Some journeys are not about reaching the destination quickly, but about enjoying every kilometer along the way. My drive from Trivandrum to Kochi through Kerala’s scenic state highways turned out to be one such memorable experience, made even better by the 2024 Hyundai Venue Automatic that I had rented for the trip.
Starting from Trivandrum
The journey began early in Trivandrum, with the city slowly waking up. The Venue, despite having already covered 30,778 km, felt fresh and well maintained. Slipping the gear into automatic mode, I immediately appreciated how effortless city driving became. Traffic signals, slow-moving buses, and frequent stops felt stress-free.
Cruising Through Central Kerala
The drive took us past lush coconut groves, calm backwaters, and small temple towns, each adding its own charm. The automatic transmission made a noticeable difference here — smooth gear shifts and responsive acceleration allowed me to focus on the road and the scenery instead of constant gear changes.
Passing through towns near Alappuzha, the highway ran alongside canals and paddy fields shimmering under the sun. Despite varying road conditions, the Venue remained stable and comfortable, absorbing minor bumps with ease.
First Stop – Kottayam Lulu Mall
Our first major stop was Lulu Mall, Kottayam, a perfect break point. After several hours of driving, I realized how relaxed I still felt. The seat support was excellent, and there was no back pain or fatigue — something that truly matters on long drives
Vaikom: A Peaceful Pause
From Kottayam, we headed towards Vaikom, driving through quieter roads lined with heritage homes, churches, and temples. This stretch was especially enjoyable, with light traffic and smooth surfaces. The Venue’s light steering and compact size made navigating these narrower roads easy and confidence-inspiring.
Fuel Efficiency & Comfort
The entire 400 km journey required less than ₹2,200 worth of petrol, which was impressive for an automatic car. Even more impressive was how neither my wife nor I felt tired by the end of the drive. The cabin remained quiet, comfortable, and well-ventilated throughout.
Hyundai Venue 2024 (Automatic) – Key Highlights
Engine: 1.0L Turbo Petrol
Transmission: 7-speed DCT Automatic
Power: ~120 PS
Mileage: ~17–18 km/l (real-world highway conditions)
Infotainment: 8-inch touchscreen with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
Safety: ABS, ESC, Hill Assist, multiple airbags
Boot Space: 350 litres
Driving from Trivandrum to Kochi through Kerala’s state highways in the Hyundai Venue Automatic was not just a journey — it was an experience. The comfort, ease of driving, and fuel efficiency turned a long drive into a relaxed pleasure trip.
For anyone planning a road trip across Kerala — especially couples or small families — the Hyundai Venue Automatic proves to be a reliable, comfortable, and enjoyable companion on the road.