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In the coming weeks, Hyundai dealers will be getting their first batch of the 2019 Veloster and Veloster Turbo models. Before then, Hyundai has revealed the pricing for their polarizing three-door coupe. The base Veloster will kick off at $19,385 (includes an $885 destination charge) and nets you a 2.0L four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder producing 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. This will come paired with a six-speed manual, with a six-speed automatic adds a $1,000. There is a decent amount of equipment such as automatic emergency braking, heated side mirrors, lane keep assist, and a 7-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A Premium package that offers automatic climate control, blind spot monitoring, heated seats, and an 8-inch infotainment system with navigation adds $3,250 for the Veloster equipped with the automatic. Next up is the Veloster Turbo R-Spec that swaps the 2.0L for the turbocharged 1.6L four-cylinder producing 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, and a six-speed manual. This gets a unique interior, LED headlights, and Michelin Pilot Sport 4 summer tires. A dual-clutch transmission is available for an additional $2,500 and includes automatic climate control and heated seats. Topping the lineup is the Turbo Ultimate beginning at either $27,535 (manual) or $29,035 (DCT). The Ultimate gets adaptive cruise control (DCT only), head-up display, 8-inch infotainment system with navigation, and pedestrian detection. Those hoping to learn about pricing for the Veloster N will need to wait a bit longer. Source: Hyundai Hyundai Introduces All-New 2019 Veloster and Veloster Turbo Veloster retains unique two-plus-one door asymmetrical bodystyle configuration Available 1.6-liter turbocharged engine with 201 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque Generous cutting-edge infotainment and connectivity features Standard multi-link rear suspension for agile dynamics Starting at $18,500 for 2.0 manual-transmission model AUSTIN, Texas, May 15, 2018 – Hyundai unveiled its all-new Veloster and Veloster Turbo models at the North American International Auto Show in January 2018. The fresh design was a collaborative effort of Hyundai designers from Seoul, South Korea and the U.S. design center in Irvine, California. The new Veloster features a comprehensive exterior and interior redesign, powertrain enhancements, and a bevy of new and improved infotainment and connectivity features. The 2019 Veloster began production in March 2018 in Ulsan, Korea, with U.S. market availability in the second quarter of 2018. “Our new 2019 Veloster represents an even more compelling offering for young and young-at-heart automotive enthusiasts with more expressive design, involving dynamics and cutting-edge infotainment features,” said Mike O’Brien, vice president of Product, Corporate and Digital Planning at Hyundai Motor America. “When combined with Hyundai’s outstanding value and efficiency, the new Veloster is sure to attract a progressive new group of enthusiast buyers.” ALL-NEW DESIGN The Veloster merges the design appeal of a sport coupe with the versatility of an additional passenger side rear door in an asymmetrical two-plus-one configuration for easier rear-seat access. From the front, available LED headlights and LED Daytime Running Lights flank a striking new grille design. Functional air curtains add both a visual design cue and an active aerodynamic function. Hyundai’s signature cascade grille shape has morphed into a strong, three-dimensional design that sets the sport coupe apart. Much of the redesign is derived from enhanced proportions and volume; the new shape clearly conveys focused dynamic performance, even standing still. Its stance is more muscular, with higher-volume fenders and wheel arches for a more planted appearance. The cowl point and A-pillar are further rearward and now connect the hood line and belt line into an integrated, powerful gesture. Available 18-inch alloy wheels aggressively fill the wheelhouse openings. Further, the roofline has been lowered for a unique profile and a distinctive coupe-inspired essence. The fender line is also more coupe-like, and the rear now has a more aggressive integrated diffuser design. Available LED taillights help complete the rear view with a high-tech appearance. Also available is a full darkened roof treatment for a high-contrast performance appearance. Veloster’s dynamic rear design has a distinctive glass hatch and center-fascia chrome exhaust tips, with a single outlet for the 2.0-liter model and dual-outlets for Turbo and R-Spec models. INTERIOR The asymmetrical design carries through to the interior, with a driver-focused interior layout and on the Turbo Ultimate, a contrasting color environment that visually separates the driving cockpit. Each trim level has unique colors, materials, and accents, further differentiating each model with varying hues and textures. In addition to these new colors and textures, the new Veloster also offers generous rear cargo capacity, with 19.9 cubic feet of interior volume behind the 2nd row seat, more than Mini Cooper, Mini Clubman and VW Beetle. 