Nissan versa vs. hyundai venue: the affordable compact car showdown

In the competitive realm of subcompact crossover SUVs, the Nissan Versa and Hyundai Venue stand out as formidable contenders. Both vehicles offer a blend of practicality, efficiency, and affordability, catering to the needs of urban commuters and budget-conscious buyers. This comprehensive comparison aims to shed light on the key differences between the Nissan Versa and Hyundai Venue, empowering you to make an informed decision when choosing your next compact SUV.

Exterior Design

The Nissan Versa exudes a sleek and modern aesthetic, featuring sharp lines and a sporty stance. Its V-Motion grille and boomerang-shaped headlights create a bold and distinctive presence. In contrast, the Hyundai Venue embraces a rugged and adventurous design with its upright grille, skid plates, and roof rails. Its boxy silhouette and contrasting accents lend it a more rugged and utilitarian appeal.

Interior Space and Comfort

Both the Versa and Venue offer spacious interiors for their size. The Versa provides ample headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers, while its 14.3 cubic feet of cargo space is sufficient for everyday errands. The Venue, on the other hand, boasts a more generous 18.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down, making it better suited for hauling larger items.

Engine and Performance

Under the hood, the Nissan Versa is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that delivers smooth and efficient shifts. The Hyundai Venue, on the other hand, offers a more powerful 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 121 horsepower and 113 lb-ft of torque. Its CVT provides a similar driving experience to the Versa, but with slightly better acceleration.

Fuel Economy

Fuel efficiency is a key consideration for subcompact SUVs. The Nissan Versa shines in this regard, delivering an impressive 32 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. The Hyundai Venue lags slightly behind with 30 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. However, both vehicles offer competitive fuel economy ratings for their class.

Technology and Safety Features

The Nissan Versa and Hyundai Venue come equipped with a range of technology and safety features. The Versa features a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It also comes standard with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning. The Venue offers a larger 8-inch touchscreen with similar connectivity options. It also boasts a more comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist.

Price and Value

The Nissan Versa offers a starting price of $14,670, while the Hyundai Venue starts at $17,350. The Versa represents a more affordable option, particularly for budget-conscious buyers. However, the Venue offers a more comprehensive set of features and a more powerful engine, justifying its slightly higher price point.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Subcompact SUV for You

Ultimately, the choice between the Nissan Versa and Hyundai Venue depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel economy, affordability, and a spacious interior, the Versa is an excellent option. If you’re looking for a more rugged and feature-rich SUV with a more powerful engine, the Venue is a solid choice. Both vehicles offer compelling value propositions in the subcompact SUV segment, and the best decision for you will depend on your specific requirements and priorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Which vehicle has the better fuel economy?
A: The Nissan Versa has better fuel economy than the Hyundai Venue, with 32 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway compared to 30 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway for the Venue.

Q2: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Hyundai Venue has a more powerful engine than the Nissan Versa, with 121 horsepower and 113 lb-ft of torque compared to 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque for the Versa.

Q3: Which vehicle has a larger cargo capacity?
A: The Hyundai Venue has a larger cargo capacity than the Nissan Versa, with 18.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down compared to 14.3 cubic feet for the Versa.

Q4: Which vehicle has more advanced safety features?
A: The Hyundai Venue has more advanced safety features than the Nissan Versa, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist.

Q5: Which vehicle is more affordable?
A: The Nissan Versa is more affordable than the Hyundai Venue, with a starting price of $14,670 compared to $17,350 for the Venue.