2016 Hyundai Veloster

What’s new for 2016

A new Rally Edition joins the 2016 Veloster lineup. It features a stiffer suspension, RAYS lightweight alloy wheels, and a B&M Racing sport shifter. Turbo trims now get an available 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, while all Veloster models now feature a revised hood and grille design, available Siri Eyes Free, and upgraded interiors. 

Like Nothing Else On the Road 

The Hyundai Veloster is not your typical car; not even close. It’s an amalgamation of style, utility, and performance wrapped into one sleek and sexy package. Buyers searching for the thrilling road manners of a coupe, but don’t want to sacrifice the utility of a sedan, will instantly fall for the Veloster’s unique three-door design and charming good looks.

And that’s just the beginning. We’d be fine with just the Veloster’s sumptuous sheet metal and performance-oriented looks but then Hyundai went and added a number of peppy powertrains, crisp handling, excellent fuel economy, and an agreeable price tag that will have you thinking there was some sort of disastrous mix up in accounting.

Performance

The front-wheel drive Veloster is powered by a standard 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that creates 132 horsepower and 120 pound-feet of torque when mated to the Veloster’s standard six-speed manual transmission. Drivers looking to hand over shifting duty can opt for an available six-speed Ecoshift® Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), complete with paddle shifters, that provides an extra sprinkle of sportiness.

Next up is a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder good for 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. It can be found living inside the Veloster Turbo, Turbo R-Spec, and new Rally Edition (more on these trims later). All come standard with a six-speed manual, however the Turbo is also available with a seven-speed DCT.  

On the road the Veloster handles itself extremely well. Sharp turns are taken with aplomb and the acceleration, especially in turbocharged models, is downright impressive. In fact, Hyundai’s turbocharged is so smooth, you’d be forgiven for thinking it was naturally aspirated.

All that performance doesn’t come at the expense of fuel economy either. The Veloster is as efficient as it is sporty, serving up 30 mpg combined (26 city/35 highway)* in its base form.

Features

The 2016 Hyundai Veloster is a three-door hatchback that comes in base, Turbo R-Spec, Turbo Rally Edition, and Turbo trims.

Starting MSRP for the base model Veloster is $18,000.* For that amount, drivers get a nicely equipped Hyundai that includes a seven-inch multimedia touchscreen, a rearview camera, six-way driver seat, and an Internet radio-ready stereo system, complete with CD player and six-speaker sound system.

Hyundai’s excellent BlueLink telematics system is also standard, and offers drivers (especially parents) a number of useful monitoring features for teenage drivers such as geo-fencing and speed and curfew limits. Slow down, kids!

The Veloster also offers buyers a number of packages and options to further deck out their ride. A Style Package adds a panoramic sunroof, 450-watt eight-speaker audio system, and leatherette surfaces, while the Veloster’s Technology package tosses in navigation, keyless entry, push-button start, backup warning sensors, and much, much more.

Design

Drivers and onlookers will take pleasure in the 2016 Hyundai Veloster’s  vibrant exteiror and stylish proportions. Every Veloster model features a low-slung body that mixes the best styling elements of a coupe and hatchback. The three-door design is especially convenient because, let's face it, everyone loves a two-door sports coupe until they draw the short straw and have to climb in and out of the back seat. 

Turbo models add further flair to the overall design with their gaping grille, standard fog lights, available re exterior accents, and larger twin tailpipes. And while 17-inch wheels are standard, opt for the Style Package and the available 18-inch alloys impart added athleticism. 

The Rally Edition model takes it a step further with 18-inch alloy wheels, unique matte blue paint, and unique carbon-fiber-look aero accents.

Inside, Hyundai pumps up the Veloster’s visual volume with an interior that is as tech-centric as it is tasteful. Here, occupants are treated to a large seven-inch touchscreen that houses the Veloster’s infotainment system, including its standard rearview camera display.

Button placement is essential to creating a comfortable cockpit and the Veloster manages this with buttons and dials that are within easy reach of both driver and passenger. The seats are another high note and provide ample back and body support. Despite the Veloster’s coupe-like proportions, the rear quarters prove a pleasant place to set up camp even during longer jaunts.

When it’s time to load up and ferry around luggage, groceries, or anything else your heart desires, the Veloster is more than willing to earn its keep, serving up 15.5 cubic feet of cargo capacity, with that number swelling to 34.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.

Safety

The 2016 Hyundai Veloster boasts a robust array of safety features. Available Torque Vectoring Control (TVC) monitors driving conditions and controls torque and braking force. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) enhances traction and road stability. While the Veloster’s Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), and Brake Assist (BA) all work together to help you avoid accidents and keep occupants safe. 

Bottom Line

The homogenization of automobiles means cars are now better than ever but it’s also reached a point where vehicles have become rather bland in their endless quest for efficiency. In the 2016 Hyundai Veloster, we have a car that dares to be different, and in doing so we’re left with a car that bets big and reaps the rewards.

If you never thought a car could be practical, fun, fuel-efficient, and look good – all at the same time – the Hyundai Veloster is here to change your mind. 

For more information, or to test drive the 2016 Hyundai Veloster for yourself, contact us online or visit Heritage Hyundai Towson at 801 York Road, Towson, MD 21204.

*2016 Veloster: 27 City/35 Hwy M/T and 28 City/36 Hwy DCT. 2016 Veloster Turbo: 25 City/33 Hwy M/T and 27 City/33 Hwy DCT. 2016 Veloster Turbo R-Spec: 25 City/33 Hwy M/T. 2016 Veloster Rally Edition: 25 City/33 Hwy/31 Combined M/T. EPA estimates. For comparison only. Your actual mileage may vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle's condition.

** MSRP excludes destination charges, tax, title, and license fees. Destination charges and actual dealer prices may vary. Vehicles displayed may contain optional equipment at additional cost.

Image Credit: Hyundai