2.0-LITER NU ENGINE The Veloster 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine uses the Atkinson-cycle for superior efficiency and lower emissions. The 2.0-liter engine delivers a peak output of 147 horsepower at 6,200 rpm (estimated) and maximum torque of 132 lb.-ft. at 4,500 rpm (estimated). The Nu 2.0-liter also features Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing, an electronic throttle control, variable induction and innovative anti-friction coatings. The 2.0-liter engine is coupled with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed electronically-controlled automatic transmission. Three driver-selectable modes include Normal, Sport, and Smart, according to changing driver preferences. GAMMA 1.6-LITER TURBOCHARGED ENGINE The 1.6-liter turbocharged, direct-injected four-cylinder engine produces 201 horsepower at 6,000 rpm (estimated) and 195 lb.-ft. of torque from 1,500-4,500 rpm (estimated). Turbo models generate 201 horsepower on regular fuel, which represents a best-in-class specific output of 125.6 horsepower per liter. Further, there is an over-boost function that raises peak torque output to 202 lb.-ft. under maximum acceleration. Engine tuning maximizes low- and mid-range torque, for optimum acceleration under daily driving conditions. Veloster Turbo is paired with a standard six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT). For R-Spec manual transmission models, a B&M Racing® sport shifter will also be applied (later availability). Both transmissions were developed in-house by Hyundai. The Veloster Turbo seven-speed dual-clutch transmission features steering wheel-mounted paddle-shifters and SHIFTRONIC® transmission gear control. In addition, all Veloster Turbo models feature Active Engine Sound, which enhances intake and exhaust powertrain sound character inside the cabin for a more visceral driving experience, especially during spirited driving. All A/T and DCT models also offer three selectable driving modes, including Normal, Sport and Smart, (Normal and Sport on M/T models), according to driver preferences for engine, transmission and steering feel. The Smart mode varies within the range of settings according to how the vehicle is currently being driven (such as in an economical or a more spirited manner). For Turbo models, driver preference for Active Engine Sound is also available. TORQUE VECTORING CONTROL All Veloster models offer Torque Vectoring Control (TVC). This active cornering feature utilizing capabilities from the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and powertrain control systems, allows Veloster to improve dynamic cornering during more enthusiastic driving. TVC uses wheel-speed sensors coupled with ESC algorithms to apply precise braking force to the inside front wheel during spirited cornering. This active braking redirects power to the outside front wheel in the turn, reducing wheelspin for enhanced cornering grip and corner-exit acceleration. Overall, this provides Veloster drivers with an incremental margin of cornering precision during enthusiastic driving. Further, Veloster Turbo features a quicker-ratio steering rack and a revised steering calibration to match, which gives drivers precise cornering, feedback and control. DCT TRANSMISSION Hyundai’s EcoShift DCT takes the benefits of a manual transmission, such as low fuel consumption, and blends these with automatic transmission benefits, such as high comfort levels and driving ease. In addition, the DCT enables direct connection for high efficiency and uninterrupted torque transfer during shifts. The DCT also incorporates Hyundai’s Hillstart Assist Control (HAC), designed to minimize rolling backwards on steep ascents. Veloster’s compelling combination of performance with efficiency is a formula many industry competitors are seeking to duplicate. Hyundai’s development focus on all the factors of efficient performance, such as small-displacement turbocharged engines, dual-clutch transmissions, comprehensive lightweighting, efficient aerodynamics, and reduction of parasitic engine losses through electric-powered ancillaries, have combined to yield simultaneous benefits in performance and efficiency to the consumer. TURBO MODEL SPORT-TUNED DYNAMICS Veloster Turbos are fitted with a McPherson strut front suspension, coil springs, gas shock absorbers and a 24-mm diameter front stabilizer bar. The rear suspension is a lightweight independent multi-link design with a 19-mm stabilizer bar to further control body roll. The rear suspension uses gas-pressurized shock absorbers for ride comfort with excellent control. Veloster features electric power steering that adjusts assistance to changing driving conditions while improving fuel economy over a conventional steering system. When equipped with the six-speed manual transmission, available 18-inch alloy wheels are fitted with Michelin® Pilot Sport 4 summer tires. All Veloster models also use aluminum front