2012 Hyundai Veloster Ride and Review by Larry Nutson
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Hyundai Veloster Your Perfect Match?
TWEET:2012 Hyundai Veloster, Funky, Fun, Practical (In a 3 door coupe sort of way)
or
COMPLETE:
2012 HYUNDAI VELOSTER
Funky and Fun
By Larry Nutson
Senior Editor, Chicago Bureau
The Auto Channel
I was impressed by the fashionable looks of the Hyundai Veloster when I first saw it in person a year ago at the 2011 Chicago Auto Show.(2011 Detroit Veloster Unveiling Video) And, I was impressed with the 2011 Hyundai Sonata in my drive last summer. No doubt that the Veloster is targeted at younger folk but I see no reason why folks like me…active lifestyle empty nesters…can’t drive this car with lots of enjoyment and satisfaction.
While I had the Veloster, I needed to do some running around Chicago; picking up a large box at a hotel; meeting a friend and then the two of us visiting another associate for work on a mutual project. The young doorman at the hotel who I asked to leave the Veloster at the front door immediately recognized the car and we got into a conversation on its unique design. The large box fit easily under the rear hatch in the cargo area. The passenger-side rear door made for easy loading of personal items in the rear seat area. Zipping through the streets of Chicago and negotiating a parking garage was with ease.
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Coming in this summer, as 2013 model, is a new 201 HP turbo engine version. This model was announced at the auto show in Detroit and will feature sport tuned suspension and steering and many unique design elements including 18-inch alloy wheels. Many will like the increased excitement in the hot-hatch segment.
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An optional $2000 Style Package included 18-inch alloys fitted with 215/40 tires, fog lights, a sunroof, premium audio with eight speakers and alloy pedals. The optional $2000 Tech Package included a nav system with rearview camera that together with the backup warning sensors is wonderful for tight parking maneuvers.
A standard feature of the Veloster is Hyundai’s Blue Link Telematics System that enables in-car web or smartphone app. Blue Link features include POI search and download, voice text messaging, location sharing, Geo fence vehicle boundary alert and roadside assistance.
Like all Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S., the Veloster is covered by the Hyundai Assurance program, which includes the 5-year/60,000-mile fully transferable new vehicle warranty, Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, and five years of complimentary Roadside Assistance.
I liked the modern shape, the practicality of the hatch, the upscale interior with impressive fit and finish, and the nice price. With gasoline prices trending beyond $4 towards $5 a gallon this year, the good fuel economy is a big plus. Styling is attractive and unique and turns many heads.
© Larry Nutson