Hyundai took the wraps off the all-new version of its Veloster hatchback at the Detroit auto show.
As with the original version, the 2019 Veloster has three doors, with the right-side rear door allowing access to the back seat. The redesigned version rides on an all-new platform, and has grown slightly bigger.
Hyundai says the roofline is a bit lower, fenders are more aggressive, and there's an available blacked-out roof option.
Hyundai will once again give buyers the choice of two different engines for the front-drive sports coupe. But instead of the previous 1.6-liter base four-cylinder, the new car will come with a 2.0-liter with 147 horsepower, giving a slight bump in power over the previous engine, which we said was only "adequate" in our testing. The transmission choices include a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic.
Stepping up to the Veloster Turbo brings the same 201 horsepower, 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder as it had before, mated to either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. Hyundai says the Veloster Turbo is equipped with Active Sound Design, which Hyundai says will enhance the engine and exhaust note. The Turbo's steering and suspension are tuned for sportier driving dynamics. If you want a even more serious ride, a lighter, de-contented R-Spec Turbo also will be in the lineup.
The ultimate Veloster will be the Veloster N, a high-performance model akin to the Honda Civic Type R. The Veloster N is distinguished from the other versions with an exclusive grille and brake ducts to aid cooling. Underhood is a 275-horsepower, 2.0-liter engine backed by a six-speed manual transmission. The suspension, steering, and brakes are all tuned for this special, track-inspired model.
We enjoyed the last Veloster's responsive handling, but we found the ride to be quite stiff. We're itching to see if Hyundai has been able to refine the suspension while still keeping its spirited driving demeanor.
Check out CR's complete coverage of the 2018 Detroit Auto Show.
The totally redesigned interior features a seven-inch color touch-screen infotainment display along with standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. Shoppers who order navigation get an eight-inch touch screen. Wireless phone charging capability is available, as is a head-up display system.
Hyundai is making automatic emergency braking and forward-collision warning standard on all trim levels of the Veloster, which we welcome, especially because neither system was available on the previous version. Other available advanced safety systems include blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and lane-keeping assist.
Hyundai says the new Veloster will hit dealers this spring.
Read the latest Hyundai Veloster road test.
