2019 Hyundai Veloster N Review
With choking traffic and a growing level of ineptitude from behind the wheel, driving is usually anything but an enjoyable experience. So as Americans we try and isolate ourselves in big SUVs and I get why. But when a hot little hatchback like this shows up the driver within is exhumed. This is the new Hyundai Veloster N and it’s the most new car fun you can have for under $30k.
Do you drive stick? Then you should drive this. It’s the only way it comes and with standard rev-matching and its satisfying operation, this is a 6-speed that makes the argument for those Save The Manual sycophants. My last go around in the new Veloster was the previous autumn with a Turbo R-Spec and it quickly became evident that this car was the real deal and ripe for the N treatment. It’s matured into a driver’s car whereas before it was mostly all show. Bigger engine, an electronically controlled suspension, better brakes and all kinds of N goodies, this is the Hyundai for driving enthusiasts but it’s polished and practical enough to work for you on an everyday basis. When driven in Eco or Normal modes this Veloster, with its quirky 3rd door, cargo-friendly hatch design, wealth of convenience amenities and 25mpg on regular gas makes for a happy go lucky daily driver that can ramp things up rather quickly on demand. And what I mean by that is in Sport and N modes the sounds get louder, the engine more eager, the steering heftier, suspension tauter, and electronic nannies dialed back. You can customize your own driving mode through these easy to use menus. In typical Hyundai fashion, the user interfaces are so simple to naviagte that it continues to boggle my mind why others haven’t just copied their formula.
When piloting a sports model the only thing the driver really wants is to feel connected to the car and in control and the Veloster N delivers those attributes in spades. I love how everything you touch works in concert with your desires. And this N mode is an absolute blast.
For $2,100, the Performance Package is a must. Horsepower from the 2.0-liter turbo rises from 250 to 275, you get these 19” wheels and Pirelli P Zero tires engineered specifically for the Veloster, a limited slip differential, upsized ventilated discs all around and the variable exhaust system that purrs like a cat at idle with some snap, crackle and pop when wide open. This is a bargain price for the offering, much like the car itself which totals only $29,920. If it wore a German badge it would cost $40,000.
Hyundai has really worked their magic here by producing an affordable, practical, fuel efficient ball of fun with some serious performance attributes. So buckle up because this is only the beginning of the N model lineup.
The company is on record as saying 5 N models are possible as attempt to take the brand in a sportier direction. And if the Veloster is any indication, the N future is very bright.
Off the line speed doesn’t knock your socks off but the 260 pound-feet of torque is easy to launch and you can measure your times here. I’ve been generally in the high 5s. But that’s not what this car is about. It’s a corner carver, with just a hint of torque steer and a torque vectoring system that works harmoniously with these exceptional Pirellis to keep understeer to a bare minimum. Lots of power in the midrange makes this engine a real winner replete with shift lights letting you know you’re getting close to the redline. Everything - from the ergonomics to the driver controls - has been sweated to the minutest detail. Note though, that the suspension tune goes to back breaker in the N setting – it’s extremely firm. In ECO and Normal, no worries. And it’s quite loud in here…highway driving gets tiring really fast.
This is the most fun I’ve had driving anything in a long time. The Veloster N is cheap thrills with expensive engineering. Brilliantly done with everything you’d want in a hot hatch including a great shifter and clutch combo that’s fluid and easy to engage, road carving handling, exceptional grip and steering and brakes that put you fully in control. And this N mode is nuts with the popping exhaust sounds and the most brittle ride you can find. Would a little more power be nice? Of course. But this go cart is so good you won’t even care. And it’s less than $30k.
I love having the N switchgear perfectly placed on the steering wheel so switching modes is super simple. And look at how cool these menus are for changing individual characteristics. A big bassy stereo sound is included, and connectivity is totally modern and up to speed.
Starting at $27,820 but in very limited supply, this car comes in 4 colors and looks completely bad ass in Chalk White. Blue seat belts are standard. If you can find one, get it.
Do you drive stick? Then you should drive this. It’s the only way it comes and with standard rev-matching and its satisfying operation, this is a 6-speed that makes the argument for those Save The Manual sycophants. My last go around in the new Veloster was the previous autumn with a Turbo R-Spec and it quickly became evident that this car was the real deal and ripe for the N treatment. It’s matured into a driver’s car whereas before it was mostly all show. Bigger engine, an electronically controlled suspension, better brakes and all kinds of N goodies, this is the Hyundai for driving enthusiasts but it’s polished and practical enough to work for you on an everyday basis. When driven in Eco or Normal modes this Veloster, with its quirky 3rd door, cargo-friendly hatch design, wealth of convenience amenities and 25mpg on regular gas makes for a happy go lucky daily driver that can ramp things up rather quickly on demand. And what I mean by that is in Sport and N modes the sounds get louder, the engine more eager, the steering heftier, suspension tauter, and electronic nannies dialed back. You can customize your own driving mode through these easy to use menus. In typical Hyundai fashion, the user interfaces are so simple to naviagte that it continues to boggle my mind why others haven’t just copied their formula.
