Compact crossover challenge
Compact crossovers, often called compact SUVs, are a hugely popular segment in the automotive market. They blend the practicality and higher driving position of an SUV with a sedan's more car-like handling, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
Related: Hyundai Venue 1.0T N Line (2022) Review
Compact crossovers are a popular choice for individuals and families who desire a versatile, comfortable, and efficient vehicle for urban commutes and weekend adventures. The Hyundai Venue and Volkswagen T-Cross are two popular models, but how do they compare?
Volkswagen T-Cross 1.0TSI 85kW Comfortline R-Line (2023) Review
Powertrain
| Hyundai Venue 1.0T N Line | Volkswagen T-Cross 1.0TSI R-Line | |
| Engine | 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbo petrol | 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbo petrol |
| Transmission | 7-Speed DCT (dual-clutch) | 7-Speed DCT (dual-clutch) |
| Power figures | 88kW / 172Nm | 85kW / 200Nm |
| Top Speed | 180km/h | 193km/h |
| Drive | FWD | FWD |
| Paddle Shift | No | Yes |
Both vehicles sport 1.0-litre turbo petrol engines and 7-speed DCT transmissions, but the Volkswagen produces slightly more power than the Hyundai.
Fuel efficiency
| Hyundai Venue 1.0T N Line | Volkswagen T-Cross 1.0TSI R-Line | |
| Claimed fuel economy | 6.9 L/100km | 5.6 L/100km |
| Actual fuel economy | 8.5 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel tank size (litres) | 45 | 40 |
| Distance on a tank | 652km | 714km |
Practicality
| Hyundai Venue 1.0T N Line | Volkswagen T-Cross 1.0TSI R-Line | |
| Boot size (litres) | 343 | 385l-455-1281 |
| Towing capacity | 500kg unbraked / 1100kg braked | 660kg unbraked / 1200kg braked |
| Seating | 5 adults , leatherette | 5 adults, cloth upholstery, heated front seats |
The Hyundai Venue falls slightly short of the T Cross, having a lower towing rating.
Safety
| Hyundai Venue 1.0T N Line | Volkswagen T-Cross 1.0TSI R-Line | |
| ABS | Yes | Yes |
| Traction Control | No | Yes |
| Stability Control | Yes | Yes |
| NCAP Rating | 4 Star | 5 Star |
| Airbags | 6 | 6 |
| Cruise control | Standard | Yes (Opt Adaptive) |
| LED lighting | Yes | Matrix LED |
| Land Departure Warning | No | Yes |
| Heads Up Display | No | No |
| Hill Hold Assist | No | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring | No | Yes |
| Camera | Rear only | Rear view only |
| PDC (Park Distance Control) | Rear only | Front and Rear |
The T Cross sports a few more standard features than the Hyundai Venue.
Price and warranty
| Hyundai Venue 1.0T N Line | Volkswagen T-Cross 1.0TSI R-Line | |
| Price | R 499 900 | R 543 800 |
| Warranty | 5-year vehicle / 7-year drivetrain, 150 000 km vehicle / 200 000 km drivetrain | 3-Year / 120 000 km |
| Service Plan | 3-Year / 45,000 km | 3-year / 45 000 km |
The Volkswagen T Cross is R40 000 more expensive due to a few more standard features not present in the Venue; however, the Hyundai has a better warranty.
Our Verdict
The Hyundai Venue and Volkswagen T-Cross balance each other fairly evenly. The T-Cross is more expensive, has slightly better standard equipment, and returns better fuel economy, while the Venue has a better warranty and leather upholstery. Either vehicle is excellent for a small family, and both have great driving dynamics. We highly recommend driving both to see which fits your lifestyle better.
