2021 Hyundai Veloster N: The Brand’s Three-Door Performance Hatchback

Highlight: The Veloster N is available with a manual or an automatic transmission.

Test Vehicle's MSRP: $34,745 

Seating Capacity: 4

Standard Safety Features: airbags; ABS; high beam assist headlights; rearview camera; stability control; brake assist system; a tire pressure monitoring system; a forward collision avoidance assist system; a blind spot collision warning system; a rear cross traffic collision warning system; a lane keep assist system;  a lane following assist system; and a driver attention warning system

Standard Equipment (N): 19-inch wheels; automatic headlight controls; side mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators; tinted glass; seats: cloth inserts with leather-like bolsters; power lumbar, driver’s seat; manual operated driver’s seat; rear cupholders and storage console; 60/40 fold down rear seating; an 8-inch navigation system; a wireless charging pad; a leather shift knob; automatic temperature control; a manual operated tilt/telescopic steering; and a push button ignition starter system

Options: None

Other Trim Levels:

1.6-liter Turbo Hatchback

1.6-liter Veloster R-Spec

2.0-liter Veloster

2.0-liter Veloster Premium

Standard Audio On Test Vehicle: an  8-speaker audio system with AM/FM/HD with SiriusXM

Bluetooth Connectivity: Standard

USB Connectivity: Standard

Apple/Android Connectivity: Standard

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles

Powertrain Warranty: 10 years or 100,000 miles

Standard Engine/Horsepower: 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder engine/275-hp

Recommended Fuel: Premium

Standard Fuel Mileage: 20-city/267-hwy

What’s New:  With the exception of several standard driver assistance features, an 8-in navigation system and special modified seats, the sports car is literally a carryover for the 2021 model year.

Why: 

A performance-oriented hatchback, which pushes out 275-horsepower

An available manual transmission

A spirited driving experience

A more pronounced engine

A host of standard driver assist features

Easy-to-use infotainment system

Sport seats with N illuminated logo

One of the best new vehicle warranty

A wireless charging pad

But: 

Limited rear seat legroom

A three-door, as opposed to a four-door hatchback

Requires premium fuel

No electric version on the horizon

Verdict:  While most automakers have shifted abruptly to electric vehicles, Hyundai continues to perfect their space in the affordable performance arena. The only other vehicle playing in this arena is the 2021 Honda Civic Type R, which spews out 31 more horsepower coupled with a an extra $4,000 tacked on the Japanese brand’s MSRP.

On the hand, the sculpted-like, but sexy looking Mazda3 offer 25 less horsepower, no manual transmission and a comparable price tag.

However, the Hyundai Veloster hits a sweet spot in terms of pricing, features, horsepower and warranty.

Competition: Mazda3 Turbo; 2021 Honda Civic Type R; and VW Golf GTI