The local subcompact crossover battle is really heating up.
Hyundai Philippines has just launched the Venue in the local market, unveiling the vehicle just a little over the week after Kia Philippines introduced its own competitor in the form of the Stonic. These two new arrivals present a very intriguing matchup considering both top out at under P1 million.
Locally, the Hyundai Venue is being sold in two variants. Check out the prices below:
2020 Hyundai Venue
- Hyundai Venue 1.6 GL 6AT – P915,000
- Hyundai Venue 1.6 GLS 6AT - P985,000
Both variants are powered by the same engine: a Gamma 1.6-liter MPI gasoline mill capable of 121hp at 6,300rpm and up to 151Nm of torque at 4,850rpm. Mated to the engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, and power is put to the ground by a two-wheel drivetrain. There’s also a neat drive mode and traction control selector, so owners can optimize the vehicle’s driving dynamics based on the type of performance they need.
The top-spec Venue 1.6 GLS 6AT variant runs on 17-inch alloy wheels and gets exterior niceties like roof rails and a chrome grille. The base 1.6 GL variant, meanwhile, is noticeably less flashy with its smaller 15-inch wheels and a plain black grille. Both, however, flaunt a very compact form factor and modern styling.
Inside, you’re looking at mostly dark plastic. The minimalist interior approach is attractive, though, and all units come equipped with an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment setup with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Four color options are available at launch: Denim Blue, Lava Orange, Cosmic Gray, Polar White, and Phantom Black. Unfortunately, it doesn’t appear like any two-tone finishes we’ve seen offered in other markets are currently available for the local version of the crossover.
The Venue is a pretty interesting proposition given at its price. Actually, considering the current economic climate, under P1 million could potentially be the sweet spot for budget-minded car buyers. Will you be checking this out at a dealership any time soon?
