Sporty Veloster gets a boost with new turbo engine

THE Hyundai Veloster range in South Africa has received a boost with the addition of a turbo-boosted direct petrol injection engine, along with more sporty and luxury features that makes this attractive hatchback a well-rounded sports package.

At its global launch, the Veloster Turbo was the first Hyundai to feature the company’s 1,6-litre GDI engine with a high-compression, twin-scroll turbocharger. This T-GDI unit, generating 150kW maximum power and 265Nm of torque, has now made its debut in the local Veloster range, with performance figures that are quite a step up from its non-turbocharged sibling which delivers 103kW and 167Nm.

Maximizing fuel efficiency and performance, the Veloster Turbo’s engine has an air-guided intercooler, direct fuel injection system and dual CVVT, with a bed plate and a serpentine auxiliary belt adapted for enhanced engine reliability

The Veloster Turbo is fitted with a quicker-ratio steering rack and a revised steering calibration to match, which provide for precise cornering, feedback and control. As with the turbocharged engine, the front and rear suspension set-ups have been tuned to match the expectations of drivers that appreciate firm and surefooted road manners.

The driving experience is further enhanced by the sport-tuned engine intake and exhaust notes.

The trapezoidal centre tailpipes of the normally-aspirated Veloster have been replaced with two larger free-flowing circular pipes, allowing for a more robust sound.

To handle the power enhancements, the Veloster Turbo is paired with a standard six-speed manual transmission, developed by Hyundai, featuring a wider gear ratio spread to handle the additional torque output.

It also comes with a seven-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) which changes gears automatically or through driver input with steering wheel mounted paddles or the gear lever.

The Veloster Turbo has the same practical appeal as the original model, thanks to the innovative 1+2 door design.

It also now features:

• New front and rear bumpers.

• Fog lights.

• New rear spoiler and grille.

• New 18-inch alloy wheels.

•Projection headlights with LED headlight accents.

• LED taillights.

These elements further accentuate the car’s eye-catching styling and add a greater emphasis on its performance.