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2021 Hyundai Veloster

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Make
Hyundai
Model
Veloster
Year
2021
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Hyundai Veloster OEM Exterior Primary Photo
OEM Interior Primary
OEM Exterior
OEM Exterior
OEM Interior
Photos Colors
Expert Rating
3.4 (Good)

Our expert ratings are based on seven comprehensive criteria: quality, safety, comfort, performance, fuel economy, reliability history and value.

You can interpret our ratings in the following way:

: Outstanding vehicle. Only the most exceptional vehicles achieve this rating.

: Very Good vehicle. Very good and close to being the best vehicle in its class.

: Good vehicle. Decent, but not quite the best. Often affordable, but lacking key features found in vehicles of the same class.

: Below average vehicle. Not recommended, and lacking attributes a car buyer would come to expect for the price.

: Poor vehicle. Simply does not deserve to be on the road.

Select a Trim
Select a Trim
2021 2.0 3dr Hatchback w/6-Speed Manual
most popular
Price:   -  From $18,900
2021 2.0 3dr Hatchback w/6-Speed Automatic Price:   -  From $19,900
2021 2.0 Premium 3dr Hatchback Price:   -  From $23,100
2021 Turbo R-Spec 3dr Hatchback Price:   -  From $23,450
2021 Turbo 3dr Hatchback Price:   -  From $25,750
2021 Turbo Ultimate 3dr Hatchback Price:   -  From $28,450
2021 N 3dr Hatchback w/6-speed Manual Price:   -  From $32,250
2021 N 3dr Hatchback w/8-speed DCT Price:   -  From $33,750

Overview

What's New

The 2021 Hyundai Veloster returns with hardly any changes. The only newsworthy upgrade comes on the performance-oriented Veloster N, which gains an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

This Veloster is the second generation of Hyundai’s funky, asymmetrical hatchback. We expect a mid-cycle refresh in the next year or two, but it’s business as usual for now.

Choosing Your Hyundai Veloster

The Veloster comes in six trims: 2.0, 2.0 Premium, Turbo R-Spec, Turbo, Turbo Ultimate, and N. The price range is considerable, as a base Veloster starts at $19,875 including destination, but a Veloster N costs $29,775.

Engine Choices

The Veloster comes with three engine possibilities. Most of the trims are named for their engine possibilities: 2.0 trims get the base 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, while Turbo variants get the 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. The Veloster N is the outlier, receiving a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder in two different tunes.

Engine TypeHorsepowerTorqueFuel Economy (Combined)
2.0L 4-Cylinder147 hp132 lb-ft30 mpg
1.6L Turbo 4-Cylinder201 hp195 lb-ft30 mpg
2.0L Turbo 4-Cylinder250 hp278 lb-ft25 mpg
2.0L Turbo 4-Cylinder275 hp278 lb-ft25 mpg

All Veloster models utilize front-wheel drive. The 2.0 trim comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, while a six-speed automatic is available for $1,000. The automatic gearbox is standard on the 2.0 Premium.

The Turbo R-Spec and N come standard with the six-speed manual and offer no automatic option, while the Turbo and Turbo Ultimate get a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic standard. The N is also available with the new eight-speed dual-clutch automatic.

Passenger and Cargo Capacity

The Veloster seats four – as long as passengers enter from the curb. The second row has only one door on the passenger side of the car. With 34.1 inches of leg room, the rear seats are cramped enough that you won’t want to ride there much, anyway.

Behind the rear seat is 19.9 cubic feet of cargo space, which expands to 44.5 cubic feet with it folded down. That’s respectable for a small hatch, and miles better than a sedan.

Hyundai Veloster

Safety Features

Every Veloster comes with automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane keeping assist, and a driver attention monitor. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are included on all trims except the base. The Turbo Ultimate adds pedestrian detection and adaptive cruise control.

Connectivity

The 2.0 trim starts with a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Bluetooth and a 3.5-inch driver information display are also included. All other trims utilize an 8-inch unit with satellite radio, an eight speaker Infinity audio system, and a 4.2-inch driver information display.

The 2.0 Premium, Turbo, and Turbo Ultimate also get wireless device charging, while the Turbo Ultimate also adds navigation, a head-up display, and HD radio.

