The 2012 Hyundai Veloster greeted the market with its sharp and bold looks.
It features smart innovations such as the three-door design, bigger trunk and lengthy warranty.
With the new Veloster, hatchback lovers have another option to look at. This vehicle provides you great value through the savings you get with the gas savings.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Compact | Base Price: $17,300.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gallons (50L) | MPG: 28 city / 40 hwy |
| Length: 166.1 in. (421.8 cm) | Wheel Base: 104.3 in. (264.9 cm) |
| Height: 55.1 in. (139.9 cm) | Width: 70.5 in. (179 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 2584 lbs (1172 kg) | Ground Clearance: NA |
| Luggage Capacity: 15.5 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 4 people |
| Engine: 1.6L Inline 4 DOHC | Compression Ratio: 11.0: 1 |
| Horsepower: 138 HP | Max RPM: 6300 RPM |
| Torque: 123 lb-ft @ 4850 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Manual |
| 0-60 mph: 8.4 seconds | 1/4 Mile: 16.5 seconds |
Engine
The Hyundai Veloster has a 4-cylinder 1.6 liter engine that delivers 138 horsepower and 123 lbs/ft of torque which only implies one thing: the Veloster is one of the most powerful in its class. However, it is not the most fuel efficient hatchback in its segment.
According to EPA, the Veloster has a fuel efficiency rating of 40/28 mpg highway/city for the manual transmission and 38 highway/ 29 city mpg for the model equipped with the dual-clutch Eco-shift transmission.
The Eco-shift is perhaps the most amazing feature of the engine because it makes the manual transmission work like an automatic. We believe that the Eco-shift complements the power and the weight of the Veloster.
Performance
Although the 2012 Veloster offers adequate power, it does not bring much fun in driving. That is because of the very accurate steering and strong brakes. Sometimes, the overall ride quality can be harsh because of the less than stellar suspension tuning.
Nevertheless, the Veloster still has some features to like such as minimal body lean. It allows the hatchback to be nimble during fast turns in corners and curvy downhill driving. As far as performance is concerned, we can say that the Veloster is serious and precise.
Exterior
The new Veloster has a distinctive look that will put awe to those who are young at heart. It inherits the traditional fine lines and organic curves that Hyundai is known for. We can definitely say that the Veloster is attractive.
Interior
The Veloster has a fine interior compared to other cars in its class. However, it makes this hatchback more expensive in the arena of affordable small cars. But if you love to put style inside the cabin, you cannot go wrong with the Veloster.
However, the rear seat has a problem accommodating taller passengers because it lacks sufficient headroom. The rear visibility is also less impressive. Perhaps you need to get used to the Veloster’s third door that lets the rear passengers in. It is out of the box. The driver and the front passenger can get in the car with the traditional door, nevertheless.
The Veloster features a console that practically has everything you need. From infotainment and connectivity to modern devices to navigational assistance, the Veloster console can provide it for you.
Safety
The Veloster comes with the standard safety features such as anti-lock brakes (for all wheels), traction control, electronic brake force distribution, and brake assist. It has not been tested by the federal government and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety because it is new.
Reliability
It comes with a standard 5-year warranty, a 10-year limited powertrain warranty, a 7-year corrosion warranty and a 5-year 24-hour roadside assistance.
Pros
The new Veloster has attractive looks, adequate power, enough cargo space and innovative features. Without a doubt the new Veloster provides great value for your money.
Cons
There are some drawbacks though, and one of them is the poor rear visibility. Another is the low headroom that can make tall passengers feel cramped inside. The quality of ride can be harsh because of the poorly tuned suspension.
If you are looking for a stylish and powerful hatchback that handles well in the city, the 2012 Hyundai Veloster is right for you.
Competition
In this growing segment of compact cars, the Veloster is joined by the likes of the Honda CR Z (MSRP $19,695; 31 city / 37 hwy) and the Scion tC coupe (MSRP $18,575; 23 city / 31 hwy).
Overall Rating
72 out of 100
What others say:
“The 2012 Hyundai Veloster is no sports car, but it’s genuinely a sporty drive.”Car Connection
“Nicely weighted steering and sporty suspension provide a fun driving experience. Veloster corners with little body lean, inspiring confidence in fast turns. Brakes have good pedal feel. During fast, twisty downhill driving, the brakes provided fade-free stopping power.”Consumer Guide
“The Veloster is Hyundai’s new compact three-door coupe that offers the functionality of a hatchback and the convenience of a passenger-side front-hinged rear door for easier rear-seat access.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports
“You’ll like the Hyundai Veloster if you want a fun-to-drive, cool-looking hatchback coupe that is also practical and exceptionally fuel efficient.”KBB
“With plenty of features, laudable fuel economy and sharp looks, the 2012 Hyundai Veloster is a top pick for a fun-to-drive hatchback.”Edmunds
