Susan Frissell
The Hyundai Veloster Turbo, a recent edition to the Hyundai Veloster family, is a sporty, low-to-the-ground racy looking speedster. Fun to drive, Veloster also comes with many of the amenities of more dignified sedans, such as heated seats and GPS. In fact, the GPS system in the Veloster
Named one of the ‘coolest cars under $18,000,’ Veloster is available in Base, RE: Mix and Turbo; and several iterations within those models, including RWD and AWD. Although there is little visible competition for the Veloster, it does line up with the likes of Honda Civic Si, Ford Focus ST and the Volkswagen GTI; the later, a formidable competitor.
Driving the Veloster can be somewhat of a challenge in traffic due to its hatchback shape and blindspots. The slopping backend and B pillar, it can be difficult to navigate vehicles to the right of the driver. The interior is sporty and appealing, including the seats. However, comfort isn’t necessarily a strong point. The seats although great looking, are a tad stiff and unaccommodating to the driver/passenger. There is a lumbar feature, of sorts and the seat hikes up/down. There is plenty of legroom and drivers of all sizes will fit.
The steering column moves up/down, making seating a little more comfortable for all shapes and sizes. Legroom is more than adequate in the front seats, and rear seating is remarkably generous. The rear seats lean backward allowing for more torso and leg room. Cupholders separate the rear bucket seats. The only trick is getting back there, although using the right-side rear door makes it easier.
Bluelink runs the show in the Hyundai Veloster. While the young can figure it all out in seconds, some of us took a few more minutes to determine just what is available; from sound, to navigation and routes/maps, to phone connections, Bluelink is an advanced system which operates such features as voice text messaging, location sharing, geo fence, roadside assistance
The sporty Hyundai Velostar is a hatchback with three doors. The rear hatchback operates quickly and easily, and opens up to generous cargo space.
Although responsive, the turbo isn’t the fastest gun in the west. One can get a better idea what the Veloster turbo can do by taking it out on the open road. Hovering around 80 mph was effortless. Driving around town in the Veloster can take its toll on the kidneys, however, on the highway, Veloster is a very comfortable, smooth-riding vehicle.
The split rear window is attractive yet, makes for poor visibility; so too the B-pillar. A common problem with sporty-looking cars. Driving the Veloster provides thrills and the turning radius allows for some creative stops and starts.
Veloster’s interior is sporty, functional and all controls within easy reach of the driver. Features include the Pandora internet radio, and (above) the ability to send texts by voice commands. The Veloster is available in base and turbo versions, is front-wheel-drive and seats four. A new model, the Veloster has yet to be rated.
Competition includes the Nissan Juke.
SPECS:
MSRP: $17,450-$22,950
Engine: 1.6-liter GDI DOHC, dual CVVT, 201 hp., 195 torque, twin-scroll turbo charger
Transmission: Dual-clutch automated manual six-speed
Wheelbase: 104.3 in.
Height: 55.1 in.
Length: 166 in.
Width: 70.5 in.
Curb Weight: 2,584 lbs.
Tires: P215/40R 18
Wheels: 18-inch alloy
EPA Fuel Economy: 27/37 mpg.
Fuel tank: 13.2 gal.
Warranty: 5-yr., 60,000-miles
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