steering knuckles for a total of 10.6 lbs. of reduced unsprung mass at the front suspension compared with the previous generation. In addition, the rear suspension carrier is aluminum, resulting in an 8.4 lb. reduction of unsprung mass for the rear suspension compared with the previous generation. ADVANCED STANDARD SAFETY 2019 Veloster includes standard Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), which uses the car’s front-facing camera to detect an imminent collision and avoid impact or minimize damage by braking autonomously. Three additional systems also utilize the front-view camera to boost safety and convenience: Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), High Beam Assist (HBA) for the available LED headlights, and Driver Attention Warning (DAW). Lane Keep Assist is a standard safety feature for 2019 Veloster. By sensing road markings, LKA helps to prevent accidental lane departure by helping to steer the vehicle as required. HBA automatically controls the high beam headlights by dimming and illuminating them automatically as needed with approaching traffic, while the Driver Attention Warning system monitors a spectrum of driver-related characteristics to detect driver fatigue or careless driving. Veloster radar systems also assist with the available Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW) to detect approaching vehicles from the rear that may be obscured from view and alert the driver of their presence during lane changes. The Rear Cross-Traffic Collison Warning (RCCW) detects when another vehicle may have entered the car’s rearward path, such as when backing out of a parking spot, and provides a driver alert. Veloster Turbo also offers available Smart Cruise Control for additional driver convenience. All Velosters feature a rearview camera with dynamic guidelines fitted to all models for superior parking visibility. Velosters have an exceptional level of standard safety features for the sporty coupe segment highlighted by a Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) system, which optimally manages ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and the Motor-Driven Power Steering (MDPS). VSM works to control two effects. The first is when a driver accelerates or brakes on a split-mu surface (slippery on one side, dry pavement on the other) and the vehicle wants to pull in one direction. VSM detects this condition and sends a signal to the MDPS to apply steering assist to counter this force. VSM counters the pull and automatically provides counter-steering. VSM reacts the same way during sudden lane changes or fast cornering. All Velosters feature six airbags—including dual front, front seat-mounted side-impact, and front and rear side curtain airbags. The Veloster braking package includes four-wheel disc brakes and an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) including Brake Assist, which provides maximum braking force when a panic stop is detected, and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), to automatically adjust the braking force to front and rear axles based on vehicle loading conditions. ADVANCED INFOTAINMENT AND CONNECTIVITY Veloster offers a full suite of sophisticated technologies paired with user-friendly functionality to keep passengers informed and entertained. The premium infotainment system offers various advanced connectivity features, including standard Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay™. Also available are SiriusXM® Radio, HD Radio and next-generation Blue Link® LTE-powered connectivity. The standard seven-inch color LCD display includes AM/FM/MP3 touchscreen audio, auxiliary inputs, and Rear View Monitor. The available floating-design eight-inch touchscreen navigation display includes next-generation Blue Link, traffic flow and incident data via HD radio, and Infinity® premium audio with eight speakers, including a subwoofer and Clari-Fi ™ music-restoration technology. A Heads-Up Display system is available, projecting a virtual image onto the transparent panel mounted behind the instrument panel and helping the driver to keep his or her eyes on the road. With an 8.0-inch projected-image size and an outstanding 10,000 nits of luminance, the Heads-Up Display ensures both excellent day- and night-time visibility. Information projected includes speed, navigation instructions, cruise control, Lane Departure Warning, Blind-Spot Collision Warning and audio system information. When in Sport mode, the system projects more driver-focused information including RPM, MPH and transmission gear. Deployed vertically by a simple touch of a button beside the steering wheel, the display disappears into the dashboard when not in use. Customers expect to be connected to their electronics at all times, so Veloster comes standard with a multifunction seven-inch touchscreen display. Veloster audio/navigation systems also offer: Available Qi wireless-charging capability Available eight-inch display audio or audio/navigation system Available HD Radio® capability “Eyes Free” Apple Siri® integration for iPhone Navigation map and