Hyundai Veloster

2.0 - From $19,875

Aside from basic infotainment features and 17-inch alloy wheels, the Veloster 2.0 keeps things simple. Upholstery is cloth, headlights aren't LED, and this is the only trim without niceties like push button start. That helps keeps things affordable.

Hyundai prefers to sort its features by trim rather than package, so aside from exterior color and dealer accessories, the transmission is the only choice buyers have to make.

2.0 Premium - From $24,075

The 2.0 Premium trim allows buyers to add luxury without spending on power. The wheels grow to 18 inches, while the roof gains a tilt-and-slide sunroof.

Inside, wireless charging and premium audio come standard, as do automatic temperature control, push button start, and keyless entry. Infotainment is upgraded to the 8-inch screen, while the seats have leather bolsters, and the front two are heated.

Turbo R-Spec - From $24,425

The Turbo R-Spec is priced near the 2.0 Premium, but it has the opposite personality – more power, fewer features (it misses out on the sunroof, heated front seats, and wireless device charging). This is the first trim to get the 1.6-liter turbo engine and the accompanying 201 horsepower.

The R-Spec comes with the larger infotainment system, but otherwise the interior closely resembles the base 2.0. The R-Spec does get LED headlights and taillights, a sport-tuned suspension to match its extra power, unique cloth upholstery, alloy pedals, and a unique shift knob.

Turbo - From $26,725

The Turbo trim adds back some of the luxury features. The sunroof, heated front seats, and wireless charging are all back. The driver's seat also gains power lumbar support, while the side mirrors add turn signal indicators.

Turbo Ultimate - From $29,425

The Turbo Ultimate unlocks some exclusive features, as it should for nearly $30,000. This is the only trim to get adaptive cruise control, navigation, and leather seating. A head-up display, HD radio, and a sharp two-tone roof round out the upgrades.

N - From $29,775

The racer of the Veloster lineup adds a larger turbo engine for at least 250 hp. The boost isn't without compromise – the Veloster N loses the leather upholstery, navigation, and some of the active safety tech.

In exchange, it gains the upgraded engine, an electronically controlled sport suspension, and exclusive N-badged accents. The new powertrain comes with selectable drive modes to make sure throttle response matches expectations on canyon backroads.

Drivers who want the new eight-speed dual-clutch automatic will need the Performance Package ($2,100). The package also brings an extra 25 hp, an electronic sport differential, 19-inch wheels, and upgraded brakes.

Compare Veloster Trims Side-By-Side

CarsDirect Tip

Value is best toward the middle of the 2021 Hyundai Veloster range – the Turbo R-Spec and 2.0 Premium are good bets. We wouldn’t say no to a Veloster N, though.

author image
Automotive Editor
Read Less

Expert Review

Pros
  • Potent N model
  • Handsome, unique styling
  • As practical as it is fun
  • Great value
Cons
  • Languid base engine
  • Cramped back seat
  • Three doors?
Expert Rating
3.4 (Good)

Our expert ratings are based on seven comprehensive criteria: quality, safety, comfort, performance, fuel economy, reliability history and value.

You can interpret our ratings in the following way:

: Outstanding vehicle. Only the most exceptional vehicles achieve this rating.

: Very Good vehicle. Very good and close to being the best vehicle in its class.

: Good vehicle. Decent, but not quite the best. Often affordable, but lacking key features found in vehicles of the same class.

: Below average vehicle. Not recommended, and lacking attributes a car buyer would come to expect for the price.

: Poor vehicle. Simply does not deserve to be on the road.

author image
Automotive Editor

Korean GTI. With its recent 2019 redesign, the Hyundai Veloster finally matured into the sports coupe it always aspired to be. Well, maybe not quite a sports coupe – there's still an asymmetrical three-door design that recalls old Saturn coupes or the Mazda RX-8.

Weird door layout aside, the 2021 Hyundai Veloster proves that the automaker is just as talented at building fun cars as they are at stamping out affordable, practical cars and crossovers.

The newest Veloster doesn't change much from the 2020 model, with the biggest update being a new eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that's optional on the top N trim. The N caps a trim ladder comprising a good half-dozen rungs, but all the different models are fun and tossable in a way older Veloster models simply weren't.

Four-pot fun. There's no fewer than six trims available for the Veloster. The differences between them are largely a matter of amenities and luxury equipment, but there's the small matter of engines to consider as well. A trio of four-cylinders offer performance that's either relaxed, plucky, or downright quick.

