2022 Hyundai Kona vs Venue

It's the battle of the two modern SUVs in the 2022 Hyundai Kona and the 2022 Hyundai Venue. Although these models are similar in size, their layout and designs couldn't be more different. One has a professional and contemporary look, while the other is innovative and modern. Both are representative of the future of SUVs in their own unique way. Yet, you can't choose both. So, how can you decide between the 2022 Hyundai Kona and the 2022 Hyundai Venue?

First of all, you've got to decide which look you prefer. A sport-enthusiast or gen Z buyer would appreciate the futuristic aesthetic of the 2022 Hyundai Kona. Yet, the busy parent or the corporate professional would likely enjoy the seamless design and attention to detail the 2022 Hyundai Venue possesses. That isn't to say that any type of buyer can't fall in love with either of these models, though. With all the advanced safety features, intuitive technology, and striking design elements, it's easy to see why one could enjoy either of these SUV models.

Why would you choose either of these SUV models over all the other rivals that are available? Many buyers enjoy the reliability and durability that Hyundai vehicles are known for, which continues on in the reputation of the 2022 Hyundai Kona and the 2022 Hyundai Venue. Aside from this aspect, the Hyundai Kona and the Hyundai Venue also incorporate ample space within their cabin for passengers and cargo, they are affordable, and they are quite powerful for their small size.

One of the biggest benefits of the 2022 Hyundai Venue and the 2022 Hyundai Kona lies within their size. Both are considered as subcompact SUVs, which means you can get the storage space of an SUV with the fuel economy of a sedan. This makes them perfect for daily city driving or road tripping. As you can see, these models are both well-rounded, which is one of the reasons why they are so popular among buyers.

Size and Styling

The 2022 Hyundai Venue and the 2022 Hyundai Kona are quite similar in size, despite their obvious styling differences. Both are considered to be subcompact SUVs, which combine the agility and fuel economy of smaller vehicles with the expanded amenities often offered by larger vehicle types. Although these vehicles maintain the same status, the 2022 Hyundai Kona is larger than the 2022 Hyundai Venue in almost every area. Let's take a closer look at what areas the Hyundai Kona excels in compared to the Hyundai Venue.

To begin with, the wheelbase of the 2022 Hyundai Kona spans over 102.4 inches in comparison to the 2022 Hyundai Venue's wheelbase of just 99.2 inches. So, what does this mean? Well, it gives the Hyundai Kona more length to work with at 165.6 inches, while the Hyundai Venue falls just short of that with its length of 159.1 inches. These specifications translate to leg room in the 2022 Hyundai Kona than in the 2022 Hyundai Venue.

However, the Hyundai Kona doesn't excel in every single area. In fact, 2022 Hyundai Venue is able to offer more headroom. Even just an inch more makes a difference for taller passengers, which is where the 2022 Hyundai Venue edges over the 2022 Hyundai Kona. The Venue offers more headroom in the front, while the Kona had more headroom to offer in the rear.

Cargo space is also an area you'll want to consider between the 2022 Hyundai Venue and the 2022 Hyundai Kona, especially if you have a larger family or plan on traveling frequently. With the rear seats folded down, the 2022 Hyundai Kona offers 45.8 cubic feet of cargo space. Comparatively, the 2022 Hyundai Venue only has 31.9 cubic feet of storage space with a similar configuration. So, if it's more cargo space you're in need of, the 2022 Hyundai Kona excels in this area.

Drivability

If you needed yet another reason for the 2022 Hyundai Venue and the 2022 Hyundai Kona to completely set themselves apart from one another, just take a look under the hood of each model. Again, the 2022 Hyundai Kona has more performance options and powertrain variations than its 2022 Hyundai Venue sibling. In fact, the 2022 Hyundai Venue has just one engine option, which is a signature Smartstream 1.6-liter DPI four-cylinder engine that can put out 121 horsepower and 113 lb.-ft. of torque. It's paired with a similar Smartstream Intelligent Variable Transmission, or IVT, as well.

To compare, the 2022 Hyundai Kona offers a choice between two powertrain options consisting of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder Atkinson engine or a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with direct injection for higher Kona trim levels. The first engine option produces 147 horsepower and produces 132 lb.-ft. of torque, while the second engine option produces 195 horsepower and puts out 195 lb.-ft. of torque. In the 2.0-liter engine, you'll find a pairing to another Smartstream IVT, but the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine upgrades to a 7-speed EcoShift dual-clutch transmission.

In the 2022 Hyundai Venue, you'll also have additional performance options that allow you to customize your ride. If you select an SEL trim or higher, you'll be able to use a Drive Mode selector, which provides three available drive modes. Normal mode is great for daily driving, while Sport mode provides some extra traction and Snow mode helps power through challenging road conditions.

