The Crittenden Automotive Library

…And Now For Something Completely Different

Topics: Hyundai Veloster

…And Now For Something Completely Different

Geoff Maxted
DriveWrite
October 4, 2013

It seems that, with the Veloster, Hyundai intended to come up with something a little different from the norm. They have succeeded. It contrives to be both a hatchback and a coupé and, bizarrely, it works.

There’s a hatch at the back, with a rather high sill but a decent boot, a wide driver’s door and two standard doors on the nearside. Thus, the smart coupé styling is possible whilst retaining the ability to load passengers in the back.

It should look odd but doesn’t. What does look odd, to this reviewer at least, is the dashboard. The centre consul looks like something Darth Vader has just taken off. It is clear that this dash styling is simply following the design ethos of the car and that’s fine - and it is worth noting that the features are well laid out - but it is always going to be a matter of personal taste.

The car though, is great. The standard Veloster is a little underpowered but the turbo version in the images is what the car should have been from the outset. Power comes from an in-line 4-cyl, 1591cc, turbo-charged engine. I loved the steering which was very direct and nicely weighted.The turbocharged engine transforms the whole car, with a keen, precise pull with very little lag from low revs. Torque delivery is strong. The Veloster Turbo isn’t especially quick on paper with just over eight seconds for the 0-62 sprint but on the road the 184bhp make sure it covers the ground with aplomb.

I think they’ve got this car just about right for a British market. The gear ratios are spot-on, the brakes firm and progressive and the manual handbrake is placed right where it should be according to DriveWrite‘s manual of how things should be. Traction control can be switched off but I shouldn’t think most people would want to do without it.

Customers will pay a little more for this undoubted individuality. The SE Turbo - the one to buy - comes with touch screen satnav, a reversing camera and heated seats for around £22k. It’s this price that could be a sticking point. There are rivals in the hot hatch sector that are cheaper. That said, you won’t see many about and it did attract glances in passing; Hyundai have done a good job sorting the car and it is a satisfying and fun drive. Also, it does look good in orange. Then there’s the dashboard. Perhaps it’s me? I hope so because this excellent little car deserves a run out. Choice SE Turbo.