By Mauricio Lezcano / carsntravel.com / Photos Hyundai Motor America
The Hyundai Veloster Turbo models have increased standard equipment and enhanced key exterior design elements for the 2020 model year.
Exterior
The Veloster merges the design appeal of a sport coupe with the versatility of an additional passenger side rear door in an asymmetrical two-plus-one configuration for easier rear-seat access. From the front, the LED headlights and LED Daytime Running Lights flank a striking grille design, functional air curtains add both a visual design cue and an active aerodynamic function. The signature cascade grille shape has morphed into a strong, three-dimensional design that sets the sport coupe apart.
Much of the design is derived from enhanced proportions and volume; the shape clearly conveys focused dynamic performance, even standing still. Its stance is more muscular, with higher volume fenders and wheel arches for a more planted appearance. The cowl point and A-pillar are further rearward and now connect the hood line and belt line into an integrated, powerful gesture. The 18-inch alloy wheels aggressively fill the wheelhouse openings. Further, the roofline offers a unique profile and a distinctive coupe-inspired essence. The fender line is also coupe-like, and the rear has an aggressive integrated diffuser design.
Interior
The asymmetrical design carries through to the interior, with a driver-focused interior layout, a contrasting color environment that visually separates the driving cockpit. Each trim level has unique colors, materials, and accents, further differentiating each model with varying hues and textures. In addition to these new colors and textures, the new Veloster also offers generous rear cargo capacity, with 19.9 cubic feet of interior volume behind the 2nd row seat.
Veloster offers a full suite of sophisticated technologies paired with user-friendly functionality to keep passengers informed and entertained. The premium infotainment system offers various advanced connectivity features, including standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Also available are SiriusXM Radio, HD Radio and next-generation Blue Link LTE-powered connectivity. The standard seven-inch color LCD display includes AM/FM/MP3 touchscreen audio, auxiliary inputs, and Rear-View Monitor. The available floating-design eight-inch touchscreen navigation display includes next generation Blue Link, traffic flow and incident data via HD radio, and Infinity premium audio with eight speakers, including a subwoofer and Clari-Fi music-restoration technology.
A Heads-Up Display system is available, projecting a virtual image onto the transparent panel mounted behind the instrument panel and helping the driver to keep his or her eyes on the road. Information projected includes speed, navigation instructions, cruise control, Lane Departure Warning, Blind-Spot Collision Warning and audio system information. When in Sport mode, the system projects more driver-focused information including RPM, MPH and transmission gear. Deployed vertically by a simple touch of a button beside the steering wheel, the display disappears into the dashboard when not in use.
Performance
Under the hood, the Veloster Turbo Ultimate features a 1.6-liter turbocharged, direct-injected four-cylinder engine that produces 201 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 195 lb.-ft. of torque from 1,500-4,500 rpm, paired with a seven-speed dual clutch transmission. The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission features steering wheel-mounted paddle-shifters and SHIFTRONIC transmission gear control. In addition, all Veloster Turbo models feature Active Engine Sound, which enhances intake and exhaust powertrain sound character inside the cabin for a more visceral driving experience, especially during spirited driving.
All A/T and DCT models also offer three selectable driving modes, including Normal, Sport and Smart, according to driver preferences for engine, transmission and steering feel. The Smart mode varies within the range of settings according to how the vehicle is currently being driven.
Summary
Veloster’s compelling combination of performance with efficiency is a formula many industry competitors are seeking to duplicate. Hyundai’s development focus on all the factors of efficient performance, such as small-displacement turbocharged engines, dual-clutch transmissions, comprehensive light-weighting, efficient aerodynamics; The new 2020 Hyundai Veloster Turbo Ultimate represents an even more compelling offering for young and young-at-heart automotive enthusiasts with more expressive design, involving dynamics and cutting-edge infotainment features.
The manufacturer’s suggested retail price starts at $29,215.00 for the 2020 Hyundai Veloster Turbo Ultimate including inland freight and handling $930.00. The EPA fuel economy estimates 28 MPG City and 34 MPG Highway with the 1.6L Turbo GDI 4 Cylinder engine and the 7-Speed Dual Clutch Transmission.
mlezcano@carsntravel.com
