Hyundai sets it sights on small businesses

The light commercial segment is evolving with fewer small bakkies and more compact hatchbacks with some practical modifications. Hyundai has added Venue Cargo to its range, and we spent the day with Hyundai South Africa to learn more. The little newcomer will offer additional space and security for businesses that require a frugal transporter. However, you should not expect a lack of comfort and safety features with the Korean car. 

Related: Hyundai launches the Venue Cargo in South Africa

But before we get into the details, remember that you can sell your current transporter quickly and easily on our website here. You can also search for new or used Hyundai Venue models on AutoTrader here.

Hyundai Cargo range

With the recent discontinuation of the Nissan NP200, choices for small frugal transporters for businesses are scarce. However, Hyundai offers a few solutions at different price points and sizes. For customers in the Medium Commercial Vehicle segment, the Korean automaker offers the EX8 Mighty truck. Then, for those looking for a panel van or a flatbed, there are the Staria Panel Van and H-100 ranges.

But what about small businesses that don't require as much loading space and need a frugal and comfortable car that wants its cargo to be secure? For this, Hyundai has developed two models, the Grand i10 Cargo and Venue Cargo. Let us tell you a little more about the range here.

Hyundai Grand i10 Cargo

The Hyundai Grand i10 is well-known for its frugal operation and affordable price point. Both are attractive attributes for small businesses that require a fleet of practical cargo carriers. Well, Hyundai has created a great solution in the form of the Grand i10 Cargo. In essence, Hyundai has partnered with a local supplier and now converted the rear of the Grand i10 to offer a flat metal floor as well as steel grids that can be found behind every window to the rear of the car, as well as a larger piece separating the front and rear of the cabin.

This provides a business or owner with a 1 150 mm deep, 1 050 mm wide, and 872 mm tall (1 210 litres) luggage compartment with a payload of 488 kg. Except for the rear of the Grand i10 Cargo, not much has changed, which means that both front occupants benefit from the manual air conditioner, sound system, and 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

The Grand i10's familiar 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol motor delivers 49kW and 94Nm of torque to the 5-speed manual transmission. However, those considering this model will also be happy to note that Hyundai intends to add an automatic derivative to the lineup towards the end of the year.  

Hyundai Venue Cargo

Upon first glance, you would think it is just a normal Hyundai Venue, but then you spend more time looking, and it quickly becomes apparent that it is built for a different purpose. Hiding behind the tinted rear windows, you will notice steel mesh installed. These steel grids can be found behind every window to the car's rear and a larger piece separating the front and rear of the cabin. 

The steel mesh performs two duties: it protects the windows and occupants in the front of the vehicle from shifting cargo and keeps thieves at bay. But what does the mesh protect? Well, anything that will fit within a 1 200mm length, 1 200mm width, and 900mm height. Yes, the rear bench has been removed to create extra loading space, 1 296-litres. 

The flat floor also has hooks installed to keep cargo tide down. These Venue Cargo units are created locally from Hyundai Venue models in Premium guise. Thus, owners can expect the same comfort levels in the form of manual airconditioning, electrically adjustable side mirrors, electrically operated windows for driver and passenger, remote central locking, as well as an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functions.

In terms of power, the Venue Cargo is motivated by a 1.2-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine producing 61kW and 115Nm of torque. This is both enough to carry cargo in the rear and frugal enough to return a claimed average fuel consumption figure of 6.5 L/100 km, perfect for keeping operational costs down. With the Venue Cargo, customers should only expect a 5-speed manual gearbox. 

Hyundai Grand i10 Cargo and Venue Cargo Price

The price of a Hyundai Grand i10 Cargo and Hyundai Venue Cargo includes a 7-year / 200 000 km warranty and 7-year / 150 000 km roadside assistance. The Hyundai Grand i10 Cargo also benefits from a 1-year / 15 000 km service plan, while the Venue Cargo comes with a 3-year / 45 000 km service plan. 

*The pricing and included products were correct when writing this article; however, they can change anytime and without notice.