If you couldn't guess, base models are the most leisurely, coaxing just 147 horsepower from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder. The lack of a turbocharger means the 2.0-liter's meager power is found at higher RPMs, requiring drivers to cane the thing more than they might otherwise prefer in order to get anywhere with haste. The average buyer won't call it slow, but it's never thrilling.

There's more verve in the 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder models employed in the Turbo R-Spec, Turbo, and Turbo Ultimate trims. The 201 hp of this engine brings some real gusto; it turns the Veloster from a sporty-looking hatch into an actual hot hatch. It's a great balance between practical, affordable, and fun, and would probably be our recommendation for most buyers.

The real entertainment, however, is reserved for the top of the range. Known simply as the Veloster N, this is the model that was built for track days and road courses. It gets 250 hp in standard tune or 275 if buyers splurge on the optional Performance Package; this package also buys better tires and some other goodies. Like the rest of the lineup, a six-speed manual transmission is standard, but a new eight-speed dual-clutch automatic is optional and exclusive to this trim. Read all the detailed specs and it's quickly apparent the N isn't here to play.

All engines are bolted to a chassis that's fun and composed in the corners, but you'll need one of the two bigger engines in order to really have some fun. The N in particular is a hoot, which isn't surprising – it was conceived specifically for enthusiast hijinks.


Hyundai Veloster

Practical considerations. For all the focus on fun, Hyundai hasn't forgotten that a cheap hatch needs to be practical. To that end, there's an objective argument for the Veloster as well, though it often hides behind the funky sheetmetal.

Gas mileage is one such selling point. In base form, the Veloster and its 2.0-liter four return 27 miles per gallon city, 34 mpg highway, and 30 combined with the automatic. Turbo models with the available seven-speed dual-clutch net 28/34/30 mpg (city/highway/combined). And even the N is good for 22/29/25 mpg when equipped with the manual.

Cargo space is also abundant, thanks to the hatchback design. With the rear seats up, there's nearly 20 cubic feet of cargo space; with the second row folded down, that number increases to 44.5 cubes.

Leaving us frustrated is the cramped back seat. Its 34 inches of rear leg room is woeful even for small car like this. Not helping matters is the asymmetrical door design, which leaves nothing but a compromised clamshell door on the passenger side providing ingress to the back seat. Contort yourself back there and it's clear that Hyundai prioritized front occupant comfort and exterior styling over back seat usability. For those who need a proper back seat, a Honda Civic Si or Volkswagen GTI are better options.

Features and value. Value has long been a strong suit of Hyundai, even before their product renaissance of the past decade. That heritage hasn't been forgotten as the brand continues to branch out into more segments. The Veloster is particular proof of this.

Base models begin at around $20,000, and get features like automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, cloth upholstery, and a 7.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, two USB ports, and Bluetooth connectivity.

Pricier models pile on other goodies, such as blind-spot monitoring, an 8.0-inch touchscreen, a sunroof, keyless ignition, and better materials. Specific trims vary by exact equipment, but they're similar in the sense that they're all standout values. A 2.0 Premium, for instance, pairs a long equipment list with the base engine for under $24,000.

That's a deal that'll prove tough to beat. The Volkswagen Golf family, which includes the GTI, costs thousands more for a comparably equipped model. The Honda Civic Sport and Si hew closer to the Veloster's pricing but can't match it for character. A loaded Mazda Mazda3 costs as much as a Veloster N without even a shadow of the performance.

Final thoughts. We'll come out and say it: after initially being nothing but ho-hum, the 2021 Hyundai Veloster has suddenly become a class standout. This shouldn't be totally surprising; with Hyundai, a new product often represents a major leap forward. Prime examples include the 2010 Equus, 2011 Sonata, and the 2020 Palisade. We'd now add the Veloster to that list, particularly the rollicking N version.

Up through 2019, the Hyundai lineup was missing a certain something. The quirky, distinctive, winsome current-generation Veloster has rectified that. Sister-brand Kia may sell the Soul, but Hyundai may have found its heart in the lovable Veloster.

