Hyundai drops base Veloster in Canada
Hyundai is dropping the base model Veloster from the Canadian lineup, leaving only the top-of-the line Veloster N for 2021.
Hyundai did not cite a reason for killing the lower-trim models in Canada, but it’s likely because people just aren’t buying it. With two small crossovers (Venue, Kona) already doing exceedingly well, Hyundai likely decided that if buyers really want the sporty hatch, they would need to pay extra for the top-of-the-line N trim instead of having dealers sitting on undesirable, low-margin cars.
Those looking for a small hatch from the brand are running out of options, because Hyundai recently killed off the Accent in Canada as well. Just the Elantra hatch and the Ioniq remain.
A new transmission is being added to the Veloster performance hatch — an eight-speed wet dual-clutch automatic. Hyundai
hopes that the inclusion of an automatic transmission will open up a new world of buyers, because the Veloster N was previously only available with a six-speed manual.
“Veloster N demonstrates Hyundai’s approach to high-performance cars. By equipping Veloster N with N DCT, drivers get performance and convenience at the same time,” said Thomas Schemera, Hyundai’s head of product division.
“Anyone who wants a fun driving experience will jump at the chance to pilot the new Veloster N — an everyday sports car with racetrack capabilities.”
Driving.ca