After numerous teasers and leaked photos, the 2019 Hyundai Veloster has made its official debut at the 2018 Detroit Auto Show.
The all-new Veloster and Veloster Turbo models will head to production starting March in Ulsan, Korea, before heading to North American dealerships in the second quarter of 2018. According to the Korean automaker, the Veloster’s fresh new design is the result of a collaborative effort between Hyundai designers from Seoul, South Korea, and the U.S. design center in Irvine, California. Along with a comprehensive exterior and interior redesign, the new Veloster also benefits from powertrain upgrades and new and improved infotainment and connectivity features.
While it does sport an all-new design, the Veloster retains its asymmetrical two-plus-one configuration that allows easier access to the rear seats. Up front, the available LED headlights and LED Daytime Running Lights flank a new grille design, while functional air curtains actually serve an aerodynamic purpose. Overall, the Veloster’s stance is more muscular, with available 18-inch wheels filling up the wheel openings. The roofline has also been lowered for a more distinctive coupe-like appearance, while the rear receives a more aggressive integrated diffuser design. LED tail lights are also available.
Powering the standard Veloster model is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle engine that delivers 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. The engine can be paired with either a six-speed manual or six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission. The Veloster Turbo retains its 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 201 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. There is an overboost function that raises peak torque to 202 lb-ft under maximum acceleration. Also available with a six-speed manual transmission, Veloster Turbo buyers can also opt for a seven-speed dual clutch transmission with wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
2018 Detroit Auto Show Coverage
All 2019 Hyundai Veloster models will offer Torque Vectoring Control (TVC), an active cornering feature that utilizes capabilities from the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and powertrain control systems to improve dynamic cornering. The system uses wheel-speed sensors along with ESC algorithms to apply precise braking force to the inside front wheel during cornering, while active braking redirects power to the outside front wheel in the turn. The result is a reduction in wheelspin for enhanced cornering grip and corner-exit acceleration. The Veloster Turbo features a quicker-ratio steering rack and a revised steering calibration to match, giving drivers precise cornering, feedback, and control.
Inside the cabin is a premium infotainment system with standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, while SiriusXM Radio, HD Radio, and next-generation Blue Link LTE-powered connectivity are available. Standard on the Veloster is a seven-inch color LCD, while an eight-inch touchscreen navigation display is available as an option. Also available is a heads-up display system and Qi wireless-charging capability.
The 2019 Hyundai Veloster will head to dealerships with a variety of colors: Ultra Black, Chalk White, Sonic Silver, Thunder Gray, Sunset Orange, Racing Red, and Space Grey. Interior options include cloth, cloth/leather combinations, and all leather.
Pricing for the 2019 Hyundai Veloster has not been announced.
“Our new 2019 Veloster represents an even more compelling offering for young and young-at- heart automotive enthusiasts with more expressive design, involving dynamics and cutting-edge infotainment features,” said Mike O’Brien, vice president of Product, Corporate and Digital Planning at Hyundai Motor America. “When combined with Hyundai’s outstanding value and efficiency, the new Veloster is sure to attract a progressive new group of enthusiast buyers.”
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