Veloster 1.6 T-GDi Style Turbo (Republic of Korea, 2013)

After critics were voiced thet the 2011 Veloster needed a more powerful version, Hyundai unveiled the 201hp Veloster Turbo at NAIAS in January 2012.

“The Turbo further broadens Veloster’s hero role in the Hyundai line-up to attract our next generation of buyers,” said Mike O’Brien, vice president, product and corporate planning, Hyundai Motor America. “It’s powerful, high-tech and fuel-efficient, attributes which we think make Veloster Turbo the ultimate innovation in the sport coupe segment.”

This version is powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine which develops an output of 201 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 195 lb-ft of torque from 1750 – 4500 rpm. The engine is combined with a standard six-speed manual transmission.

Although power has been increased substantially Hyundai has paid special attention to efficiency. So the GDI fuel delivery system featured on the 1.6-liter Gamma turbocharged engine to improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions.

According to Hyundai the design of the Veloster Turbo has been inspired from a custom high-performance sport bike. In fact one of the most popular sport bike upgrades is to modify the exhaust and Hyundai designers have removed the Veloster’s trapezoidal center exhaust and replaced it with two larger free flowing circular pipes.

The Veloster Turbo also features a bigger hexagonal front grille and a new dynamic rear bumper with prominent diffuser vents in the lower fascia. With these design changes Hyundai has given the model a more aggressive look, while adding more aerodynamic stability compared to the base model.

Arriving in the Summer of 2012, Hyundai expects the Veloster Turbo to offer strong competition to the Volkswagen GTI, Honda Civic Si and Mini Cooper/Clubman S.