When piloting a sports model the only thing the driver really wants is to feel connected to the car and in control and the Veloster N delivers those attributes in spades. I love how everything you touch works in concert with your desires. And this N mode is an absolute blast.
For $2,100, the Performance Package is a must. Horsepower from the 2.0-liter turbo rises from 250 to 275, you get these 19” wheels and Pirelli P Zero tires engineered specifically for the Veloster, a limited slip differential, upsized ventilated discs all around and the variable exhaust system that purrs like a cat at idle with some snap, crackle and pop when wide open. This is a bargain price for the offering, much like the car itself which totals only $29,920. If it wore a German badge it would cost $40,000.
Hyundai has really worked their magic here by producing an affordable, practical, fuel efficient ball of fun with some serious performance attributes. So buckle up because this is only the beginning of the N model lineup.
The company is on record as saying 5 N models are possible as attempt to take the brand in a sportier direction. And if the Veloster is any indication, the N future is very bright.
Off the line speed doesn’t knock your socks off but the 260 pound-feet of torque is easy to launch and you can measure your times here. I’ve been generally in the high 5s. But that’s not what this car is about. It’s a corner carver, with just a hint of torque steer and a torque vectoring system that works harmoniously with these exceptional Pirellis to keep understeer to a bare minimum. Lots of power in the midrange makes this engine a real winner replete with shift lights letting you know you’re getting close to the redline. Everything - from the ergonomics to the driver controls - has been sweated to the minutest detail. Note though, that the suspension tune goes to back breaker in the N setting – it’s extremely firm. In ECO and Normal, no worries. And it’s quite loud in here…highway driving gets tiring really fast.
This is the most fun I’ve had driving anything in a long time. The Veloster N is cheap thrills with expensive engineering. Brilliantly done with everything you’d want in a hot hatch including a great shifter and clutch combo that’s fluid and easy to engage, road carving handling, exceptional grip and steering and brakes that put you fully in control. And this N mode is nuts with the popping exhaust sounds and the most brittle ride you can find. Would a little more power be nice? Of course. But this go cart is so good you won’t even care. And it’s less than $30k.
I love having the N switchgear perfectly placed on the steering wheel so switching modes is super simple. And look at how cool these menus are for changing individual characteristics. A big bassy stereo sound is included, and connectivity is totally modern and up to speed.
Starting at $27,820 but in very limited supply, this car comes in 4 colors and looks completely bad ass in Chalk White. Blue seat belts are standard. If you can find one, get it.
2019 Hyundai Veloster R-Spec Review
I like cars that you don’t see everywhere. Something a little quirky with under the radar exclusivity is always cool with me. And that’s how I’d characterize the Veloster. A sporty little coupe with a 3rd door, Hyundai’s latest version is pure fun on the cheap.
Introduced 7 years ago in Detroit, the original Veloster was targeted at the Gen Y crowd with MINI Cooper-like driving dynamics and a funky 3rd door on the passenger side. With a starting price of around $17,000 and netting 30mpg, the Veloster was a refreshing new entry into the suddenly red-hot compact car segment. Flash ahead to the 2019 model year and this all-new Veloster is exactly what you’d want from a next generation car. More chiseled. More polished. More fun. The Veloster remains a compelling choice for car shoppers with a youthful spirit and a desire to maximize their dollar.
This R-Spec model sits right in the middle of the 5 Veloster offerings which still starts at under $20,000. The base models get a new 2.0-liter engine but starting at R-Spec and up the familiar 1.6-liter twin-scroll turbo carries over still producing the same 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, though the power is available earlier in the RPM range. And for the purists, the R-Spec comes only one way - with a 6-speed manual – Hyundai’s in-house designed short throw gearbox fitted exclusively with a B&M Racing Sport Shifter. The biggest mechanical upgrade comes in moving away from the torsion beam rear suspension to an independent multi-link design for improved handling. Unique sport-tuned steering, lighter suspension and bigger exhaust sound are all R-Spec standards as are a serious set of Michelin performance tires. R-Spec now includes more creature comforts as well such as proximity key, push button start, and excellent touchscreen infotainment. Special cloth seating and a multitude of R-Spec design cues both inside and out flaunt this racier Veloster’s attitude. Size and weight are similar to before.
On summer tires and with the tauter sport suspension the R-Spec is a car I always look forward to driving. What the steering lacks in feeling it makes up for in its quickness so the R-Spec turns like a go cart and the clutch and shifter combo works fluidly though this aluminum ball can get really cold or hot I imagine. Torque steer in kept to a minimum, torque vectoring minimizes Understeer and the seats hold you firmly in place. Could I use more engine? Absolutely. First and 2nd gear2 are pretty gutless but once this turbo gets up to speed the fun really kicks in.
Though not radically different on paper, this Veloster feels more hooked up if you will, with excellent grip and a very willing nature. A Sport mode further energizes the engine and steering. The body feels more solid and the fun-to-drive factor has been significantly raised. Even with an overboost function delivering 202 pound-feet of torque under maximum acceleration It’s not that fast and despite the adjustable engine sounds it doesn’t make much of a visceral impression, but for $23,785 as-tested it’s an appropriate package. If you drive it and are left wanting more the new high performance Veloster N is right around the corner. The R-Spec happily takes regular unleaded returning 26mpg city/33mpg highway so there’s fun and efficiency in spades.
