The all-new 2018 Hyundai Veloster range has been unveiled at the North American International Auto Show. Four trim levels were announced - Veloster, Veloster Turbo, Veloster R-Spec and the new flagship Veloster N.
To read more about the Veloster N performance variant, click here!
The updated range brings a refreshed exterior and interior, updated powertrain as well as a host of improved infotainment and connectivity features.
Due to begin production in March, and available in Australia from the second half of 2018, the new Veloster range offers a compelling option for young and young-at-heart automotive enthusiasts according to the Vice President of Product, Corporate and Digital Planning at Hyundai Motor America, Mr Mike O’Brien.
Synonymous with the Veloster design is the asymmetrical two-plus-one configuration which allows easier access to the rear seats. For 2018 the outside of the Veloster will feature LED headlights and LED Daytime Running Lights, a new grille, functional air curtains, higher-volume fenders and wheel arches, redesigned cowl point and A-pillar, 18-inch alloy wheels, lowered roofline, coupe-like fender line, aggressive integrated diffuser and LED taillights.
A full darkened roof treatment is also available as the Veloster’s rear design incorporates a distinctive glass hatch and centre-fascia chrome exhaust tips with either a single outlet (2.0-litre model) or dual-outlets (Turbo model).
Inside the Veloster, a driver-focused layout incorporates unique colours, materials and accents specific to each trim level. The Turbo model also adds a contrasting colour environment which makes the distinction between the driving cockpit and the rest of the interior.
Powering the new Veloster range are two engines, the first is a 2.0 litre 4-cylinder engine using the Atkinson-cycle which delivers an estimated 110kW/179Nm. The Nu 2.0-litre engine uses Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing, an electronic throttle control, variable induction and innovative anti-friction coatings. It also offers three driving modes - Normal, Sport and Smart.
The other engine option is a 1.6-litre turbocharged, direct-injected four-cylinder engine producing 150kW/264Nm. There is an additional over-boost function that raises the peak torque output to 274Nm with maximum acceleration.
Completing the drivetrains is the option of a six-speed manual or six-speed electronically-controlled automatic transmission for the 2.0-litre engine with the option of a standard six-speed manual or seven-speed dual clutch transmission for the 1.6-litre engine. The seven-speed dual-clutch option also features paddle-shifters on the steering wheel and SHIFTRONIC transmission gear control. All Veloster models remain front-wheel drive.
All Veloster Turbo models also feature Active Sound Design which enhances intake and exhaust powertrain sound character inside the cabin for a more visceral driving experience, especially during spirited driving.
Torque Vectoring Control (TVC) is offered on all Veloster models for enhanced cornering capability as well as a quicker-ratio steering rack and revised steering calibration on the Veloster Turbo models.
Veloster Turbo models are also fitted with a McPherson strut front suspension, coil springs, gas shock absorbers, front stabiliser bar and lightweight independent multi-link rear suspension with stabiliser bar.
Many advanced safety features are offered on the new Veloster models which include standard Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), High Beam Assist (HBA) for the available LED headlights, Driver Attention Warning (DAW), available Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW), Rear Cross-Traffic Collison Warning (RCCW) and for the Veloster Turbo, Smart Cruise Control.
Other features found on the Veloster models include rearview camera with dynamic guidelines, Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) system, six airbags— including dual front, front seat-mounted side-impact, and front and rear side curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes and an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) including Brake Assist and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).
With safety features covered infotainment and connectivity are taken care of by way of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM Radio, HD Radio and next-generation Blue Link LTE-powered connectivity displayed on a standard 7-inch colour LCD touchscreen display with AM/FM/MP3 touchscreen audio, auxiliary input jacks, and Rear View Monitor.
An 8-inch floating-design touchscreen navigation display with next-generation Blue Link, traffic flow and incident data via HD radio, and Infinity premium audio with eight speakers, including a subwoofer and Clari-Fi music-restoration technology is also available. A head-up display will also feature on the spec sheet.
The Veloster also offers wireless smartphone charging for compatible devices.
Australian specifications and pricing are yet to be confirmed.
More: All News
More: 2018 Hyundai Veloster N
