The 2020 Hyundai Veloster extends its reputation as a fun, small, and sporty compact car. It performs well and, compared to its peers, has a relatively large interior. Did we mention that it’s also affordable on any budget? Redesigned for the 2019 model year and now in its second generation of production, the new Veloster also stands out for its signature three-door hatchback style. It actually makes it quite easy for rear passengers to get in and out of a two-door sport coupe. Here’s what you need to know about the newest edition of the Veloster.
Exterior Styling
The 2020 Veloster looks as good as it always has. Or at least as good as the 2019 model, which marked a terrific redesign of the car. While the exterior hasn’t been really been altered for 2020, the Veloster is still a stylish looking sport coupe. It’s clearly been designed with younger drivers in mind with sleek angles and cool rims. Plus, the Veloster stands out as a hatchback, with its unique door configuration. In addition to its two front doors, the Veloster has a third passenger-side-only rear door that simplifies entry and exit for the back seat. Overall, this remains an attractive sporty compact vehicle.
Engine and Performance
The 2020 Veloster provides the great performance you would expect. The handling is excellent, the steering precise, and the braking is firm and responsive. As with previous models, the R-Spec trim really performs. It’s everything you could want in a sporty, lightweight compact car. Power from the R-Spec’s turbo engine is exceptionally fast. Critics say it contains no lag at all.
While most critics recommend the manual transmission option, the dual-clutch automatic is also really good. It even responds quickly to paddle-shifted gear changes. The base engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that generates 147 horsepower and 132-pound feet of torque. The Turbo branded engines are powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that provides 201 horsepower and 195-pound feet of torque.
Trimlines and Prices
The Veloster comes in five different trimlines – three of which include a turbo charged engine. The base trimline is the Veloster 2.0, which comes standard with a manual transmission. It starts at $16,800. The second lowest trim is the 2.0 Premium, which includes an automatic transmission and costs $21,000. The middle model gets you into the turbo charged engines with the Turbo R-Spec. It comes with a manual transmission and costs $21,350.
The Turbo is the second highest trim and will set you back $23.650, while the top level is the Turbo Ultimate. The top of the line Veloster will set you back a minimum of $26,350.
With all trimlines coming in at under $30,000, you can’t really go wrong with any of them. Plus, the Veloster’s base model is very nicely equipped with 17-inch wheels and daytime running lights, automatic projector-beam headlights, and heated power-adjustable sideview mirrors. All Veloster cars come with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration. There’s also inluded driver-assistance technology such as forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assistance. Really, when it comes to trimlines, the only consideration should be your personal budget.
The Veloster N
There are technically a couple more versions of the Veloster. Hyundai considers the N variant of the sleek hatchback a separate model altogether. This version comes with a slightly sportier look and a beefier engine. For $27,400, you can get a 2.0 liter Turbo CDI four-cylinder engine that outputs 250 horsepower. It’s paired to a six-speed automatic transmission. This model comes with the high performance brakes, four available driving modes, and a electronically controlled suspension.
The most expensive version of the Veloster N starts at $29,500. For that, you get the most powerful engine available — a 275 horsepower, 2.0 liter Turbo four-cylinder. You’ll also get an Active Sport exhaust system, 19-inch alloy wheels, and “N Norner Carving Differential” for even smoother handling. For anyone wanting even more fun behind the wheel, the Veloster N is where to look.
Interior
The Veloster’s interior is also brag worthy. As mentioned, the Veloster is surprisingly roomy for a compact sport coupe. It contains ample front and rear space. Full-sized adults can even sit in the rear seats comfortably. If there is one knock on the interior of the 2020 Veloster, it’s that the roof is a little low. Headroom might be an issue for taller riders.
On the more positive side, the controls are well situated and responsive. Driver visibility is generally good at all angles inside the car. The trunk area is also spacious, at 19.9 cubic feet. There are also plenty of spaces inside the cabin to store drink bottles and personal items, such as wide door pockets and a large center console. Rear passengers will find cupholders and a small tray too.
Technology & Safety Features
The 2020 Veloster comes with a very functional infotainment system. Better yet, all version are compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Blue Link connected services and a high-quality Infinity stereo system also come standard. Navigation, however, is only available though with the topline Turbo Ultimate trim. There are ample USB ports, a 12-volt charging port, and data connections. The higher end trims offer a wireless charging pad. Voice commands are limited to a handful of functions, but the system responds well.
The base-model Veloster comes with a 7.0-inch display screen, though that can be upgraded to an 8.0-inch display for more money. In terms of safety, the 2020 Hyundai Veloster is outfitted with a generous number of standard and optional features, including standard forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assistance, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Warranty
As for warranty coverage, the Veloster provides more than most cars in its class. Some reviews have claimed that Hyundai offers one of the best warranties in the business. The company also now offers complimentary scheduled maintenance on all of its vehicles, including the Veloster. Standard warranty coverage includes a limited warranty of five years or 60,000 miles. The powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles. The complimentary maintenance runs for three years or 36,000 miles. Pretty impressive indeed.
Fuel Economy
The manual transmission Turbo engine Veloster gets 29 miles per gallon combined (26 MPG of city driving and 33 MPG on the highway). The automatic transmissio engines do a bit better, getting 30 MPG combined. Of course, how you choose to drive the Veloster will impact its gas mileage. The harder you drive the Veloster, the less efficient the gas mileage becomes.
The Veloster N trades that extra kick for less mileage, obviously. It’s rated for 22 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway, for an average of 25 MPG combined.
The Good
- Affordable pricing across all trimlines.
- Spacious interior and large trunk.
- Loaded with standard safety features.
The Not-So-Good
- Low head room could be an issue for taller riders.
- No real changes to the exterior from last year.
- Fuel efficiency drops the harder you drive.
The Last Word
The 2020 Hyundai Veloster ticks a lot of boxes. It’s affordable, stylish, performs well, is loaded with technology and safety features, is spacious, and has one of the best warranties in the business. By most measures, the Veloster is a great buy. While there are a few quibbles when it comes to headroom and fuel economy, those are minor issues in the grand scheme of things. If you’re looking for a sporty compact coupe, you could do a lot worse than the 2020 Hyundai Veloster. Check it out.
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