At last: Hyundai introduced today the 2012 Veloster at the North American International Auto Show, a new coupe which introduces a unique third door for easy rear-seat access. Under the hood of this car we find the all-new Gamma 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, the smalles engine from the Korean manufacturer to use the Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) technology which helps deliver an estimated highway fuel economy of up to 40 mpg.
The engine also delivers a total output of 138 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and maximum torque of 123 lb.-ft. at 4,850 rpm. The engine is mated to a standard six-speed manual transmission or an all-new, six-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT).According to the manufacturer, the new 2012 Veloster design takes inspiration from a high-performance sport bike, and features distinctive black A-pillars that give give the glass a motorcycle helmet visor appearance.
The front shows an aggressive look with Hyundai's signature hexagonal front grille, hood scoop detailing, and unique Hyundai-signature LED position lights. Moreover, the optional packages add a chrome grille surround, piano black highlights, fog lights, and a massive panoramic sunroof. The car comes as standard with 17-inch alloy wheels and offers two types of 18-inch wheels as an option. The top-of-the-line 18-inch wheel comes with painted inserts, a segment first.
Inside, the motorcycle-inspired design is resembled by the center stack and controls which look like a sport bike fuel tank and incorporate an available push-button starter. The air vents are inspired by motorcycle tailpipes, while the floor console mirrors the seat of a bike. Regardingthe third door, this comes as a premiere for today’s coupes. Still, it is not the first coupe to use smaller rear-hinged access doors as this design was used by some cars in the past. The Veloster rides on a 104.3-inch wheelbase, with an overall length of 166.1 inches and width of 70.5 inches.
