Hyundai Veloster 1.6 GLS Turbo Review: Op-op-op-op-op-oppa Hyundai style

What we like:

Headturning exterior

surprisingly roomy cabin

smooth transmission.

What we dislike:

Interior needs more designer touches to match the exterior

steering needs some sorting out

no manual option for local market.

There is one characteristic of this force-fed engine that we’re not entirely enamored; it is rightfully powerful, but it exhibits coarseness near redline.

On the expressway, the Veloster is both balanced and composed; importantly, it is planted when driven at three-figure speeds. However, the electric power steering seen here might annoy some drivers, as it seems to self-centre artificially. Despite that, its steering feels taut while the suspension and indeed the whole chassis delivers less body roll while giving the driver a secure sense of control. It also maintains a very acceptable degree of ride comfort – long haul trips shouldn’t see any complaints from passengers.

Its brakes are stout and easy to modulate, whether decelerating gently for a red light or aggressively for a hairpin.

So does the Veloster Turbo have what it takes to overtake the Scirocco as the newest yuppy mobile?

Well, not yet. You see, the Veloster has some way to go still. Firstly, it’s interior needs more excitement to match the exterior. Secondly, the steering has to be kept more neutral with better response for enthusiastic driving. However in terms of value for money and cabin practicality, it definitely showed a thing or two to the VW.

That said, the Veloster Turbo is truly a good effort from Hyundai. Let’s hope the next version can match up more closely to the Scirocco in terms of performance.

For now, this is Oppa Hyundai style…

Credits: Story and photos by Azfar Hashim