Renault Arkana vs Hyundai Venue

What's the difference?

This time around my family of three has been reviewing the updated Renault Arkana Esprit Alpine mild-hybrid, and you might be wondering… why?

In a market that is positively bursting at the seams with established and new competition, including full-hybrid rivals like the Honda HR-V RS and Hyundai Kona Premium, the Arkana has its work cut out for it.

It’s also a slightly unusual proposition, pairing the raised ride height of an SUV with the swooping roofline of a coupe, while sticking with a mild-hybrid powertrain as more and more rivals make the jump to full-hybrid.

So, does this small French SUV coupe still have enough going for it to stand out from the crowd?

This is the baby SUV for Hyundai’s line-up but it does tend to remind you of this a little too often for this to truly be fun.

Still, it presents an interesting road-side presence and a comfortable urban driving experience.

Coupled with the competitive price tag, is this the little SUV that could? I’ve been driving it for the last week to find that out for you.