The Car Connection Hyundai Veloster Overview
Rankings
- #3 in Compact Cars
- #3 in Small Cars
- #3 in Small Hatchbacks
The Hyundai Veloster is a compact hatchback that spans the range from regular to extra hot. It's a four-door, but not like you might be thinking.
On the passenger side the Veloster has two doors, but on the driver side, only one. In the back, it's a hatchback. The unusual layout is supposed to help with cargo-loading and wedging passengers into the backseat. It takes some getting used to, and can also seem weird for the sake of weird, since there are few real advantages to the asymmetrical layout.
MORE: Read our 2022 Hyundai Veloster N review
With the Veloster, Hyundai has a hatchback that it pitches against the Honda Civic Coupe and Toyota C-HR.
The new Hyundai Veloster
The latest Hyundai Veloster broke cover at the the 2018 Detroit auto show with a surprise: a very hot, Veloster N version. That's the only version that survives into the 2022 model year, as Hyundai pruned older versions that offered a 147-horsepower 2.0-liter inline-4, or a 1.6-liter turbo-4 that made 201 hp. Six-speed manuals were standard for both, while the base Veloster offered an optional 6-speed automatic and turbo models sold an optional 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.
The Veloster N sported a 275-hp turbo-4 that with a 6-speed manual; an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic joined its lineup in 2021.
Hyundai Veloster history
Based on the Elantra sedan, but fitted with the 1.6-liter direct-injection inline-4 from the smaller Accent, the first-generation Veloster was the first Hyundai to offer the company's dual-clutch transmission. Its handling was very good (thanks in part to a different rear suspension geometry and stiffer tune), with impressive grip and poise, though its steering could've use better weighting and more road feel, and the engine was sorely lacking in low-range torque. Provided you keep the revs up, the Veloster showed its other, perkier personality.
Hyundai added a turbocharged engine to the Veloster lineup shortly after the first model was introduced. It included a sport-tuned suspension, revised steering and brakes, and 18-inch wheels and tires. The Turbo netted 201 hp and originally offered a choice of a 6-speed automatic or manual.
While the Veloster's cabin is spacious and airy from the front seat, the back seats were cramped with limited head room. Rear seats were folded down, where they formed a flat cargo surface; the hatch is very wide, although there's quite a tall liftover at the back.
The Veloster came with a standard 7.0-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, built-in Gracenote display technology, and a USB port to connect and access iPod media via voice controls.
The 2012-2013 Veloster is one of a set of vehicles found to have overstated fuel-economy numbers. The EPA has tested both model years and lowered its gas-mileage ratings, to a maximum of 37 mpg highway for the Veloster, and 35 mpg for the Turbo. Owners can register with Hyundai to receive reimbursement for the gas consumed above and beyond expected levels; more details are found at HyundaiMPGInfo.com. For our own real-world take on the car, including its gas mileage returns, read our 6-month road test.
Hyundai added a Turbo R-Spec Veloster model for 2014 for shoppers interested in taking their hatchback to a racetrack. Compared to the regular Turbo model, the R-Spec offered a stiffer suspension, a unique steering calibration, and a short-shifter from B&M. It also did without a few features, like the proximity key, the fancy instrument cluster, turn signals in the side mirrors, and heated leather seats.
The Veloster changed only slightly for 2015. Eighteen-inch alloy wheels were added to the Style Package, and the Technology Package gained automatic climate control.
Hyundai updated the Veloster for 2016. All models got a revised front-end look, with a much larger grille and a new hood. The 7.0-inch infotainment system was improved, with the addition of the latest Hyundai Blue Link features and Siri Eyes Free functionality. The Veloster Turbo received a new 7-speed dual-clutch automatic as an option, replacing the former 6-speed automatic. A Rally model went above the R-Spec with stiffer suspension tuning, a B&M Racing sport shifter for its 6-speed manual, lightweight 18-inch RAYS wheels, and unique matte blue paint.
After a host of updates last year, for 2017 the changes were limited to the addition of HD Radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to its infotainment system.