The most important takeaways from my Veloster experience are how well engineered it feels and how much more spacious it is than it appears. It’s not only a blast to drive but with its third door and a deep cargo area this is a coupe that can handle the rigors of everyday life. And you’re going to love the mileage.
Coupes can be difficult if there’re more than 2 of you, but this clever 3rd door opens to a very usable rear seat for 2 more. This isn’t the cramped rear quarters of a Mustang or Camaro – the Veloster’s back seats are the rear deal. You can access them from both sides but the door is the way to go. The cargo room is also surprisingly large with nearly 20 cubic feet behind the upright 2nd row – beating out the MINI Clubman.
LED lighting, high beam assist, 8” touchscreen with CarPlay and Android Auto, and a high quality driver display make a premium impression and on the safety front there’s collision-avoidance assist, lane keep assist and driver attention warning but not the most important feature – blind spot warning. The cabin looks really cool and feels quality-driven.
As an everyday driver, you have to appreciate a ride quality with feeling and not shy away from a little noise in the cabin. You’d also have to invest in a set of winter rubber if you live where it gets cold. Otherwise, the new Veloster R-Spec cuts a sharp appearance and is ready to impress.
Introduced 7 years ago in Detroit, the original Veloster was targeted at the Gen Y crowd with MINI Cooper-like driving dynamics and a funky 3rd door on the passenger side. With a starting price of around $17,000 and netting 30mpg, the Veloster was a refreshing new entry into the suddenly red-hot compact car segment. Flash ahead to the 2019 model year and this all-new Veloster is exactly what you’d want from a next generation car. More chiseled. More polished. More fun. The Veloster remains a compelling choice for car shoppers with a youthful spirit and a desire to maximize their dollar.
This R-Spec model sits right in the middle of the 5 Veloster offerings which still starts at under $20,000. The base models get a new 2.0-liter engine but starting at R-Spec and up the familiar 1.6-liter twin-scroll turbo carries over still producing the same 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, though the power is available earlier in the RPM range. And for the purists, the R-Spec comes only one way - with a 6-speed manual – Hyundai’s in-house designed short throw gearbox fitted exclusively with a B&M Racing Sport Shifter. The biggest mechanical upgrade comes in moving away from the torsion beam rear suspension to an independent multi-link design for improved handling. Unique sport-tuned steering, lighter suspension and bigger exhaust sound are all R-Spec standards as are a serious set of Michelin performance tires. R-Spec now includes more creature comforts as well such as proximity key, push button start, and excellent touchscreen infotainment. Special cloth seating and a multitude of R-Spec design cues both inside and out flaunt this racier Veloster’s attitude. Size and weight are similar to before.
On summer tires and with the tauter sport suspension the R-Spec is a car I always look forward to driving. What the steering lacks in feeling it makes up for in its quickness so the R-Spec turns like a go cart and the clutch and shifter combo works fluidly though this aluminum ball can get really cold or hot I imagine. Torque steer in kept to a minimum, torque vectoring minimizes Understeer and the seats hold you firmly in place. Could I use more engine? Absolutely. First and 2nd gear2 are pretty gutless but once this turbo gets up to speed the fun really kicks in.
Though not radically different on paper, this Veloster feels more hooked up if you will, with excellent grip and a very willing nature. A Sport mode further energizes the engine and steering. The body feels more solid and the fun-to-drive factor has been significantly raised. Even with an overboost function delivering 202 pound-feet of torque under maximum acceleration It’s not that fast and despite the adjustable engine sounds it doesn’t make much of a visceral impression, but for $23,785 as-tested it’s an appropriate package. If you drive it and are left wanting more the new high performance Veloster N is right around the corner. The R-Spec happily takes regular unleaded returning 26mpg city/33mpg highway so there’s fun and efficiency in spades.
The most important takeaways from my Veloster experience are how well engineered it feels and how much more spacious it is than it appears. It’s not only a blast to drive but with its third door and a deep cargo area this is a coupe that can handle the rigors of everyday life. And you’re going to love the mileage.
Coupes can be difficult if there’re more than 2 of you, but this clever 3rd door opens to a very usable rear seat for 2 more. This isn’t the cramped rear quarters of a Mustang or Camaro – the Veloster’s back seats are the rear deal. You can access them from both sides but the door is the way to go. The cargo room is also surprisingly large with nearly 20 cubic feet behind the upright 2nd row – beating out the MINI Clubman.
LED lighting, high beam assist, 8” touchscreen with CarPlay and Android Auto, and a high quality driver display make a premium impression and on the safety front there’s collision-avoidance assist, lane keep assist and driver attention warning but not the most important feature – blind spot warning. The cabin looks really cool and feels quality-driven.
As an everyday driver, you have to appreciate a ride quality with feeling and not shy away from a little noise in the cabin. You’d also have to invest in a set of winter rubber if you live where it gets cold. Otherwise, the new Veloster R-Spec cuts a sharp appearance and is ready to impress.