2019 HYUNDAI VELOSTER
Hyundai’s rule-busting hatchback coupe is unusual, but appealing to the youth segment
Leaving well enough alone is rarely a good idea in the automotive business, but automakers also risk losing their customer base for their more popular models if they get too carried away. The 2019 Veloster, whichHyundai identifies as a youth-oriented model, deftly straddles the line between old and new with familiar styling that masks significant changes below the sheetmetal.
Legions of Veloster-ites will recognize the new nose, replete with de rigueur mesh grille, sculpted hood and muscular fenders. Other visible changes include restyled rear roof pillars and a more upright hatchback that helps increase stowage space, with the rear seat in place, by nearly 30 percent. With the rear seat folded, a now nearly flat load floor should also yield a bit more cargo room.
The passenger compartment is attractive enough, but the business-like dashboard and control panel are no match for the previous Veloster’s more stylized appearance.
Carried over is theVeloster’s signature passenger-side third-door. It’s small, which makes it harder for adult-sized riders to access the rear seat, but it’s still easier than entering though the driver’s side of the car.
Most of the new Veloster’s key dimensions— length, width, height and distance between the front and rear wheels— vary only slightly from the previous model.
What has changed is the car’s platform that was originally borrowed from the sub-compact Accent. The Veloster now uses the architecture developed for the Elantra sedan. A multi-link independent rear suspension is standard and provides superior ride and road-holding qualities compared to the previous torsion-beam (solid) rear axle.
For 2019, the base engine’s displacement has been increased to 2.0 liters from 1.6, with a corresponding increase in output to 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque (from 132/120).
Returning is a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder with 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet. Although those numbers are unchanged, peak torque output is now attained at 1,500 rpm versus the previous 1,750 rpm.
The 2.0 connects to a six-speed manual transmission or available sixspeed automatic, while the turbo 1.6 can also be had with a six-speed stick. A seven-speed paddle-shift automatic is an extra-cost option.
With either engine comes drivercontrolled Normal, Sport and Smart (eco) drive modes.
Top fuel economy is a virtual tie between the six-speed automatic 2.0 and the seven-speed automated-manual turbo 1.6 (30 mpg in combined city/ highway driving).
For big-time performance in a compact package, Hyundai will roll out the Veloster N performance model in late 2018. This iteration’s turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder powerplant
delivers “up to” 275 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque and is mated to a more rugged six-speed manual gearbox with rev-matching downshifts. A rear high-mount spoiler, aero body cladding, electronically controlled dampers, sport bucket seats and sport exhaust system are also part of the N package.
While there’s no word as to the Veloster N’s pricing, the base 2.0 trim costs $19,400, including destination charges. That buys you the usual accouterments plus forward-collision alert and lanekeeping assist.
The 2.0 Premium adds the automatic transmission plus climate control, panoramic sunroof, upgraded interior, premium audio system and rear crosstraffic warning with blind-spot alert.
The sportier R-Spec gets the turbo engine/manual transmission combo, blacked-out grille and alloy pedals. The premium Ultimate improves with leather seating surfaces, driver’s head-up information display, navigation system and a wireless charging pad.
The Veloster was a genuine oddity when it first arrived for the 2012 model year, but its non-conformist styling has certainly attracted younger buyers seeking high style at an affordable price. Fast-forward to this year and Hyundai’s mission remains unaltered, even though the car itself has evolved and matured.