Hyundai Veloster coupe debuts
11.01.2011 - Richard Dredge
(13)
Hyundai has revealed its Veloster coupe at the Detroit motor show. It's the first time the Veloster been seen in production form, having been shown as a concept in 2007.
The affordable hatchback, which will reach UK showrooms later this year, features a single door on the driver's side, but a pair of doors on the passenger side, for easier access to the back seats.
Designed to take on rivals such as the Renault Megane coupe and Volkswagen Scirocco, there will initially be just a 1.6-litre petrol engine available.
There will be a choice of manual or dual-clutch transmissions, each with six speeds. With the manual gearbox, the engine will generate 138bhp and 123lb ft of pulling power, but this drops to 130bhp and 117lb ft with the dual-clutch gearbox specified.
While the Veloster doesn't look as striking as the original concept, it's still very distinctive thanks to the bold new corporate nose, the sharply sloping rear and the heavily sculpted flanks.
The Veloster's interior is just as striking, with high-quality materials throughout and an eye-catching design that relies heavily on the futuristic look.
Intended to take Hyundai further upmarket, the Veloster will be offered with a range of high-tech options such as a premium multi-media system, LED lighting and a glass roof.
