUVs category. It is a finalist for our 2021 Best Subcompact SUV for the Money award. Currently the Hyundai Venue has a score of 7.8 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 23 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Easy to maneuver in tight spaces Good gas mileage Easy-to-use infotainment technology
Cons Small cargo capacity Engine feels lethargic at times
