Space for four
What the Veloster does offer that the two aforementioned cars don't is a usable back seat. Yes, that curbside door is handy for loading up the kids or getting a couple of work buddies from the office to McDonald's. Those grown-ups, however, must watch their heads as they get in, and if you don't warn them, chances are they'll end up with a lump on the noggin.
This is by no means a big car; compared to the Accent, it's got less headroom and less rear-seat legroom, but its extra width pays off a little in regards to shoulder and hip room. And if those back seats are occupied while the hatch is open, you should also warn them that you're about to close it so they can duck.
As with all Hyundais of late, cabin fit and finish is superb, with a modern and tasteful dashboard as well as comfortable, supportive seats. My colleague Matt says that the inside door pulls remind him of the ones in an Audi R8, while they reminded me of those in the Honda Ridgeline. I don't know who's right, but since I'm writing this review, I'll say I am.
Lots of features for the price
Here's where it all comes together. At $18,999 before taxes, freight and delivery charges, the 2012 Hyundai Veloster can easily be considered a helluva deal.
Its standard-feature list includes the following: 17" alloys, electronic stability control, heated seats, a 6-speaker sound system with touchscreen, satellite radio, USB port and rearview camera, Bluetooth phone and streaming audio connectivity, A/C, power windows, cruise control and an intelligent key system.
If that's not enough, you can opt for the $3,500 Tech package that adds 18" wheels, automatic headlights, a panoramic sunroof, cloth and leatherette upholstery, a sound system upgrade with 8 speakers, leather-wrapped wheel and shift knob as well as a 115V power outlet. With the EcoShift transmission, our loaded Veloster costs $23,899.
If you're looking for a small, thrifty car that won't bore you to death, the Hyundai Veloster is well worth a look. We hear Hyundai has trouble keeping up with demand; in our books, that's called winning a bet.
What the Veloster does offer that the two aforementioned cars don't is a usable back seat. Yes, that curbside door is handy for loading up the kids or getting a couple of work buddies from the office to McDonald's. Those grown-ups, however, must watch their heads as they get in, and if you don't warn them, chances are they'll end up with a lump on the noggin.
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| The rear door is handy for the kids, although adults should watch their head before climbing in. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour/Auto123.com) |
This is by no means a big car; compared to the Accent, it's got less headroom and less rear-seat legroom, but its extra width pays off a little in regards to shoulder and hip room. And if those back seats are occupied while the hatch is open, you should also warn them that you're about to close it so they can duck.
As with all Hyundais of late, cabin fit and finish is superb, with a modern and tasteful dashboard as well as comfortable, supportive seats. My colleague Matt says that the inside door pulls remind him of the ones in an Audi R8, while they reminded me of those in the Honda Ridgeline. I don't know who's right, but since I'm writing this review, I'll say I am.
Lots of features for the price
Here's where it all comes together. At $18,999 before taxes, freight and delivery charges, the 2012 Hyundai Veloster can easily be considered a helluva deal.
Its standard-feature list includes the following: 17" alloys, electronic stability control, heated seats, a 6-speaker sound system with touchscreen, satellite radio, USB port and rearview camera, Bluetooth phone and streaming audio connectivity, A/C, power windows, cruise control and an intelligent key system.
If that's not enough, you can opt for the $3,500 Tech package that adds 18" wheels, automatic headlights, a panoramic sunroof, cloth and leatherette upholstery, a sound system upgrade with 8 speakers, leather-wrapped wheel and shift knob as well as a 115V power outlet. With the EcoShift transmission, our loaded Veloster costs $23,899.
If you're looking for a small, thrifty car that won't bore you to death, the Hyundai Veloster is well worth a look. We hear Hyundai has trouble keeping up with demand; in our books, that's called winning a bet.
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| The 2012 Veloster is smartly priced at $18,999. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour/Auto123.com) |
2012 Hyundai Veloster EcoShift DCT Tech Package
2012 Hyundai Veloster EcoShift DCT Tech Package
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