The 2014 Hyundai Veloster rides on a platform loosely based on the Elantra sedan, but all similarities end there. The new car is not only a visual departure from the rest of the Hyundai lineup, it is a segment-defining look sure to draw lots of attention.
One of its most obvious attributes is its unusual door design, with a single large door on the driver's side and two smaller doors for passengers on the opposite. Beyond that, the Veloster is a sporty hatchback powered by a choice between a pair of 1.6L direct-injected engines. The standard unit features continuously variable valves, helping to produce 138 horsepower and return an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city and 37 mpg highway. The turbocharged engine produces 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, while still achieving 24 mpg city and 35 mpg highway.
A standard 6-speed manual transmission puts power to the front wheels. A dual-clutch 6-speed EcoShift automatic with paddle shifters and hill-assist is optional.
The Veloster is available in three trims, Base, Turbo and Turbo R-Spec. Base Velosters come with heated power side mirrors, 17-inch alloy wheels, a dual-centered chrome-tipped exhaust and a rear spoiler with LED brake light incorporated into it. The Veloster Turbo distinguishes itself with a unique front fascia, sport tuned steering, projection headlights, mirror-located turn signals, 18-inch alloy wheels and fog lights.
Inside, the Veloster comes standard with air conditioning, power accessories, tilt/telescopic steering wheel, a 6-speaker CD/MP3 stereo, a 7-inch high-resolution LCD touchscreen, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity and Hyundai's Blue Link, a telematics system that allows for location sharing and hands-free texting, as well as remotely locking or starting the car and flicking the lights to help you find it in a parking lot. As a safety feature, the system also includes SOS Emergence Assistance, which detects when you have been involved in a collision, then requests help.
Veloster Turbos come with a few additional interior features, most notably leather seats, a graphite black interior theme with blue accents and heated seating surfaces for front seat occupants.
Turbo R-Spec is new model for 2014. It features the standard Turbo's turbocharged 1.6L engine mated to the 6-speed manual transmission, with no available automatic. The R-Spec gets some chassis upgrades, including stiffer springs, tuned steering and a B&M racing shifter. The R-Spec also loses the standard proximity key system, heated seats and leather.
Popular options on the base Veloster include automatic headlights, 18-inch wheels, a panoramic sliding sunroof, navigation, a big stereo and leather seating. For those looking to stand out, the Veloster Turbo is available with a very trick matte gray paint job, further differentiating the Veloster from just about every other car on the road.
Like all Hyundais, the Veloster emphasizes safety, with stability control, traction control, stability management, anti-lock brakes, a tire pressure monitor and a full host of airbags.
The Veloster adds a Turbo R-Spec model aimed at buyers who would prefer more performance at the cost of some luxury and convenience features. It's priced about $1000 lower than the standard Turbo model.
The other Turbo models get some stability control and exhaust tweaks intended to make it appeal more to sports car enthusiasts as well as newly optional automatic climate control.
The RE:MIX Veloster does not return for 2014.
Hyundai is blurring class lines with the Veloster. It's got two doors like a coupe yet it's shaped like a hatchback. No matter what it's called, the Veloster is designed to win over just about everyone. With attractive and unique asymmetrical styling and a sporty demeanor, the Veloster is loaded with standard features that set it apart. Add to that best-in-class interior volume and high-quality materials, with a base price just over $17,000, and the Hyundai Veloster is hard to beat.
