2012 Hyundai Veloster Overview

The 2012 Hyundai Veloster rides on a platform loosely based on the Elantra sedan, but all similarities end there. The new car is not only a visual departure from the rest of the Hyundai lineup, it is a segment-defining look sure to draw lots of attention.

One of its most obvious attributes is its unusual door design, with a single large door on the driver's side and two smaller doors for passengers on the opposite. Beyond that, the Veloster is a sporty hatchback powered by a 1.6L direct injected engine. The 16-valve unit features continuously variable valves, which help it to produce 138 horsepower and return an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city / 40 mpg highway.

A standard 6-speed manual transmission puts power to the front wheels. A dual-clutch 6-speed EcoShift automatic with paddle shifters and hill assist is optional.

For now, just one trim exists, and it comes with heated power side mirrors, 17-inch alloy wheels, a dual-centered chrome-tipped exhaust and a rear spoiler with LED brake light incorporated into it.

Inside, standard equipment includes air conditioning, power accessories, tilt/telescopic steering wheel, a 6-speaker CD/MP3 stereo, a 7-inch high-resolution LCD touchscreen, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, and Hyundai's Blue Link, a telematics system that allows for location sharing and hands-free texting, as well as remotely locking or starting the car, and flicking the lights to help you find it in a parking lot. As a safety feature, the system also includes SOS Emergence Assistance, which detects when you have been involved in a collision, then locates your position and requests help.

Popular options include automatic headlights, 18-inch wheels, a panoramic sliding sunroof, navigation, a big stereo and leather seating.

Like all Hyundais, the Veloster emphasizes safety, with stability control, traction control, stability management, anti-lock brakes, a tire pressure monitor and a full host of airbags.

2012 Hyundai Veloster Model Changes

The Veloster is an all-new model from Hyundai for 2012. The car draws its athletic hatchback styling inspiration from sport motorcycles but the comparison ends there. With three doors, loads of integrated interior technology such as Blue Link and voice recognition, a 1.6L direct injected engine producing 138 horsepower and highway fuel efficiency of up to 40 mpg, the Veloster is in a class of its own. Pricing starts at $17,300.

2012 Hyundai Veloster Value

Hyundai is blurring class lines with the all-new Veloster. It's kind of a coupe and kind of a hatchback, but no matter what you call it, the Veloster is designed to win over just about everyone. Its 1.6L engine produces 138 hp and delivers impressive fuel economy at 28 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. And the Veloster is loaded with standard features that set it apart, such as a 7-inch high-resolution LCD touchscreen and Bluetooth. Add to that best-in-class interior volume and high-quality materials, with a base price just over $17,000, and the Hyundai Veloster is hard to beat.

2012 Hyundai Veloster Strengths

Sleek, sporty styling; available technology; interior space; fuel efficiency