In 2011, Hyundai Motor introduced the VELOSTER and VELOSTER Turbo, marking a departure from conventional design with their unique configuration of two doors on the right side and one on the left. This distinctive style quickly attracted a devoted fan base. The vehicle boasted Hyundai’s pioneering dual-clutch transmission and, in 2013, the car incorporated the cutting-edge Beats audio sound system. Let’s go through the Hyundai Veloster history in detail.
Hyundai Veloster History Timeline
The history of Hyundai Veloster boasts two generations. The VELOSTER Turbo Model made its debut in 2012, featuring a Gamma Turbo GDi engine. Then, in 2018, Hyundai introduced the second-generation VELOSTER. This Hyundai Veloster generation presented an even more enticing option for both young and young-at-heart automotive enthusiasts. Let’s go through the Hyundai Veloster history timeline in detail.
Hyundai Veloster First Generation (2011-2017)
The first-generation Hyundai Veloster introduced in 2011 was produced until 2017. Hyundai introduced the Veloster in 2011 as a fresh contender in the hot-hatch market, utilising the same platform found in the Accent and the i20.
As car manufacturers explore new vehicle types to uncover fresh market opportunities, some, like SUV-coupe shapes, thrive, while others, like coupe-MPVs, falter. Timing also plays a crucial role in a vehicle’s success. Hyundai capitalised on the opportune moment in 2011 with the Veloster, a hatchback with a distinctive appearance.
Unlike most hatchbacks with three or five doors, including the tailgate, the Veloster featured four doors, two on the driver’s side and one on the passenger’s side.
As Hyundai Veloster history has it, this layout not only contributed to its sporty aesthetic but also provided convenience, especially for rear passengers, who could exit away from traffic, offering peace of mind for parents.
Inside, the Veloster sported a dashboard reminiscent of the i30 but with a distinctive V-shaped centre stack, paying homage to its namesake. The bucket seats offered substantial bolstering, ensuring excellent side support for occupants. While the sloped roof limited headroom for adults in the rear, it remained sufficient for children, surpassing the space constraints of traditional coupes or its predecessor, the Tiburon.
The Veloster was offered with a range of engines depending on the market, including naturally aspirated and turbocharged options. Powering the Veloster was a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine, known for its fuel efficiency, owing to its direct fuel injection system. This combination of performance and efficiency further solidified the Veloster’s appeal in the compact sports car segment. Here are the pros and cons of turbocharged engines.
Hyundai Veloster Second Generation (2018-Present)
The second-generation Hyundai Veloster debuted for the 2019 model year. In this generation, the redesign of the Veloster focuses significantly on enhancing its proportions and volume, resulting in a shape that exudes dynamic performance even when stationary. Its stance has become more muscular, featuring larger fenders and wheel arches that contribute to a more grounded appearance.
The positioning of the cowl point and A-pillar has been adjusted rearward, creating a seamless connection between the hood line and belt line, adding to its commanding presence.
According to Hyundai Veloster car history, this asymmetrical design philosophy extends to the interior, where a driver-centric layout emphasises the driving experience. In the Turbo Ultimate trim, a contrasting colour scheme distinguishes the driving cockpit visually.
Each trim level offers unique colours, materials and accents, further individualising each model with a diverse range of hues and textures.
Safety features are abundant in the Veloster, with standard offerings including Vehicle Stability Management, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Motor Driven Power Steering. Additionally, the car comes equipped with six airbags and an impressive braking system comprising four-wheel disc brakes and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with brake assist for emergency situations. It also featured Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) which automatically adjusts braking force between the front and rear axles based on loading conditions.
Available colour options for the Veloster in the second generation include Ultra Black, Chalk White, Sonic Silver, Thunder Gray, Sunset Orange, Racing Red and Space Gray. This provided buyers with a diverse palette to suit their preferences.
Then, in this generation, Hyundai introduced the N version of the Veloster for select models, distinguishing itself as the only hatchback on the market with 3+1 doors. The car had two on the curb side and one for the driver.
Compared to other Veloster variants, the Veloster N boasted distinctive features. The prominent piano-black grille proudly displayed the red “N” badge, while specialised air ducts facilitated brake cooling.
Inside the cabin, while the three-door concept provided rear passenger access, the focus remained on the driver. Notable features included a shift-light indicator on the dashboard for optimal gear shifts and a rev-match system for seamless downshifting. The Veloster N also featured the Infinity sound system as part of the infotainment unit, complete with an 8″ touch-screen display.
In terms of technical specifications, the Veloster N offered few options beyond its robust 275 hp engine. While exclusively available with a 6-speed manual transmission, the car could be equipped with an electronically controlled limited-slip differential to efficiently manage power delivery.
Veloster is also among the popular used hatchbacks in the UAE. Those interested in buying the vehicle can go through these used Hyundai Veloster cars for sale in the UAE.
FAQS
What makes the Hyundai Veloster stand out in the compact sports car segment?
The Hyundai Veloster stands out for its unique asymmetrical door layout, with one door on the driver’s side and two doors on the passenger side. This provides easy access to the rear seats compared to traditional coupes.
What are some notable features of the Hyundai Veloster’s interior design?
The Hyundai Veloster’s interior design includes a driver-focused layout with a V-shaped centre stack, high-bolstered bucket seats for better side support and a range of colour options and materials to suit different trim levels.
What is the significance of the Hyundai Veloster N in the lineup?
The Hyundai Veloster N is the high-performance variant developed by Hyundai’s N Division. Here is everything you need to know about Hyundai N vehicles. Veloster N lineup features a potent engine, specialised aerodynamic enhancements and performance-oriented features.
That brings an end to the history of the Hyundai Veloster. Moreover, those interested in other cars by the automaker can go through this list of pre-owned Hyundai cars for sale in the UAE.
Stay tuned to dubizzle’s car blog for more about the history and generations of various car models.
Cover Image Credits: Shutterstock Photo Contributor – Steve Lagreca.
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