Hyundai Venue 2020: what we know so far

Hyundai will offer another destination for Australian buyers looking for a small SUV next month with the launch of its Venue crossover, which is poised to steal sales away from the segment-leading Mitsubishi ASX and Mazda CX-3.

But doesn’t Hyundai already have a small SUV in the form of the quirky Kona?

Measuring 4036mm long, 1770mm wide, 1565mm tall and with a 2520mm wheelbase, the Venue is smaller than its sibling in all dimensions, and will also be priced lower than the entry-level $23,500 before on-road costs Kona Go.

As such, the potentially three-variant Venue range is expected to open below $20,000 for the base grade that could, if Hyundai follows the same naming conventions, be dubbed Go.

More well-equipped versions at a higher price will also launch in Australia, with Australia Design Rule (ADR) documentation showing the base Venue will come with 15-inch wheels, while the top-tier variants will ride on 17-inch wheels.

All however, will be powered by a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 90kW/154Nm that drives the front wheels.

The bottom grade will also be paired to a six-speed manual gearbox, while the higher-spec Venues, possibly called Active and Elite, will gain a six-speed torque converter automatic transmission.

With a smaller footprint than its Kona sibling, the Venue can accommodate 903 litres of volume with its 60/40 split-fold rear seats stowed, but the cargo compartment floor can be adjusted to two levels.

Inside, occupants are also treated to a large floating 8.0-inch multimedia touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, as well as Bluetooth and USB connectivity.

Safety equipment will also be a high point for the Venue, with autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist, rear cross-traffic alert, reversing camera, blind-spot monitoring and drive attention alert all set to feature.

Personalisation is also expected to feature prominently, with options in overseas markets for two-tone roofs including a white alernative.

Expect to see full pricing and specification closer to the Hyundai Venue’s September launch.