2022 Hyundai Venue

From low-cost sedans to three-row EV SUVs, Hyundai has a model for almost every kind of customer. Most new Hyundai vehicles are stylish, functional, and competitively priced, but the brand overall ranks around the middle in Consumer Reports’ Reliability and Owner Satisfaction ratings. Individual models and years vary widely, with some standouts and a few laggards. The core Hyundai lineup includes low-cost subcompacts like the Elantra, and midsized sedans like the Sonata. SUVs include the subcompact Kona and compact Tucson, plus the midsize Santa Fe and larger Palisade, both of which offer three-row seating. Many models are available as hybrids or plug-in hybrids. In our testing, most Hyundai models benefit from a hybrid drivetrain, which adds power and smoothness in addition to improving fuel economy. Hyundai’s EVs are some of the best values among electric cars. The Ioniq models are high-tech, well designed, and can charge quite rapidly at public DC fast charging stations.

The new for 2020 Venue has a boxy, SUV-like shape that makes it feel roomier than one might think. It fits beneath the Kona in the Hyundai lineup, and competes with the Nissan Kicks. All-wheel drive is not offered. As is the case with other subcompacts, the Venue's 121-hp, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine is not tremendously powerful, the ride is stiff and choppy, and the cabin is noisy. Handling is nimble and the car is extremely easy to park and maneuver. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility come standard, as does an 8-inch touch screen. Heated front-seats are optional, and buyers can opt for a white roof. The Venue touts a long list of standard advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane keeping assistance. Blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning are optional. For 2021, the manual transmission was dropped.