2024 Hyundai Venue vs. 2024 Ford EcoSport

Choosing the right compact SUV can be a challenge, especially with strong contenders like the 2024 Hyundai Venue vs. 2024 Ford EcoSport. Both offer a blend of practicality, efficiency, and style in a city-friendly size. In this blog, we will explain their strengths and weaknesses in greater detail to help you make an informed decision.

Size and Design

Dimensionally, the Venue and EcoSport are practically neck-and-neck. The Hyundai vehicle measures a shade under 157 inches long, while the EcoSport stretches just a hair over that. Both prioritize maneuverability in tight city streets and parking lots. However, the Venue boasts a more modern, sculpted design with a cascading grille and swept-back headlights. The EcoSport retains a boxier, traditional SUV look with a more upright stance and prominent wheel arches.

Interior Comfort and Features

Stepping inside, the Venue takes the lead with a more spacious cabin, especially for rear passengers. Even taller adults will find decent headroom and legroom in the back. The EcoSport's cabin, while functional, feels a touch tighter, particularly for rear passengers. Material quality also leans towards the Venue, with a more upscale feel compared to the EcoSport's slightly utilitarian interior plastics. Both offer cloth upholstery in base trims, with higher trims offering leatherette options.

Technology-wise, the Venue comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The system is user-friendly and responsive, offering features like voice recognition and a six-speaker audio system. The EcoSport offers a smaller 4.2-inch screen on the base trim, which can feel cramped for modern smartphone users. An optional 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility is available on higher trims.

Powertrain and Performance

Under the hood, the Venue employs a 1.6L four-cylinder engine generating 121 horsepower. While not a powerhouse, it delivers adequate pep for city driving and errands. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) handles shifting duties, prioritizing smooth acceleration over sporty thrills. The EcoSport boasts a larger 2.0L four-cylinder engine with 166 horsepower, offering a more spirited driving experience. This engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, providing a more familiar driving feel compared to a CVT. However, both prioritize fuel efficiency, achieving ratings in the mid-20s mpg range. Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard on both SUVs, with all-wheel drive (AWD) unavailable on the Venue. This might be a dealbreaker for some drivers in snowy or off-road conditions.

Safety

The 2024 Hyundai Venue comes standard with a suite of driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning. This comprehensive safety package provides peace of mind for daily commutes. The EcoSport requires these features as part of an optional package on lower trims. Both SUVs received a 4-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Price and Value

The Hyundai Venue starts at a lower price point than the Ford EcoSport. The base SE trim starts around $19,000, offering a generous list of standard features. Higher trims like the SEL and Limited add amenities like a sunroof, heated seats, and a premium sound system. The Ford EcoSport starts slightly higher at around $21,000 for the base S trim, which comes with a smaller infotainment screen and fewer standard features. Higher trims like the SE and Titanium offer more equipment, but the price can climb into the low-to-mid $20,000 range.

The Final Verdict

The choice between the 2024 Hyundai Venue vs. 2024 Ford EcoSport boils down to your priorities. If you value a spacious interior, modern design, and a long list of standard features at a competitive price, the Venue is a compelling option. Whichever you choose, you'll be getting a capable and efficient compact SUV that's well-suited for city driving and everyday adventures.