music split-screen display function Navigation map with enhanced junction-view lane guidance Veloster Turbo features standard Infinity Premium audio with eight speakers, including a subwoofer, passive radiator and external amplifier. A SiriusXM® Satellite Radio interface is integrated into the head unit and features channel logos and data services. Veloster also offers available smartphone wireless charging. To charge a device, simply place a compatible smartphone on the wireless-charging interface located in the center console storage, recharging without the need for cables. The system indicates when the phone has fully charged, reminds occupants to remove their phone when exiting the vehicle, and detects when a foreign object is in the recharging area that could interfere with charging. The system is fully compliant with WPC’s Qi standard for ease of use. NEXT-GENERATION BLUE LINK® CONNECTED CAR SYSTEM Veloster offers Blue Link®, including three years of complimentary Blue Link services, with enhanced safety, diagnostic, remote and guidance services. Blue Link brings connectivity directly into the car with technologies like Remote Start with Climate Control, Remote Door Lock/Unlock, Car Finder, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, and Stolen Vehicle Recovery. Blue Link features can be accessed via buttons on the rearview mirror, the MyHyundai.com web portal, the Blue Link smartphone app, the Amazon® Alexa Blue Link skill, and the Blue Link Google Assistant app. Some features can also be controlled via Android Wear™ and Apple Watch™ smartwatch apps. The latest release of the Blue Link smartphone app includes: Widgets for easy access to remote features Ability to send Point-of-Interest data to vehicle navigation system (if so equipped) Access to Blue Link notification settings More details on specific Blue Link-equipped vehicles available at www.hyundaibluelink.com. COLOR Veloster is available in a variety of energetic exterior colors, including: Ultra Black, Chalk White, Sonic Silver, Thunder Gray, Sunset Orange, Racing Red, and Space Gray. Interior environments include cloth (2.0/Turbo R-Spec), cloth/leather combinations (2.0 Premium/Turbo), and all-leather (Turbo Ultimate) models. PRICING VELOSTER ENGINE AND TRIM MSRP 2.0 M/T $18,500 2.0 A/T $19,500 2.0 A/T PREMIUM $22,750 TURBO R-SPEC M/T $22,900 TURBO DCT $25,400 TURBO ULTIMATE M/T $26,650 TURBO ULTIMATE DCT $28,150 NOTE: EXCLUDES FREIGHT CHARGE OF $885 View full article

Hyundai's big showing for the Detroit Auto Show next month will be the redesigned 2019 Veloster. Thanks to a spy photographer, we have gotten our first look at it without the camo. The pictures were captured during a shoot for a commercial or a video that might be shown during the unveiling. Despite the blurriness of the pictures, we can make out a number of details. For one, this looks to be the high-performance 'Turbo' model due to large, round, center exhaust tips and faux diffuser. The front end features a smaller mesh grille and aggressive bumper with deep cuts. One report says the roofline is lowered, though we can't really see that in the pictures. We're expecting the turbocharged 1.6L four-cylinder from the Elantra Sport and Elantra GT Sport to be on offer, along with another engine. A hotter N version is in the works as well, but we're expecting that to debut at a later time. Source: Autoblog, AutoGuide View full article

Hyundai has been busy teasing their N Performance brand for Europe with the upcoming i30 N (Elantra GT to us). But soon, they will begin to do the same for the U.S. Speaking with various outlets this week in South Korea, head of N Albert Biermann said the U.S. would get their first taste of an N product next year. For a time, we thought that it would be Elantra GT. But it seems Hyundai has another product in mind. While Hyundai and Biermann aren't saying what it could be, everyone thinks it will be the next-generation Veloster. Evidence for this comes from various spy shots from the past few months that show heavily camouflaged Velosters with various tweaks such as larger brakes and exhausts pushed out to the edges of the bumper. We know the i30 N will utilize a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder producing at least 250 horsepower and we would not be shocked if the Veloster N gets this engine as well. Stay tuned. Source: Autoblog, Motor Trend View full article

G. David Felt Alternative Fuels & Propulsion writer www.CheersandGears.com Syracuse Utah found itself in the news today about a auto chase through Founders Park. A 14yr old took his grandfathers Hyundai Veloster out for a joyride. Bryson Rowley, concerned for his and others children's safety used his Diesel Ram to keep the Juvenal from causing anymore harm by ramming head on into the car. luckily no one was hurt by the fast driven auto nor in the head on collision that took place. The following video was posted online for people to see of the chase and hit. You can watch the police raw footage and extended video coverage at Fox's web site. This information was attained via local Fox13 news.

