There’s a new hot hatch in town, and adding to the growing pool of turbocharged 1.6-litre pocket rocket is the Hyundai Veloster Turbo facelift. Hyundai Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) is quick to bring this one in, considering that the facelifted model was just launched in its native country sometime in January.
QUICK FACTS
| Name | 2015 Hyundai Veloster Turbo |
| Engine | 1,591cc; Gamma T-GDi petrol |
| Transmission | 7-speed dual clutch transmission |
| Max Power | 184 hp @ 5,500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 265 Nm @ 1,500 to 4,500 rpm |
| 0 – 100 km/h; Top Speed | Under 8 seconds; 220 km/h |
| Price (OTR without insurance) | from RM150,000 (including GST) |
Staged to make its official debut here in mid-April 2015, HSDM has already started taking orders for this fully imported (from Korea) hot hatch and thrown in a ballpark figure for those interested. Get this, it will cost upwards of RM150k with GST but without insurance. This means the Veloster Turbo is costlier than most rivals, some of which are more distinguished hatches built on a history of racing credentials.
Offered here in one configuration only, the Veloster comes with the brand’s turbocharged 1.6-litre T-GDi (petrol, direct injected) engine that produces 184 hp at 5,500 rpm and 265 Nm of torque from 1,500 to 4,500 rpm. That’s 2 horsepower and 25 Nm of torque more than the Fiesta ST, all of which is sent to the front wheels via a new in-house developed seven-speed dual clutch transmission. The other two cars in this segment to come with a DCT are the Renault Clio RS (6-speed) and the Volkswagen Polo GTI (7-speed).
Engine aside, the Veloster Turbo sits on 18-inch wheels and rides on a firmer set of suspension to accommodate the sportier drive. Its front fascia gets tweaked a little, sporting a new grille and rounded fog lamps. The front bumper is also redesigned, complemented with a lip to go with the sporty stance. Over the back, the Veloster Turbo gets a pair of centralised exhaust tips and sportier bumper.
The Veloster Turbo takes the fight to the venerable Ford Fiesta ST, Renault Clio RS, Volkswagen Polo GTI and Peugeot 208 GTI. Hyundai will also be offering the Veloster Turbo in a limited edition Matte Grey colour, and like other Hyundai models, it will come with a five-year or 300,000km warranty programme. The launch is just around the corner now, so stay tuned for the latest updates!
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