Although not a track-day contender as its name might suggest, the Veloster brings nice design flair and usability to the sport compact market. 鈥淔lair鈥� really is an understatement. The car is very visually engaging; so much so that Hyundai hopes it will break down any remaining brand resistance from diehard fans of the long-established Japanese marquees that have historically dominated the sport compact world.
The first time I saw a Veloster in the wild, it stopped me in my tracks. Literally. That鈥檚 saying something from a guy who grew up at car shows. The look is in line with Hyundai鈥檚 current style but with a big boost of drama. The scoops below the headlights and center-exit exhaust add a nice dose of sportiness without being too 鈥淔ast & Furious.鈥�
The Veloster鈥檚 main competitors at the most economical end of the value-driven sport compact market are the Scion tC and Honda CR-Z. The Hyundai outshines both in fuel economy, and with its unique three-door layout (two dedicated passenger doors, one driver door) it will be the easiest to get in and out of.
Though the Veloster lists at $17,300, the $2,000 鈥淪tyle鈥� package is necessary to get the panoramic sunroof, which is of course an essential element to your summer Saturdays.
