Styling: 2012 Hyundai VelosterThe 2012 Veloster boasts one of the boldest designs to hit the compact vehicle market in a while. Styling choices that help set the Veloster apart from the rest include a true three-door design, high-rise, swooping window frames and an overall sleek appearance. While most reviewers agree the exterior looks great, there are some quibbles that the design leaves something to be desired when it comes to driver visibility.
Access to the rear seat benefits from the full three-door design. This fact helps make the Veloster a good compromise between a sedan and coupe. However, rear passenger comfort suffers a bit from the rounded design. Up front, passengers will likely find little to complain about. With rear seats folded flat, the Veloster offers a maximum of 34.7 cubic feet of storage.
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Performance: 2012 Hyundai VelosterThe good news is that the Hyundai Veloster offers some of the most impressive fuel figures of any vehicle for the year. EPA estimates suggest a maximum of 29 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. The trade off, however, is engine performance that some might describe as sluggish. Powering the hatchback is a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder engine that makes do with 138 horsepower and 123 lb-ft. of torque. This powertrain requires more than 10 seconds to accelerate from 0-to-60 mph, which is below average when compared to other hatchbacks.
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Safety: 2012 Hyundai VelosterThe 2012 Veloster comes standard with antilock disc brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, front-side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, traction control and stability control. The vehicle also comes standard with BlueLink technology, which offers crash detection and SOS assistance similar to that of the GM OnStar service. The Veloster has yet to be crash tested by the IIHS or NHTSA.
Pricing and Features: 2012 Hyundai VelosterInitial asking price for the 2012 Hyundai Veloster is set at $17,300. While there are more affordable hatchbacks on the market, the Veloster does deliver a good level of standard features for the price. Base models come equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, LED accent lights, heated side mirrors, rear spoiler, cruise control, full power accessories, air conditioning, height-adjustable driver's seat, Bluetooth, six-speaker stereo, CD player, satellite radio, auxiliary input and a seven-inch touchscreen. Fuel savers will also be happy to hear there are two fuel economy coaching games that are designed to help the driver maximize fuel consumption.
Available options include larger wheels, chrome grille, black headlights, sunroof, premium stereo, leatherette seats, automatic headlights, navigation system, rearview camera and more. Top-of-the-line models are priced around $19,500
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