Stand Out Crowd

Sure, the Hyundai Venue looks impressive, but can it really shake up the fiercely competitive compact SUV segment?

- Abhishek Chaliha

I’m assuming you just read through my first drive impressions of the Hyundai Venue on the previous few pages. That being the case, you’ll know that it has all the makings of another Hyundai blockbuster. But the question we’re asking here is, how does it hold up against the competition? So, we’ve assembled the ranks to bring you a thoroughly comprehensive comparison report.

There is one small problem though. You see, we did a similar compact crossover comparo a few months ago – they continue to sell like hot cakes after all – and the Ford Ecosport prevailed in that test. But, in this instance, Ford was unable (or unwilling?) to provide us with an Ecosport – so we’ll just have to do without it.

Snazzy, at first glance

It’s impossible not to notice that the Hyundai Venue truly looks more modern than all of its rivals right from the first glance. With its squarish bumper-mounted projector headlamps and surrounding DRLs, to the massive hexagonal grill, snazzy alloy wheels and that unmistakeable Hyundai Creta-like silhouette, this is a car that you simply can’t overlook on the road.

And that’s really a good thing, for design is critical in this segment – perhaps more so than others because it’s such an aspirational (and crowded) segment. Owners want their car to look butch and intimidating on the road, but also unique and modern at the same time – a fine line to walk for the designers. As a result, all the manufacturers have now begun to offer their compact SUVs with dual-tone paint schemes, and even various customisation options.