In a world of hot hatchbacks, the 2019 Hyundai Veloster stands out in virtually every aspect. It would have been very convenient for the Korean carmaker to drop the asymmetric wacky shaped Veloster from its lineup. Instead, what it has given customers is a new design combined with cutting edge technology and a low price, which makes this sports coupe an alluring prospect.
INTERIOR DESIGN
The first thing you notice when you step in the 2019 Hyundai Veloster is the colour contrasted environment separating the driving cockpit, particularly the seats and steering wheel. A 7” touchscreen infotainment compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay comes as standard. However, buyers can also opt for an 8” touchscreen with built in navigation.
One thing which is sure to go unnoticed is the three-door design of the coupe, putting two doors on the front side and the third door on the rear passenger side. There is a hatch for cargo as well. The driver’s door is longer compared to the two passenger doors. Compared to other coupes, where getting in and out is a big task, the rear door adds some comfort and ease to the rear passenger seats!
UNIQUE EXTERIOR
Speaking again of asymmetry, the first thing that one notices about the Veloster is its three door design. A refreshing change from the coupes which we are used to seeing, this will surely draw customers looking for a compromise between hot hatches and sport coupes. The wide stance at the front end coupled with the large front grille give off a sturdy and planted look. The rear door handle is invisible, making it all the more seductive in terms of design. Standing on 18” alloy wheels with curved LED lights, the Veloster is sure to stand out in its segment.
Hyundai has also made it a point to combine a bit of practicality with the aesthetics. While previous model year Velosters had a 16 cubic feet cargo capacity, for its latest model, the automaker has increased it to 20 cubic feet.
PERFORMANCE AND DRIVE
The 2019 Hyundai Veloster comes with two engine options – a 2.0L Atkinson churning out 147hp paired with either a 6-speed manual or automatic and a 1.6L turbo GDI outputting 201hp and paired with a 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Both models have three driving modes – Normal, Sport and Smart. The turbo engine propels the 2019 Veloster from 0-60mph in 6 seconds while the 2.0L Atkinson does it in 6.7 seconds. This puts the turbo head to head with the likes of the VW Golf GTI and the Honda Civic Coupe Si, in terms of performance.
One of the advantages of the 2019 Veloster is its lightweight and on center precision. When it comes to control and handling, the steering usually feels light, making for a pleasurable driving experience. This can be attributed mainly to the Torque Vectoring Control (TVC) technology used by Hyundai, which comes alive on sudden twists and sharp turns. By minutely slowing the inside of front wheels, the Veloster offers improved stability.
The gas pressurized shock absorbers make sure that the ride is not too bumpy, offering a comfortable experience on uneven roads and long drives.
FINAL THOUGHTS
The posted fuel economies are 8.5L/100km in the city and 6.9 L/100km on the highway, which is quite attractive compared to others in its segment. Add to that a base price of $21,000, making the 2019 Hyundai Veloster one of the lowest priced sport coupes. It’s fair to say that anyone looking at hot hatches and sport coupes is bound to have their attention grabbed by the asymmetric, performance driven 2019 Veloster!