The Hyundai Veloster is a departure for the Korean automaker. With a unique style and a asymmetrical door layout, the Veloster has been the black sheep when compared to other models. But a new report says the Veloster may not get a second act. An unnamed Hyundai executive tells GoAuto.com.au that the company is currently debating whether or not to do a second-generation Veloster. “It still has not been decided. There is still debate as to whether it will happen.” Last year, the Veloster sold 60,000 units worldwide. Over half of those were delivered to North America where the model experienced a decline. The Veloster is expected to get a mid-cycle refresh in the near-future. What comes after that is anyones guess. Source: GoAuto.com.au William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article

By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com May 16, 2013 When is a sport compact car not a sport compact? Bit of an odd question I know, but that has been in my head since I got a 2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo. It has the looks, powertrain, and seats with the word Turbo stitched into them. But there is one part of the vehicle that doesn’t quite make the cut. So where does the Veloster Turbo stack up in the sport compact hierarchy? The Veloster Turbo is definitely a looker. Starting with a normal Veloster and its unique alienistic design and third door, Hyundai designers added more distinctiveness. Up front, the Veloster Turbo comes with larger grille that could give most Audi grilles a run for their money on size. The large grille also allows for more air to help provide cooling to the raditor and intercooler. Also up front are a set of LED Accent lighting in the front headlights and new body panels,. The back end gets a new diffuser with center mounted exhaust ports. Finishing off the looks is a set of eighteen-inch alloy wheels and black paint. There is one slight problem with the Veloster Turbo’s design. The back end has a uniquely styled rear hatch with curved glass and a spoiler. While it adds street cred to the design, it also makes it very difficult to see everything out of the back. I was very thankful my tester had a backup camera which made it somewhat easier to see out of the back. Inside the Veloster Turbo, it's mostly the same as the normal Veloster. The only real change is the standard black leather seats with colored accenting (blue in my case) and turbo scripting. Front seats are comfortable and provide good support when driving long distances or if you want to have a bit of fun. The back seat is another story. Anyone can fit back there if they’re under six feet, but they really won’t be comfortable thanks to tight head and legroom. Then there is the issue of getting into the back. Because of third door’s shape and small opening, you have to contort your body in such a way to fit in. Hyundai should have stuck a sticker on the back window that read “to be used in case of emergencies”. The Veloster Turbo comes equipped with a surprising amount of standard equipment such as a leather-wrapped steering wheel, proximity key with push-button start, an eight-speaker Dimension audio system, seven-inch touch screen, and Hyundai’s BlueLink connectivity system. My car was equipped with the $2,500 Ultimate Package which adds a panoramic sunroof, navigation, backup camera with sensors, and automatic headlights. This is a option I highly recommend. Using the infotainment system was a breeze thanks to Hyundai making the user interface easy to understand and a touchscreen that responds very quickly when touched. Also, the screen provided very clean and crisp graphics. The eight-speaker Dimension audio system filled the Veloster Turbo’s cabin with excellent sound, though I was wishing for a bit of sound deadening when on the highway so I didn’t have to have the system cranked when I was listening to certain things. Under the Veloster Turbo’s hood is a 1.6L turbo, direct-injected four-cylinder engine making 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. That can be paired with a six-speed manual, or on my test Veloster Turbo, a six-speed automatic. With a curb weight of 3,005 pounds and torque arriving at 1,750 rpm, the Veloster Turbo really hustles. Every time I stepped on accelerator, a big grin would appear on my face as the power rush down to the wheels and moved the vehicle along at a pretty rapid rate. Even with all of this performance, the Veloster Turbo does very well on fuel economy. The EPA rates the 2013 Veloster Turbo at 24 City/31 Highway/28 combined. During my week, I averaged 28 MPG in mixed driving. Now onto the most argued point of the Veloster Turbo; the suspension. Now you might think that Hyundai decided to tweak the suspension to give it a more sporty feel. No. The Veloster Turbo uses the same suspension as the normal Veloster. The real change is an optional set of Michelin Pilot Super Sport Summer tires that my car was equipped with. Other