The Hyundai Veloster was new for 2012 and immediately drew attention with its unique three-door design. The new 2013 turbocharged version makes the car much faster and lots more fun.
Rivals for the turbocharged front-wheel-drive Veloster include the Volkswagen GTI, Civic Si, Mini Cooper/Clubman S, Beetle Turbo and Fiat 500 Abarth. Hyundai notes the Veloster, with such things as its three doors, is "purposefully differentiated from other core vehicles in Hyundai's lineup, with unique style and function and advanced technologies."
Hyundai hasn't become a major sales success without taking chances.
The turbocharger is the big news for the latest version of the Veloster. This turbo has a twin-scroll design for quicker response and more low-end torque. The engine also has dual continuously variable valve timing and an intercooler for better performance and fuel economy.
While the standard Veloster is fast enough for many folks, addition of a turbocharger significantly increases horsepower of the car's regular 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. It jumps from 138 to 201 horsepower. Torque also increases to 195 pound-feet from 123 pound-feet.
The added punch give the Veloster Turbo a sharp new personality, I found during a media preview of the car in La Jolla, Calif. The increased power and torque allow faster acceleration and much less shifting with the standard, slick six-speed manual transmission. The responsive six-speed automatic has a manual-shift mode.
Serious bumps and potholes cause jolts, but the sport suspension is generally supple. There's also sport speed-tuned steering. Handling is sharp, and the anti-lock all-disc braking system with electronic brake-force distribution inspires confidence. The brake pedal has a progressive action for smooth stops.
Helping keep the car on the road during difficult situations are electronic stability and traction controls.
The small engine has lots of punch for its size, but keep in mind the rigidly built Veloster only weighs approximately 2,800 pounds.
Estimated fuel economy is 26 miles per gallon in the city and 38 on highways-and only regular grade fuel is needed.
The Veloster with the six-speed manual transmission lists at $21,950 and at $22,950 with the automatic-without a $775 freight charge.
More Pictures of 2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo
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