In the last couple of years, the Hyundai Veloster made a rapid ascent in the sporty hatchback market. The 2014 version on display at this year’s North American International Auto Show keeps it smack in the middle of that race — and that’s a good place to be.
There are a few legends in the sporty hatch class, including the VW Golf, the rally conquering Subaru STI and the re-emerged Fiat 500 in its Abarth form. More affordable entries like the Honda CRX offer a serviceable alternative to those models — and the Mazda 3 SKYACTIV five door is drawing more market share than ever with its 40 mpg rating and several appearances on 2013 Cars of the Year Lists.
The Veloster storms into the midst of those cars without a bit shyness. Aggressively styled, adequately powered, well equipped and fun to handle, it’s every bit a prime sports hatchback option for a price between $17,800 and $23,300.
The standard issue Veloster (as opposed to the amped Turbo version) includes a 1.6 liter, direct injection four cylinder engine producing 201 horsepower. Both manual and automatic transmissions are available for drivers looking for maximum performance.
The low, angled body styling packs a striking effect for the Veloster. The 2014 model still includes the passenger side rear suicide door unique to this model.
The car’s only significant weakness still isn’t in front of the driver while the zippy rides bites off apexes. It’s all behind the driver’s seat. The tapered rear fenders groove into a high set, narrow rear window offering a very limited field of view.
Also, the curvature of the glass wedged into that hatch produces a convex effect — distorting the scale and distance of the rear terrain or pursuing vehicles. I found myself relying heavily on the side sport mirrors throughout my test drive.
Those visibility issues can’t ruin the ride of a car blessed with great balance and handling precision. Its independent rear suspension and sport-tuned front suspension keep the ride low and tight — providing pleasurable tactile response through the steering wheel to the driver’s senses.
The narrowed hatchback area may not offer extensive payload area, but there’s enough there for the average urban driver’s needs. From a set of golf clubs to a few bags of groceries, the rear bay will suffice.
Already one of the best-looking entries in the sports hatchback class, the 2014 Hyundai Veloster’s performance and mileage offerings make it a prime choice at price point lower than most of its competition.
