2022 Hyundai Venue facelift review, first drive - still the compact SUV benchmark?

The Venue compact SUV is one of Hyundai's largest selling models in India and strangely enough second only to the Creta. It's a bit odd, isn't it? The more mass-market SUV having lesser appeal than its larger sibling. Yet, the Hyundai Venue operates in a fairly crowded space, competing for consumer mindset against more than half a dozen other big nameplates. Whereas with the Hyundai Creta, it's either that or the Kia Seltos. So, the Venue has a fairly tough task ahead of it. Recently the Venue, which was the segment leader, has been taking a hit from the Tata Nexon, eventually losing its status as the top-selling SUV in the country. How do you get that position back? Either bring out an all-new product or significantly upgrade the existing one. The all-new Hyundai Venue is still some time away, so the only option left was to update the existing one.

2022 Hyundai Venue facelift exterior changes

The changes to the 2022 Hyundai Venue facelift then are immense, without altering the powertrain or any major moving parts in the original design. Largely cosmetic with comfort and convenience feature enhancements, the Venue appears significantly refreshed. The biggest visual revision is the front grille, the cascading block pattern forming the grille is synonymous with what we have seen on the Alcazar, though a closer examination will show larger blocks tightly placed with narrower gaps in between them. This makes it look meatier, aesthetically more pleasing, and therefore more attention-grabbing. It is also complemented by the brow-shaped turn indicator lamps, flanking the grille on either side.

The rest of the form stays the same, and the only other visual differentiator is the rear light strip running from one tail lamp to the other forming a stylized letter H and the bumper design. Connecting the two lamps at the rear brings another key form factor into play, it visually makes the Venue appear wider than it is. The dimensions haven't changed, but that one design element makes a world of difference to this SUV. A new alloy wheel pattern which in my opinion is way too cool for this SUV, adds a sharper layer to the whole package.

2022 Hyundai Venue facelift interior changes, new features

Inside the cabin, subtle colour changes to the dashboard, and a brighter upholstery add volume to the Hyundai Venue's interior space. You certainly don't feel the compactness of this package. Nothing much has changed where design and layout are concerned. However, you do get a new UI on the 8-inch touchscreen. It has clearer icons and is simpler to use. It also adds multiple language assistance which makes it very handy for consumers across the country. The steering wheel is also new and the butterfly winged effect looks appealing.

What I do like is that while the new connected technology adds in some 60+ features, there are still a lot of physical buttons on the dashboard which makes it simpler to control various functions. Staying away from diverting most functions to the touch screen makes the entire driving experience safer in my opinion. The driver's seat also gets 4-way electronic adjustment now, though these could have been more pronounced buttons and more conveniently placed. One significant addition is a very simple but highly effective feature; the two-stage reclinable rear seat. Mechanically adjustable using the backrest fold-down handle, this gives you a more relaxing posture ideal for long drives or if you just want to lay back.

2022 Hyundai Venue facelift engines, specifications

On the powertrain front, nothing has changed, the 2022 Hyundai Venue comes powered by a choice of three engines. The Kappa 1.2-litre petrol delivering 83PS with 113.8Nm of torque is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. Then there's the 1.5-litre diesel delivering 100Ps of max power with 240Nm of torques. This comes matched to a 6-speed manual transmission alone.

Finally, there's the range-topping 1-litre petrol with the highest 120PS max power in the range, and 172Nm of max torque. This engine has a choice of two gearboxes, the iMT (intelligent manual transmission) or the 7-speed dual-clutch. The latter also gets the multiple drive modes selector, with normal, eco and sport drive modes to enhance the driving experience.

2022 Hyundai Venue facelift driving impressions

I drove both the transmissions and my recommendations lie with the DCT. The iMT isn't a quick-shifting box and if you are in the mind space for some spirited driving it can let you down. For all other conditions, it's a very smooth, and highly effective transmission though I will continue to maintain my stance about it being a bit of a confusing transmission to operate. I often found myself trying to drive off after crossing over a speed breaker or at an intersection in high gear. The warning buzzer is quite inaudible even at conversational volumes, and this leaves you wondering why the car feels sluggish at times. It is not, you just have to drop gears and get into the right one to get moving. The DCT on the other hand is perfect. No fuss, quick shifts, and smooth, its only limitations are the lower fuel efficiency it brings to the table.

On all other parameters, ride, handling, and braking the Venue is a well-sorted out package. The ride quality especially is comfortable, and just right for urban conditions. Push the Venue a bit hard and you sense the boundaries closing in quite quickly. That's alright because this SUV is meant for urban mobility and not mountain corner carving. Drive the Venue sedately and it is most rewarding.

2022 Hyundai Venue facelift verdict, prices

The Hyundai Venue then continues to be the benchmark package for the segment, and from what we know there is an N-Line variant coming soon which will turn the dial to hot. Hyundai is doing much to get back into the commanding position it enjoyed for so long in this segment, and if creature comforts are your thing, you can certainly help them get there. Prices for the 2022 Hyundai Venue start from Rs 7.53 lakh for the 1.2-litre N/A petrol and Rs 9.99 lakh for the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol and 1.5-litre diesel.

Text: @bertdsouza14
Images: @anis.shaikh.media

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