2023 BMW X1 vs 2024 Hyundai Venue

The 2023 BMW X1 presented itself as a refined evolution of its predecessor, maintaining its recognizable X1 identity while enhancing its robustness and sophistication. The larger, squarer kidney grille was a subtle yet assertive update, and the flush door handles, standard LED headlights, and reimagined L-shaped taillights added to its modern appeal. The expanded colour palette, including vibrant options like Blue Bay Lagoon and Utah Orange, offered a refreshing change from the previous monochrome selections. Inside, the X1's cabin exuded a premium feel with its BMW Curved Display and clean, uncluttered design. The SensaTec 2.0 seat coverings and optional M Sport Package added a sporty touch, while the panoramic moonroof and sophisticated interior details contributed to an upscale atmosphere.

In contrast, the 2024 Hyundai Venue, available in Essential, Preferred, and Ultimate trims, offered a more subdued yet stylish design. The Ecotronic Grey paint on the test model lent a mature appearance to the compact hatchback. Despite its affordability, the Venue's design was appealing, with unexpected style elements like seat stripes and white dashboard trim. The interior, though featuring hard plastics, did not appear cheap, and the digital instrumentation and 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display were pleasant surprises. The Venue's thoughtful design and quality finishes made it a high-quality small SUV, appealing to those seeking style in an affordable package.

The 2023 BMW X1 boasted a significant power boost with its 2.0-litre twin-turbo four-cylinder engine, delivering 241 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. This increase allowed the X1 to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds and tow up to 1,587 kilograms. The new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission enhanced the driving experience, offering smooth shifts and engaging paddle shifters with the M Sport Package. The upgraded Adaptive M Suspension provided minimal body roll and a sense of agility, although the ride was slightly stiff. The X1's fuel economy was rated at 9.6 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 7.0 on the highway, with a combined rating of 8.4 litres per 100 kilometres.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue, equipped with a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine producing 121 horsepower and 113 pound-feet of torque, was more suited for city and suburban driving. Its lightweight design and continuously variable transmission allowed for nimble handling and easy parking. However, the Venue's suspension struggled on rough roads, resulting in a busy ride quality. On highways, the Venue could maintain speed but sounded strained under heavy acceleration. The Venue's fuel economy was rated at 7.5 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with an observed average of 7.8 litres per 100 kilometres during testing.

The 2023 BMW X1 offered impressive interior space, with headroom of 1,069 mm in the front and 998 mm in the rear, surpassing competitors like the Audi Q3 and Volvo XC40. Front-row legroom measured 1,026 mm, while the rear offered 939 mm. Cargo space was generous, with 727 litres behind the rear seats and 1,619 litres with them folded. Heated seats were optional, part of the Premium Essential Package, which also included a panoramic sunroof and wireless charging. The wireless charging pad was cleverly designed to secure the phone during spirited driving.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue's increased ground clearance made entry and exit easier, and the front seats offered manual height adjustment and tilt-and-telescopic steering. The back seat was best for two passengers, with limited storage and no air conditioning vents. Front storage was decent, with a useful dashboard shelf. Cargo space was 528 litres, expanding to 902 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 BMW X1 featured the BMW Curved Display with a 10.7-inch infotainment screen and a 10.25-inch driver information display. The system was responsive, with effective voice commands and seamless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The optional Digital Cockpit Professional added a head-up display and augmented reality navigation. The X1 included four USB-C ports and an optional 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. Keyless entry and a start/stop button were standard, with a toggle-style gear selector for driving modes.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue's 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display offered modern graphics and simple operation. Standard features included Bluetooth connectivity, wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and a six-speaker sound system. The Venue's infotainment system was user-friendly, though the sound system could benefit from better speakers.

The 2023 BMW X1 came standard with active blind-spot monitoring, front-collision warning with pedestrian and cyclist detection, and BMW’s Driving Assistant Professional suite. This included speed limit assist, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control with stop & go. A 360-degree surround-view camera system was available, along with Active Park Distance Control and Back-Up Assistant.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue included standard forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a driver monitoring system. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert was added in the Preferred trim. The Venue received Good ratings in three IIHS crash tests and an Acceptable rating for its LED headlights. The NHTSA awarded it a four-star overall rating.