than that, Hyundai made some tweaks to the steering and brakes to help differentiate the two models. Out on the open road, the Veloster Turbo was a very capable partner. While it cannot fully hide its basic roots (the Veloster Turbo does exhibit some body roll), the improved steering, grippier tires, and new brakes really make the Veloster Turbo a joy to drive. In day to day driving, the Veloster Turbo is surprisingly comfortable and easy to live with. Now to answer a question that I asked at the beginning: Where does the Veloster Turbo stack up in the sport compact hierarchy? Well it happens to be at the bottom mostly due to it having the same suspension as the base Veloster. Hyundai has got everything else to make the Veloster Turbo a real contender. But as we’ve seen before, Hyundai is a quick learner and I wouldn’t be surprised if they pull something magical right out of their hat with a refresh or new model. But let's remove the sport compact comparisons for the time being and look at the Veloster Turbo as a whole. During my time, I realized Hyundai created something very special with this vehicle. The distinctive looks are only part of the story as the powertrain seems to pull off an amazing feat of excellent performance and fuel economy. Partner that with the amount of standard equipment it comes with and you have a package that very few vehicles can even match. The Veloster Turbo is a ‘sport compact’ in most areas, but very good vehicle all around. It's one vehicle that I would gladly own. Disclaimer: Hyundai provided the Veloster Turbo, Insurance, and one tank of gas Year - 2013 Make – Hyundai Model – Veloster Trim – Turbo Engine – 1.6L Turbocharged GDI Four-Cylinder Driveline – Front-Wheel Drive, Six-Speed Automatic Horsepower @ RPM – 201 @ 6,000 RPM Torque @ RPM – 195 @ 1,750 RPM Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 24/31/28 Curb Weight – 3,005 lbs Location of Manufacture – Ulsan, South Korea Base Price - $22,950.00 As Tested Price - $27,520.00* (Includes $775.00 destination charge) Options: Ultimate Package - $2,500.00 Michelin Pilot Super Sport Summer Tires - $1,200.00 Carpet Floor Mats - $95.00 View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com November 28, 2012 The Hyundai Veloster is already a unique vehicle, being a three-door alien-styled hatchback. Today at the L.A. Auto Show, Hyundai decided to up the uniqueness with the Veloster C3 Roll Top concept. The 'C3' in the name is short for convertible three-door. Taking a three-door Veloster Turbo, Hyundai took the roof off and replaced it a power-retractable canvas roof. The roof can be either forward or back to make room for taller cargo in the rear or let more light into the cabin as see fit. Also, the C3 Roll Top concept says hello to a tailgate that allows it to carry larger items, like a bike or surfboard. The cargo floor uses salvaged skateboard decks for added protection and kitsch. Hyundai designers say they were inspired by fixed gear bikes with a focus on low-cost modifications. Hence why the Veloster C3 Roll Top concept has a white paint job is contrasted by a flat-black spoiler, red canvas top, flat red side mirrors and contrasting wheels; flat black up front and flat teal in the back. Power comes from the turbocharged 1.6L direct-injection four-cylinder engine to crank out 201 HP and 195 lb-ft of torque. Hyundai added a larger, more free-flowing exhaust to give it more bark. Source: Hyundai William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 HYUNDAI UNVEILS VELOSTER C3 ROLL TOP CONCEPT AT 2012 LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW Three-Door Convertible Coupe Combines Dual-Function Retractable Roof with Customizable Urban Design HIGHLIGHTS OF VELOSTER C3 ROLL TOP CONCEPT Based on the Veloster’s three-door coupe design Dual-function convertible roof that rolls backwards and forwards Tailgate replaces hatchback for added utility Custom fixed-gear bicycle-inspired design Repurposed skateboards line cargo floor Repurposed industrial truck tarps create convertible soft top LOS ANGELES, Nov. 28, 2012 – Smart design meets urban style as Hyundai unveiled its Veloster C3 Roll Top concept during a press conference at the Los Angeles Auto Show today. Expanding on the qualities that have made the Veloster a sales success, the C3 (which stands for Convertible 3-door) combines open-air freedom with the style of a coupe and the functionality of a tailgate. The Veloster’s efficient coupe design with hidden passenger-side third door introduces an innovative dual-function roll top and tailgate, adding unique utility to a convertible. “We were inspired by the proverb ‘A rolling stone gathers no moss,” said Chris Chapman, chief designer, Hyundai Design North America. “The Veloster C3 Roll Top concept offers the ‘no strings attached’ freedom of a roll top convertible and customizable utility that fits an everyday to a play day dual lifestyle.” DUAL PERSONALITIES = ENHANCED UTILITY Designed