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Upgraded Veloster Transmission Could Provide a Needed Boost

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Upgraded Veloster Transmission red exterior redesign refresh Korea

Check out the new Veloster being launched in South Korea. That’s one nice-lookin’ Hyundai!

The Veloster remains a modest-selling model that straddles the line between mini-sports coupe and mild-mannered hatchback. It’s an odd bird, probably the most unusual in Hyundai’s lineup (at least thus far). It’s not efficient enough to be a practical compact, but it’s not powerful enough to impress in performance. That’s why its fans overwhelmingly prefer the Turbo variant for its added muscle.

So it’s no surprise the automaker is showing the Turbo some love with its latest update. A refreshed version of the Veloster is launching in South Korea, and its upgrades–particularly a spunky transmission–show promise for the future of the Veloster and its identity crisis.

Here’s a quick look at what we’ve seen on the newest model, particularly the upgraded Veloster transmission, a seven-speed double clutch gearbox.

Updates Include Upgraded Veloster Transmission and Sound Modifier

To target trendy consumers in their 20s and 30s who are looking for a compact coupe with attitude, Hyundai has injected the Veloster with robust charisma to make it more appealing under the hood.

Transmission

The most exciting feature is the the seven-speed double clutch transmission, which was finally confirmed after being rumored for months, with automatic shift and a sport mode. The upgraded Veloster transmission is paired with the standard 1.6-liter turbo gasoline engine, which has been milked to surpass 200 hp. The brakes and suspension have been retooled to accommodate the changes. This addition will undoubtedly reel in consumers who were hesitant about the Veloster’s capability.

The other feature worth noting from the Veloster’s facelift is the Beats Audio system, which includes an engine sound equalizer. It allows the driver to adjust the noise made by the engine based on six available choices. It’s something we haven’t seen offered before and clearly illustrates the Veloster’s intent to please many different customers.

Veloster Interior

Plenty of other additions make the Veloster stand out: dual-color sports seats with side bolsters; black coloring with tan, blue, and gray highlights; fresh alloy wheel covers;  silver trim for the grille; and a reorganized instrument cluster. Cosmetic improvements are minor, mostly making the model appeal more mild-mannered than its previous facade.

Estimates suggest the refreshed Veloster Turbo will cost US customers an extra $1,500-$1,700 when it arrives, which–for all the upgrades–is completely worth it.

Source: Hyundai and Auto Evolution