Here come the unique new Veloster. We have seen the camouflage version of this model for few times before. It is not difficult to identify this is the model behind the tapes and cover, due to its unique body shape.
I wonder how Hyundai can pass the pedestrian impact requirement during their crash test for frontal area. If you investigate the front bumper design, there are quite sharp edges which emphasizing the character line. It need to be more than certain radius to meet the pedestrian impact requirement for the design. Unless, Hyundai is not caring enough about crash rating, it will be a no matter case!
This car is full with 'sophistication'. Hyundai is pulling a very neat trick with its Veloster. The platform is said to be a carry over platform from Elantra sedan. It's a slightly larger car inside than the Scion tC (and Mini Clubman or Honda CR-Z hybrid). Yet thanks to a very low 1176 kg curb weight— approximately same weight with Proton Gen.2— it's said to get up to 17 km/litre from its directly injected, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. That would best Honda's CR-Z numbers without necessity of hybrid technology, and with the benefit of a bigger cabin.
One oddity: Access to the interior is a bit quirky, with one door panel on the left side, but both front and rear doors (two door panels) on the right side. This also allowing lesser investment of the tooling for rear door panel, door sash and trim parts. Remember that weight? Fewer doors allow a car maker to reduce structural reinforcements, and that keeps down bulk. And a low weight allows an increase in fun factor—indeed, Hyundai is promising greater sportiness than its rivals.
Can the Veloster "out-fun" a Mini? Hmm, we're not sure, but Hyundai is promising a tighter turning circle than even a base Mini Cooper and a sophisticated, buttoned-down-sounding suspension. Transmissions include Hyundai's first dual-clutch six speed (hopefully with paddles) or a six-speed manual. Pricing should be in the RM60,000 ($20,000) range in the U.S.
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