by Hyundai Design North America, the Veloster C3 Roll Top concept offers a distinctive canvas roof that opens to the rear or windshield of the vehicle. The cleverly designed dual-function power-retractable roof combined with the tailgate gives the C3 a dual personality. In convertible mode with the top rolled back, the C3 is a free spirit for driving along the Pacific Coast Highway. Roll the top forward, open the tailgate, fold the rear seats and the C3 goes into recreation mode - perfect for surfing, biking or kayaking. From Zuma to Sunset, stash boards in the back and go from surfing at the beach with friends to cruising the streets of downtown Los Angeles with the top down in seconds. The simple top is the perfect answer to the dual lifestyle and is completely customizable. FIXIE BIKE INSPIRATION Fixed gear bikes, or “fixies,” moved from trendy accessories for hipsters and into the bicycling mainstream. In most urban areas one can’t turn a corner without running into a group of riders zipping along the road or practicing tricks in a park. These colorful bikes are minimalistic with only a single speed and no brakes. They are also completely customizable to fit any ones style. From hand built wheels to color coordinated saddles and handlebars, half the bike is built by the customer and the other half by the manufacturer. The C3 offers the same experience with a simple, yet highly efficient and stylish design. All of the exterior modifications are low cost. Change the mirror caps and color of the rear wheels against the neutral white body and the C3 can take on an all new look. A driver can change the look quickly and easily. The relationship between car and driver completely changes when the modifications are done by the individual. The color palette chosen for the Veloster C3 Roll Top concept was influenced by the emerging fixed gear bicycle culture. The design team felt the C3 needed an urban color combination. During the process color combinations on a dozen fixie bikes were looked at before deciding on the red, white, black and teal scheme. The high gloss white paint of the C3 is contrasted by a flat black spoiler, glass close out and convertible top rails. The rear reflector bezels, license plate pocket and badge are also flat black. Upfront flat red mirror housings offset the flat black front wheels, fog lamp bezels, front grille and badging. Flat teal rear wheels, red reflectors and smoked taillights complete the look. The Veloster C3 Roll Top concept base design also features the following: Large free flowing circular exhaust pipes Robust intake manifold sound Big, bold hexagonal front grille Sculpted side skirts Diffuser vents in the lower rear fascia 18-inch wheels with chrome inserts Eight individual headlight LED accents SUSTAINABLE DESIGN Continuing with the urban theme, repurposed materials are used throughout the Veloster C3 Roll Top concept for added character and one-of-a-kind design. The convertible red soft top is inspired by billboard advertising found on rolling soft side trailers. An industrial billboard truck tarp with a black “The C3 Roll Top” statement logo was created, then repurposed and stitched together to create a unique graphic roll top. Red was chosen as a statement color to highlight the functionality of the roll top as well as match the black and red mirror housings, taillights and red rear reflectors. Inside the C3, broken and old skate board decks are repurposed and artistically line the cargo floor creating a unique mosaic. “We visit several shows and events like the International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF) in New York City every year to find new, exciting and interesting materials,” said Liz Curran, Hyundai color and trim expert from Hyundai Design North America. “This year we uncovered Art of Board, a company that makes hand cut tiles from 100 percent recycled skate decks. The decks are very durable and repurposed into art, shelves, benches and chairs. Every scratch, scrape and gouge is kept intact – adding character and making them truly original and each with its own story. They’re alive with texture, shape and color.” C3 features tiles from more than 20 skate boards on the cargo floor and rear seatbacks. Skateboard grip tape also lines the inside of the tailgate and accents the soft top when rolled forward. The black with red interior accents follow the same color scheme as the retractable roof and are highlighted by red stitching, red bolsters and a red C3 logo in the front seats. TWIN-SCROLL TURBOCHARGER AND GDI TECHNOLOGY A 1.6-liter turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine powers the Veloster C3 concept and produces 201 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 195 lb-ft of torque from 1,750 – 4,500 rpm with regular fuel. Hyundai’s 1.6-liter Gamma turbocharged engine features a twin-scroll turbocharger that when combined with the GDI system, results in instantaneous power delivery. View full article