prominent diffuser vents in the lower fascia.
With fuel economy of 26/38 mpg and a 0-60 mph clocking of 6.9 seconds, the 2013 Hyundai Veloster just may be the best sport coupe compact on the market today. I especially like the front end styling and the three-door hatchback design.
The new Veloster now has a 1.6-liter 201 hp Turbocharged-Gasoline Direct Injection (T-GDI) engine option that makes it a more powerful, high-tech and fuel-efficient vehicle and more attractive to the next generation of young buyers. The Veloster Turbo is a much needed addition as it competes in a segment that includes such hot machines as the Volkswagen GTI, Honda Civic Si and Mini Cooper/Clubman S.
Hyundai says Veloster Turbo has a better power-to-weight ratio than its competition and comes with a unique sport-tuned steering and suspension hardware set. Only key components in the steering were upgraded for the Veloster Turbo, which has a quicker ratio steering rack and a revised steering calibration to match, delivering precise cornering, feedback and control. The Turbo rides on Kumho Solus KH25 215/40R18 85V tires designed to deliver the best performance without compromising the ride.
All Velosters are fitted with a McPherson strut front suspension, coil springs, gas shock absorbers and a 24 mm diameter front stabilizer. The rear suspension is a light-weight V-torsion beam, with an integrated stabilizer bar to allow bracing of the arms for greater stiffness and to further control body roll. The rear suspension also uses monotube shock absorbers for ride comfort.
All Velosters have electric power steering that adjusts assistance instantly to changing driving conditions while improving fuel economy over a conventional steering system. Veloster has a turning diameter of 34.1 feet, as compared with Mini’s 35.1 feet.
As for design, the Veloster Turbo is a stylish with its bold hexagonal front grille, sculpted side skirts and dynamic rear bumper with prominent diffuser vents in the lower fascia. It’s available in a unique Matte Gray paint and a set of 18-inch gray wheels with chrome inserts completes the styling.
Inside, full leather seats with the word “Turbo” stitched into the seatbacks help deliver a unique look and provide excellent support and comfort. An exclusive Supervision Cluster offers the driver information in a larger, clearer and more interactive format, thanks to the Cluster’s two TFT screens located between the tachometer and the speedometer. Heated front seats are also standard on the Turbo. The center stack and controls resemble a sport bike fuel tank and incorporate a push button starter and alloy pedals.
Pricing on the 2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo starts at $22,725, about $2,500 more than the base Veloster.
Grant Miller is the publisher of Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277 or by addressing email to Grant@CommunityNewspapers.com