Alongside the powertrain differences of the Hyundai Kona and the Hyundai Venue, we'll also want to consider the fuel economy of each of these subcompact SUVs. Whether you plan on commuting in these SUVs daily or using them on road trips, the fuel efficiency of each model will make an impact on any buyer's pocketbook. The Hyundai Venue has a straightforward fuel economy of 31 combined MPG, while the Hyundai Kona varies depending on the associated drivetrain. In the 2022 Hyundai Kona, you'll get 32 combined MPG for a front-wheel-drive model or 30 combined MPG for an all-wheel drive model.

Comfort, Options and Performance

The amenities found in entry-level SUV models set the tone for what you can expect from higher trims. In the 2022 Hyundai Venue, there is much to be desired. This SUV includes only basic features and amenities in its lowest trim, while the base model of the 2022 Hyundai Kona offers a larger touchscreen or Harman Kardon audio system right from the start. Standard interior inclusions in the 2022 Hyundai Venue consist of an 8.0-inch touchscreen paired with AM/FM radio and available Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. A four-speaker audio system is included on the base trim, which is upgraded to a six-speaker system on higher trim levels.

Comparatively, the 2022 Hyundai Kona boasts a six-speaker audio system right from the start. A rival 8.0-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also included. In higher trims, access to SiriusXM, a Blue Link Connected Car System, and HD Radio makes their appearance. A larger 10.25-inch touchscreen is also available in the highest Kona trim, as well as Onboard Navigation and Traffic Flow via HD radio integration.

It is obvious that the 2022 Hyundai Kona has way more to offer in the tech arena than its relative 2022 Hyundai Venue. It also has a secondary touchscreen size option, whereas the Hyundai Venue has a sole 8.0-inch touchscreen layout that doesn't get more advanced no matter which trim you opt for.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona further distinguishes itself from the 2022 Hyundai Venue in the areas of comfort and convenience. The Venue only offers a 6-way power-adjustable front driver's seat across all trims, while you have options all the way up to an 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat with power lumbar support in the 2022 Hyundai Kona. The Kona also offers sophisticated leather-trimmed seats in its higher trims, while the Hyundai Venue doesn't offer a leather option. However, the Venue does make heated front seats and side view mirrors available.
Quality of materials? Value vs Luxury? Are certain options or high-tech available on one and not the other?

Safety

Safety features are important in any model, especially in the Kona and Venue where you can expect to spend an ample amount of time with multiple passengers. Again, the 2022 Hyundai Kona appears to be more advanced in this area, as well. Don't be fooled, though, as the advanced safety features on each of these SUV models are quite impressive. The 2022 Hyundai Venue offers a combination of four basic safety features, while adding in Forward Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection + Cyclist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, and Rear Cross-Traffic Warning in higher trims.

In comparison, the 2022 Hyundai Kona offers similar standard features but adds in Driver Attention Warning and a Rear Occupant Alert. In higher Kona trims, you'll also find three extra safety features including Safe Exit Warning. At the top tier of the 2022 Hyundai Kona model lineup, Parking Distance Warning-Reverse and High Beam Assist also make their appearance.

While each of these Hyundai SUV options are commendable in their safety attributes, the 2022 Hyundai Kona simply has more to offer. It gets significantly more outfitted with safety amenities in its higher trim levels, too.

Which Model to Choose?

To conclude, the 2022 Hyundai Venue and the 2022 Hyundai Kona are both good options for a new SUV purchase. They are both renowned for their reliability, comfort, and affordability. Yet, there are several ways in which these two subcompact SUVs stand out from one another.

Overall, the 2022 Hyundai Kona is more outfitted with technology amenities, safety features, and powertrain options. It is more versatile and comfortable, but that does come at a cost. The MSRP of the Hyundai Kona is generally a bit higher than that of the Hyundai Venue. It also has reduced fuel economy compared to the Hyundai Venue and less space for passengers in a few areas. Overall, though, the Hyundai Kona has more room for cargo and is simply more powerful than the Hyundai Venue.

However, if you're in search of a more economical SUV option, then the 2022 Hyundai Venue would suffice. Its lack of advanced features and upscale selections makes it much more affordable. However, that means you may have to sacrifice on comfort a bit. Yet, you'll get better fuel economy in the 2022 Hyundai Venue thanks to its fuss-free, single powertrain option.

The choice between a 2022 Hyundai Venue or a 2022 Hyundai Kona is a personal one that is derived from the values and features you find to be most useful in a modern SUV. Take a look at the comparison above to see exactly where each of these models differ and determine how important that feature is to you and your driving regimen. Only then can you decide if the 2022 Hyundai Kona or the 2022 Hyundai Venue is a better subcompact SUV option.