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Hyundai's economical hatchback with sporty style, the Veloster distinguishes itself with a healthy load of standard equipment and a three-door layout that's nothing if not unique. While it's more about looks than actual performance, the Veloster can be optioned into a feisty contender that holds its own in the hot compact segment.
What's New for 2015
The Veloster's option packages receive some additional features.
Choosing Your Hyundai Veloster
At first glance, the Veloster looks like any other two-door hatchback with sporty aspirations. But look closely at the passenger side and you'll see a legitimate front-hinged rear door that permits hassle-free access to the backseat and cargo area. The Veloster offers more room in back for people and things than expected in coupes of similar size, though it's not to be confused with utility-oriented hatchbacks.
The 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine produces 138 horsepower when paired with the standard six-speed manual transmission, or 132 horsepower with the optional six-speed automated transmission known as DCT. Models with the DCT deliver about 31 mpg in combined driving.
The engine of choice for performance fans is a turbocharged version of the 1.6-liter, which delivers 201 horsepower and comes with either the manual transmission or a conventional six-speed automatic.
The Veloster is available in four trim levels:
Base
Carries the standard engine and a high level of equipment, including a rearview camera, Bluetooth phone and audio, a 7-inch touchscreen interface, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player and satellite and Internet radio.
The optional Style package adds a panoramic sunroof, an eight-speaker LG Dimension sound system, 18-inch wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and chrome and piano-black accents throughout. Models so equipped are eligible for the Technology package with a navigation system, rear parking sensors, automatic headlights, automatic climate control, keyless ignition and a household-style power outlet.
RE:FLEX Edition
Gets the contents of the Style package as standard, plus leather seating, unique wheels, fog lamps and LED taillights. Bodies are finished exclusively in Ice Pearl paint.
Turbo R-Spec
Receives the turbocharged engine matched only to the six-speed manual transmission, and performance upgrades such as sport-tuned steering and suspension systems, and a torque-vectoring feature that automatically applies the brakes for improved handling around curves.
The R-Spec also gets an aerodynamic body kit, a sport shifter and a novel feature that pumps engine roar through the audio speakers. Most of the enhanced trim found on the RE:FLEX is standard here too, except the seats are covered in premium vinyl instead of genuine leather.
Turbo
A more civilized version of the R-Spec with an available six-speed automatic transmission and not-so-raucous suspension and steering tuning. Leather upholstery comes standard, along with heated front seats with additional driver adjustments, keyless ignition and unique styling elements.
The Ultimate package tops off the Turbo with navigation, a panoramic sunroof, automatic headlamps, automatic climate control and the household-style power outlet.
Although the non-turbocharged models certainly look sporty, they offer only average performance. If you want moves to match the Veloster's style, upgrading to the Turbo R-Spec or Turbo is practically mandatory. Of those two, the slightly more expensive Turbo is easier to live with on a daily basis.
Choose your Hyundai Veloster »
