The Hyundai Veloster 1.6 GDi
Hyundai’s new Veloster is one of the most distinctive cars around. Aiming to combine the style of a coupe with the practicality of a hatchback we find out if it lives up to that promise
What is it? Pioneering the three door approach the Hyundai’s Veloster is a very clever piece of design. On the driver’s side there is one door in keeping with a coupe but on the passenger side there are two doors so in essence it is a four door hatchback. This sleek and low slung coupe is one of the most interesting cars around.
Who is it aimed at? Perfect for two the Veloster has a decent boot and is the ideal car for disappearing into the sunset. Space in the back is tight so its best not to extend invites to friends!
Styling? Not nearly as “girly” as the original coupe, the sharp looks of the Veloster adds more overall appeal. We think the sleek lines, bold bumper design and muscular wheel arches will attract a host of new fans.
Under the Bonnet? The Veloster is powered by a 1.6-litre, four-cylinder GDI petrol engine. This generates a decent 103kW (138bhp) although not swift by any measure, the Coupe goes from 0– 100 km at a very leisurely 9.7 seconds.
What’s it like inside? Inside the interior, although nicely styled, is not as imaginative as the radical exterior looks would suggest. The driving position is good although the steering wheel is a little on the large size but everything is in its place and within easy reach.
On the Road? On the road the Veloster never lives up to its sports car looks but it’s reasonably good to drive and handles well with good levels of grip and traction. There are better handling rivals and the ride is firm, bordering on harsh, but overall the Veloster is fun to drive. Refinement could be better though and the engine is noisy when pushed and is noticeable in the cabin at high speeds.
And Safety? Safety is to the fore in the Veloster and the car is brimming with passive and active safety aids that are designed to both prevent a collision but also in the case of the unthinkable keep you safely rooted to the road. Active safety features, include ESC (electronic stability Control), ABS (anti-lock braking system) and VSM (vehicle stability management).
Options? The is just one version of the Veloster on offer but standard equipment is generous and includes 17-inch alloy wheels, a 7-inch TFT touch screen media centre (with capability of playing games through consoles and films from smartphones), Bluetooth connectivity with voice recognition, climate control air-conditioning, reversing sensors, front fog lights and striking LED daytime running lights.
How about Fuel Economy? Thanks to a host of fuel saving aids such as Intelligent Stop & Go (ISG) technology and low rolling-resistance tyres the combined fuel economy is 5.9 litres per 100 km while CO2 emissions are 137 g/km so it qualifies for Band B annual motor tax (€225).
Okay so the verdict? At €24,995 the Veloster is very good value. Not as sharp or as sporty a drive as the sleek styling would suggest but overall it is fun to drive and guarantees sports car looks without the second mortgage.
Why you’ll buy one? A very clever piece of design; Radical exterior styling; Well priced
Why you won’t? Headroom is tight; Engine lacks power; Drive could be better
Rivals
VW Scirocco 1.4TSI 122BHP BMT Sport Petrol €26,745
Opel Astra GTC 1.6i 16v Turbo (180PS) €26495
Renault Megane coupe 1.5 dCi 90 €22,690
Factfile
Hyundai Veloster 1.6 GDi
Engine: 1591cc, (103 kW) @ 6300 rpm, 167 Nm @ 4850 rpm
Max speed: 202 km
0-100km/h: 9.7 seconds
Emissions (motor tax): 137g/km (€ 225)
Starting price: €24,999
Model price range: €24,999
No of Doors: 4
Euro NCAP: 5 stars
Fuel type: Petrol
Fuel Economy (combined cycle): 5.9 litres per 100 km
Boot Capacity Seats up: 320 litres
Car Seats: Isofix points for two car seats in the back, both simple to access thanks to the extra door
Length: 4220mm
Width: 1790mm
Height: 1399mm
Wheelbase: 2650mm
For more information check out Hyundai.ie or the Hyundai Ireland Facebook page
18th July, 2012
