Pros: One-of-a-kind styling stands out among compact cars; passenger-side third door provides a bit more passenger and cargo versatility than most sporty coupes
Cons: Sluggish acceleration with base engine; sloped roofline makes for poor rear visibility and subpar rear-seat headroom; not quite as agile as some sporty-compact competitors
CG Says: For 2016, Hyundai Veloster adds a Rally Edition version of its Turbo model. Rally Edition adds performance-tuned suspension, unique wheels, and matte-finished paint. Production is limited to 1200 units. The Turbo replaces its available 6-speed automatic transmission with a 7-speed automated-manual. An upgraded navigation system that includes Siri Eyes Free functionality for Apple iPhone users is available on all models. Veloster combines several attractive attributes into an outlandishly styled package. A reasonably roomy interior for 4 passengers, a large cargo hold, high-tech connectivity features, and respectable EPA numbers help Veloster stand out in its class. Plus, the passenger-side third door is a novel touch that adds a tad more utility… at least among sporty cars. Base Velosters are disappointingly slow, but Turbo models deliver sprightly acceleration and crisper handling that are more in keeping with the car’s zany looks.
| Class | Sporty/Performance Car |
| Body Style(s) | 3-door hatchback |
| Passenger Count | 4 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Hyundai |
| Nation of Manufacture | South Korea |
| Base Prices | Base: $18,000 Turbo R-Spec: $21,600 Turbo: $22,600 Rally Edition: $23,950 |
| Base Engine 1.6-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 138 (manual) or 132 (automated manual) |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed manual |
| Avail. Transmission 6-speed automated manual |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 27-28 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 35-36 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 201 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed manual |
| Avail. Transmission 7-speed automated manual |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 25-27 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 33 |
