Diesel Power – Hyundai Venue 1.5 Diesel AT
Hyundai continues to offer the diesel option for those who want it, albeit in a few limited trims. This time, there is the option of the automatic transmission as well—a much-needed choice. We drove the HX10 trim and came away impressed.
The 1.5-litre four-cylinder lump is modern and features advanced emission-control tech, including selective catalytic reduction (SCR) that negates oxides of nitrogen (NOx) from the exhaust stream, leading to pretty much just nitrogen and water vapour coming out of the tail-pipe. The torque from the turbo-diesel engine feels fuller and more widespread across the rev-range, like the classic thick pat of butter on the bun maska at your favourite café. It makes for more bottom-end grunt, allowing the car to trundle forward merely past idle revs. There is no sudden rush or clattering sound; refinement is improved as well.
The interior here features a two-tone white and grey theme with fabric upholstery on the seats and a white textured dashboard trim that feels like upcycled material. The ride quality is just as good, if not with an additional everyday charm thanks to more pliant damping and 16-inch wheels with 215/60 tyres. The claimed efficiency goes as high as 20 km/l, but I’m sure, given a long road trip, one could easily exceed that. With the smarter interior and equipment, added safety kit, and better comfort, it seems like a major step up for the Venue.
Need to Know – Hyundai Venue 1.5 Diesel HX10 AT
Price: Rs 15.51 lakh (ex-showroom)
Engine: 1493-cc, in-line four, turbo-diesel, direct-injection
Max Power: 116 hp @ 4000 rpm
Max Torque: 250 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm
Transmission: Six-speed, automatic, front-wheel drive
Suspension: MacPherson strut front, torsion beam rear
Weight: 1300 kg (estimated)
Story: Jim Gorde
Photography: Sanjay Raikar
Leave a Reply