The Hyundai Veloster N: A Hot Hatch with Bite
For driving enthusiasts seeking a sporty and practical option, the Hyundai Veloster N is a compelling choice. This unique three-door hatchback blends everyday usability with exhilarating performance, making it a true driver's car. This article delves into the Veloster N's key features, performance capabilities, and what makes it stand out in the hot hatch segment.
Standing Out from the Crowd
The Veloster N grabs attention with its unconventional design. It features a sleek, asymmetrical silhouette with two doors on the passenger side and a single door on the driver's side. This design might seem odd at first glance, but it offers improved driver ingress and egress, especially in tight parking spots. Beyond the doors, the Veloster N boasts aggressive styling cues that hint at its performance potential. These include a large front grille, functional aerodynamic elements like a carbon fiber front splitter and rear wing, and sporty 18-inch wheels.
The interior of the Veloster N is driver-focused and bolsters a sporty feel. Heated and ventilated Alcantara bucket seats with N logos provide excellent support during spirited driving. Aluminum pedals and a chunky N logo steering wheel further elevate the sporty ambiance. While the rear seats are best suited for occasional passengers or small children, the Veloster N offers surprising practicality for a performance car. The fold-down rear seats open up 19.9 cubic feet of cargo space, which can be expanded to 109.8 cubic feet with the seats folded.
Power and Performance Packed
Under the hood, the Veloster N packs a punch. Its 2.0L turbocharged inline-four-cylinder engine delivers a healthy 275 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. This potent engine propels the car from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 5.0 seconds with the optional eight-speed wet dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT). Opting for the six-speed manual transmission might shave a tenth of a second off that time, but it's the engagement and control it offers that truly appeals to driving purists.
The Veloster N's performance extends beyond straight-line acceleration. The car boasts a well-tuned suspension that delivers sharp handling and confidence-inspiring grip during cornering. The electronically controlled limited-slip differential (eLSD) further enhances handling by optimizing power delivery to the front wheels. Selectable drive modes allow you to tailor the car's character to your driving preferences. For everyday driving, there's Eco and Normal mode. When you want to unleash the Veloster N's full potential, Sport and N modes sharpen throttle response, tighten steering, and adjust the exhaust note for a more aggressive sound.
N mode deserves a special mention. This mode transforms the Veloster N into a track-focused machine. It activates Launch Control for optimal acceleration starts, engages N Grin Shift (NGS) for a temporary power boost, and even provides performance data on the instrument cluster to help you hone your driving skills.
Technology and Safety
The Veloster N isn't all about thrills; it incorporates a decent suite of tech features. An infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen display handles navigation, audio, and smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A premium sound system keeps you entertained on your drives, while a digital instrument cluster displays vital information like speed, RPMs, and N mode-specific data.
Safety features include forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and driver attention monitoring. These features provide peace of mind during everyday driving and help keep you safe on the road.
A compelling Value Proposition
The Hyundai Veloster N starts at an attractive price point, making it an excellent value proposition for the performance it offers. While competitors like the Honda Civic Type R and the Volkswagen Golf R might boast slightly more horsepower, the Veloster N holds its own in terms of performance and offers a unique package at a competitive price. The comprehensive warranty package offered by Hyundai further sweetens the deal, providing peace of mind for ownership.
Is the Hyundai Veloster N Right for You?
The Hyundai Veloster N is a compelling choice for drivers who seek a car that delivers both practicality and performance. Its unique design, thrilling driving experience, and surprisingly spacious cargo area make it a well-rounded package. If you're looking for a hot hatch that offers a standout design, sharp handling, and a fun driving experience, the Hyundai Veloster N is definitely worth considering. Test one out and see if this Korean hot hatch ignites your passion for driving.
