2014 Hyundai Veloster vs. Its Competition

Bengt Halvorson Senior Editor

The Hyundai Veloster stands apart from its competition, most of which toe the heritage or retro line.

The MINI Clubman and VW Beetle have evolved with turbo power of their own; we doubt the Clubman's added utility, but it still behaves like a Cooper, and has endless custom options on order.

The Beetle's better rear suspension and turbo four upgrade the whole driving experience, and so does Fender sound, though we wish the extra sound deadening still would show up for duty.

The Honda CR-Z is also a rival to the Veloster; despite having a mild-hybrid system, the CR-Z isn't that much more fuel-efficient.

The Scion, meanwhile, has a far more torquey engine and feels stronger off the line, but it pays the price with fuel economy numbers that are nearly 10 mpg lower on the highway.

Overall, in this crowd, the Veloster feels closer to a sports car, with a balanced, surefooted handling feel, while having a more spacious interior and better long-distance comfort.

Finally, the Scion tC is probably the Veloster's most direct competitor; the Hyundai has a far more spacious, comfortable interior, with more usable cargo space and versatility.