Check prices for the 2021 Hyundai Veloster »

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Specs & Features

Highlights
Overall Crash Safety Rating
Not Available
Engine - Cylinders/Horsepower/Torque
2.0L I-4 / 147 HP / 132 ft.lbs.
Transmission
6-spd man w/OD
Drive Type
Front-wheel
Fuel Economy - City/Highway/Combined
25 / 33 / 29 Mpg
Passenger Capacity
4
Bumper to Bumper Warranty
60 Months / 60,000 Miles
Mechanical Specs
Engine - Cylinders/Horsepower/Torque
2.0L I-4 / 147 HP / 132 ft.lbs.
Drive Type
Front-wheel
Fuel Economy - City/Hwy/Combined
25 / 33 / 29 Mpg
Brakes
4-wheel Disc
Front Suspension
Strut
Rear Suspension
Independent Multi-link
Spare Tire And Wheel
Fuel Tank
13.2 Gal.
Recommended Fuel Type
Regular Unleaded
Average Cost To Fill Tank
$50
Dimensions & Capabilities
Maximum Cargo Volume
109.8 Cu.ft.
Passenger Volume
90 Cu.ft.
Exterior Length
166.9 "
Exterior Width
70.9 "
Exterior Height
55.1 "
Front Headroom
38.1 "
Rear Headroom
35.9 "
Front Legroom
42.6 "
Rear Legroom
34.1 "
Front Shoulder Room
56.0 "
Rear Shoulder Room
54.3 "
Front Hip Room
Rear Hip Room
Curb Weight
2,822 Lbs.
Wheel Base
104 "
Turning Radius
17.4 '
Exterior Features
Door Count
3 Doors
Wheels
17.0 " Silver Aluminum
Paint
Clearcoat Monotone
Exterior Mirrors
Dual Power Remote Heated, Convex Spotter Driver
Bumpers
Body-colored
Grille Moldings
Black
Rear Spoiler
Lip
Exhaust
Stainless Steel With Chrome Tailpipe Finish
Interior Features
Seating
Passenger Capacity
4
Seat Trim
Premium Cloth
Front Seat Type
Bucket
Heated Front Seats
Front Driver Seat Direction Controls
6-way
Front Passenger Seat Direction Controls
4-way
Front Armrests
6-way
Rear Armrests
Rear Seats
60-40 Bench
Radio & Infotainment
Radio
Am/fm, Clock, Seek-scan
Speakers
6
Radio Steering Wheel Controls
Apple Car Play
Android Auto
Bluetooth w/ Hands-Free Connectivity
Convenience Features
Steering Wheel Type
Telescopic Tilt
Climate Control
Cruise Control
With Steering Wheel Controls
Sun Roof
Rearview Mirror
Day-night
One Touch Open Window
Driver
Tinted Windows
Light
Vanity Mirrors
Dual Illuminated
Remote Keyless Entry
Keyfob (all Doors)
Power Outlets
1
Safety Features
Overall Crash Safety Rating
Not Yet Available
Overall Front Crash Safety Rating
Not Yet Available
Overall Side Crash Safety Rating
Not Yet Available
Rollover Crash Safety Rating
Not Yet Available
Front Impact Airbags
Driver And Passenger
Driver Side Impact Airbags
Seat Mounted
Knee Airbag
Passenger Side Impact Airbag
Seat Mounted
Rear Side Airbag
Seatbelt Pretensioners
Front
Anti-Lock Brakes
4-wheel Anti-lock Brakes (abs)
Forward Collision Warning
Forward Collision-avoidance Assist (fca) Forward Collision Mitigation
Blind Spot Sensor
Lane Departure Warning
Lane Keep Assist (lka) Lane Departure
Autonomous Cruise Control
Pedestrian Detection
Driver Attention Alert
Driver Attention Warning (daw) Driver Attention
Daytime Running Lights
Auto High Beams
Adaptive Headlights
Parking Sensors
Security Systems
Security System
Panic Alarm
Ignition Disable
Immobilizer
Warranty
Bumper To Bumper Months Miles
60 Months / 60,000 Miles
Major Components Months
120 Months / 100,000 Miles
Included Maintenance Months
36 Months / 36,000 Miles
Roadside Assistance Months
60 Months / Unlimited Miles
Corrosion Perforation
84 Months / Unlimited Miles
Accessories Months
12 Months / Unlimited Miles

Used 2021 Hyundai Veloster for Sale

3 vehicles found within 100 miles of your area
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Color: Ultra Black Pearl
Price

$24,000

Mileage

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Tustin Buick GMC (38 mi)

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Mileage

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Phone: (909) 552-7433
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