NAIAS 2011: Hyundai’s three-door coupe, the Veloster

January 11,2011

Hyundai is ready to take on Mini Cooper. That’s the company’s message with the introduction of the all-new Veloster sports coupe at the North American International Auto Show. The Veloster has a unique three-door configuration (four if you count the hatch), with a rear door that opens independently on the passenger side—brilliant! The door handles are hidden to retain the two-door look. It’s not exactly pretty–like a Tucson shrunken down to hatchback size–but it checks the “distinctive” and “bonkers” boxes quite handily.

The Veloster is powered by a 1.6-liter direct-injection gasoline engine mated to a dual-clutch six-speed gearbox, with drive going to the front wheels. Power is 138 bhp, with 166 Nm. Estimated mileage is 17 km/liter, better than the Honda CR-Z Hybrid’s official number.

The suspension uses MacPherson struts up front and a torsion-beam rear. 17-inch wheels will be standard, with 18s as an option. ABS, traction and stability control are standard, as are six airbags.

The Veloster will be equipped with Blue Link, Hyundai’s new telematics system. Blue Link aims to provide Internet connectivity to enable such functions as Pandora internet radio, voice text messaging, remote door unlock/lock, stolen vehicle slowdown. Navigation will also be part of the Blue Link package, accessible via the seven-inch touchscreen.

The Veloster is inspired by—guess what—motorcyle styling cues, from the blacked-out A-pillars to the interior air vents and center console design.

Hyundai Asia Resources, the Philippine distributor, has not confirmed if they will launch the Veloster. HARI has previously shown a willingness to bring in specialized models like the Tuscani Coupe and the Genesis Coupe. And—they bothered to send a PR kit, which may be good news for all those stingy middle-aged guys out there.

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