Namaste, fellow car enthusiasts and prospective buyers! Deciding on your next car is a big moment, isn't it? You are probably weighing in on so many things: how much it will cost you initially, its long-term reliability, the safety it offers your family, those must-have latest features, and of course, the peace of mind that comes with good company service and maintenance. In a market flooded with choices, finding the perfect match can feel like a quest. But fear not, because today we are taking a deep dive into a model that aims to check many of these boxes for Indian families: the new Hyundai Venue HX 10 Diesel AT Dual Tone. Let us explore if this compact SUV has what it takes to be your next driveway companion!

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

• Engine Type: 1.5L U2 CRDi Diesel engine
• Maximum Power: 116 PS at 4,000 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 250 Nm between 1,500 - 2,750 rpm
• Transmission: 6-speed Automatic (Torque Converter)
• Fuel Efficiency (ARAI): Expect around 23.4 kmpl, though real-world figures vary.

Design Overview

Exterior: The Venue HX 10 Diesel AT Dual Tone truly stands out with its modern, bold presence. It carries Hyundai's signature 'Sensuous Sportiness' design language. You get a broad, dark chrome grille, split headlamp design with LED DRLs, and stylish LED tail lamps. The 'Dual Tone' aspect means you get a contrasting roof colour (often black) that enhances its sporty appeal and gives it a premium look, making heads turn on city streets and highways alike. Diamond-cut alloy wheels further add to its sophisticated stance.

Interior: Step inside, and you are greeted with a well-laid-out, premium cabin. The dual-tone interior theme (often black and beige or black and grey) complements the exterior, creating an airy and inviting atmosphere. Quality materials are used throughout, giving a comfortable and upmarket feel. The digital instrument cluster and a large touchscreen infotainment system dominate the dashboard, providing a high-tech vibe.

Key Features

• 8-inch Touchscreen Infotainment System with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Hyundai Bluelink Connected Car Technology (with voice commands)
• Electric Sunroof
• Automatic Climate Control
• Wireless Phone Charging
• Paddleshifters for the Automatic Transmission
• Cruise Control
• Rear AC Vents
• Push Start/Stop Button
• LED Projector Headlamps and Cornering Lamps
• Digital Instrument Cluster
• Rear Parking Camera with Dynamic Guidelines and Sensors

Ground Clearance

• 195 mm - Adequate for navigating Indian road conditions and mild off-roading.

Boot Space

• 350 Litres - Generous enough for weekend getaways or regular grocery runs.

Dimensions

• Length: 3,995 mm
• Width: 1,770 mm
• Height: 1,617 mm (with roof rails)
• Wheelbase: 2,500 mm

Powertrain Options (Beyond Diesel AT)

While our focus is the Diesel AT, it is good to know the Hyundai Venue offers a range of engine and transmission choices to suit different preferences, including:

• 1.2L naturally-aspirated Petrol engine with a 5-speed Manual Transmission.
• 1.0L Turbo GDi Petrol engine with a 6-speed Manual, 6-speed iMT (intelligent Manual Transmission), or 7-speed DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission).

Safety Features

• Up to 6 Airbags (Driver, Passenger, Side, Curtain)
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)
• Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC)
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
• Parking Sensors (Front & Rear)

NCAP Rating Table

Safety is paramount, and here's how the Hyundai Venue has performed in crash tests:

Note: The Global NCAP rating is for the earlier version of the Hyundai Venue. We expect an updated rating for the facelifted model, especially with the introduction of Bharat NCAP standards.

Rivals of Hyundai Venue HX 10 Diesel AT Dual Tone

The sub-compact SUV segment is a hotbed of competition. The Hyundai Venue HX 10 Diesel AT Dual Tone faces tough rivalry from:

• Kia Sonet
• Tata Nexon
• Maruti Suzuki Brezza
• Mahindra XUV300
• Nissan Magnite
• Renault Kiger

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Advantages (Pros)

• Smooth Diesel Automatic: The 1.5L diesel engine paired with the 6-speed automatic transmission offers excellent drivability in city traffic and comfortable cruising on highways. No more clutch fatigue!
• Feature-Rich Cabin: Hyundai has packed the HX 10 with a host of segment-leading features, enhancing convenience, comfort, and entertainment for all occupants.
• Stylish Design: The bold exterior and dual-tone finish, coupled with a modern interior, give the Venue a strong road presence and a premium feel.
• Fuel Efficiency: Diesel engines are inherently more fuel-efficient, and the Venue's unit is no exception, helping keep running costs in check.
• Hyundai's Service Network: With Hyundai's extensive service network and reputation for reliability, owning a Venue brings peace of mind.
• Compact SUV Appeal: Its compact dimensions make it easy to maneuver in urban settings, while the SUV stance provides a commanding view of the road.

Disadvantages (Cons)

• Rear Seat Space: While adequate for four adults, fitting three abreast in the rear can be a bit tight for longer journeys, a common trait in this segment.
• NCAP Rating: The 3-star Global NCAP rating for the pre-facelift model might be a concern for some buyers looking for the absolute highest safety scores. We await an improved rating.
• Price Point: Being a top-end diesel automatic dual-tone variant, it sits at a premium price point within the segment, which might stretch some budgets.
• Diesel AT Availability: While it's a boon, some competitors offer more transmission choices with their diesel engines.

Conclusion

The Hyundai Venue HX 10 Diesel AT Dual Tone is a compelling package for anyone looking for a stylish, feature-loaded, and convenient compact SUV. It excels in offering a smooth, fuel-efficient diesel automatic powertrain, making daily commutes and highway drives a breeze. Its modern design, premium interior, and long list of features provide a comfortable and engaging experience. While rear space and the current NCAP rating (for the older model) are points to consider, the Venue's overall value proposition, backed by Hyundai's strong brand reputation and service, makes it a formidable contender. If you are in the market for a premium diesel automatic SUV that offers a blend of performance, style, and practicality for your family in India, the Venue HX 10 Diesel AT Dual Tone certainly deserves a closer look and a test drive. Happy car hunting!