Test Vehicle’s MSRP: $29,885 (Base model: $27,885)
Seating Capacity: 4 (super tight fit in the back seat)
Standard Safety Features: ABS; airbags; an electronic stability control system; a rearview camera; and a tire pressure monitoring system
Standard Equipment: 18-inch wheels; a 6-speed rev matching manual transmission; an electronically controlled suspension system; large bore exhaust outlets; a driver selection mode; a unique sport-tuned steering; LED headlights/tail lamps; tinted glass; cloth front performance seats with highlighted blue stitching; 6-way adjustable driver’s seat; an 8-inch infotainment screen; a leather wrapped steering wheel; alloy pedals; automatic temperature control; a manual operated tilt/telescopic steering wheel; a push button keyless ignition starter system; and a keyless entry system
Optional Features On Test Vehicle: 275-hp engine; 19-inch wheels; summer tires; n corner carving differential limited slip differential with electronic control; a dual variable exhaust valve system; 13.6-inch front rotors; and 12.4-inch rear rotors
Standard Audio On Test Vehicle: an 8-speaker Infinity with SiriusXM
Bluetooth Connectivity: Yes
USB Connectivity: Yes
Powertrain Warranty: 10 years or 100,000 miles
Standard Engine/Horsepower: 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder/250-hp
Recommended Fuel: Regular Unleaded
Standard Fuel Mileage: 22-city/28 -hwy
Why: The
redesign Veloster is available in a manual or an automatic configuration. The
three-door hatchback is available in a variety of trims with a choice of
engines.
However,
while the non performance base Veloster is outfitted with a 1.6 liter turbo engine, which produced
201-horsepower, the N Performance model, which we reviewed, was equipped with a
250-horsepower engine. The Veloster N is only available with a manual.
For
those seeking a little more thrill and excitement, we recommend stepping up to
the optional performance package, which kicks out a whopping 275-horsepower.
The easy-to-shift 6-speed manual transmission turned the sporty three door
hatchback into a factory tuned, street legal race car. And to complement the
added power, the infotainment screens houses an app, which caters toward those
seeking the push the limits, measuring lap times and more.
While
the Veloster N is available in a variety of exterior colors, the vehicle we reviewed
had a jet black main exterior color, which was appropriately accented with red
trim around the lower edges of the car, as well as the front and rear fascias.
The Veloster N was also equipped with matching red brake calipers, too. The
black and red combination, with its sporty wheels, made this vehicle a standout
from other vehicles. The vehicle just screamed it was here to take names and
make a statement. And, we must say, it did not disappoint.
Inside
the vehicle, the Veloster was outfitted with the N’s signature blue seatbelts, performance
–oriented seats which were designed for racing or cross country trips. We found
the seats to be extremely supportive and comfortable, even when taking sharp
curves. A few of the higher end brands can take a page from Hyundai in terms of
balancing comfort and sportiness.
Hyundai’s
engineering team also placed close emphasis on making sure the vehicle wasn’t
harsh and overly firm like the Hyundai Genesis R Track Coupe we reviewed years
ago. The engineering team was able to hit a sweet spot with the suspension
system in our Veloster N, balancing both comfort and handling capabilities.
In
addition to the look and ride of the vehicle, the well-equipped sports car
included such features as a push button ignition starter system, a 60/40 split
fold down rear seatback, an 8-inch infotainment screen and an upgraded Infinity
8-speaker audio system with a SiriusXM audio system.
For
buyers seeking premium luxury features in the Veloster, they’ll find leather
seats, a wireless charging pad, a heads up display system, a navigation system
and HD radio are available in the non performance top of line Ultimate trim. Added
to that, a new two tone color treatment is available too.
Lastly,
depending upon the trim, such safety-driving aids as a blind spot collision warning
system, a rear cross traffic collision warning system, a forward-collision
avoidance assistance, with pedestrian detection, and rain sensing wipers, can
be outfitted in the non performance Veloster too.
But:
The Veloster N does not
offer any of the electronic semi driving safety aids, a navigation system or a
sunroof on this performance model. The only self-driving aid we wish the
product planner should consider is an electronic blind spot system.
And, unlike
in Ford’s Mustangs outfitted with sound enhanced muffler system, the occupants
aren’t able to experience the noise inside the cabin.
Moreover,
for those seeking an automatic transmission they’ll have to revert to a non
performance Veloster. This is a true driver’s oriented vehicle. One won’t find
shifters here.
Furthermore,
the concave rear window contains blind spots, which impedes the view of the
driver.
Lastly,
the Veloster’s rear seating is not designed for teens or adults. One literally
has to squeeze and hold their breath to enter and exit the area. And with this
being a three door, occupants can only enter and exit the rear on one side of
the vehicle.
Verdict:
The Veloster N is
the second performance model to join Hyundai’s performance line up. The stylish
Veloster N, with its fun to drive nature, will easily appeal to the tuner crowd
and/or those looking for a great alternative to sports coupes such as the
Camaro and the Mustang.
For
those seeking to add some excitement to what has become somewhat of a hum drum
experience in most of today’s vehicles, especially as more self driving
features are infused into today’s vehicles, the Veloster N reminds one of all
the thrills of what driving should be, as long as one is not confined to
congested highways and street traffic. This is definitely a road runner to
consider.
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