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Hyundai Veloster N

Hyundai

Hyundai Veloster N: Hyundai's hot hatch (2018-2022). 275-286 horsepower turbocharged 2.0L. Albert Biermann tuned chassis. Competed
Photo: Elise240SX / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

Hyundai's hot hatch (2018-2022). 275-286 horsepower turbocharged 2.0L. Albert Biermann tuned chassis. Competed with Civic Type R.

The Hyundai Veloster N is a hot hatch produced from 2018 to 2022. The Veloster N was Hyundai first dedicated performance product under the N performance sub-brand. The car uses Theta II 2.0 turbo making 275-286 horsepower (depending on model year and Performance Package option), six-speed manual or eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, and chassis tuned by former BMW M head Albert Biermann. The Veloster N established Hyundai performance credentials. Reviewers consistently praised the chassis dynamics, steering feedback, and driver engagement. The Veloster N often won comparison tests against the Civic Type R, Volkswagen Golf R, and Renault Megane RS in budget hot hatch comparisons. The Veloster body style (three-door asymmetric layout - one door on the driver side, two on passenger side) is unusual. The Veloster N retained this layout but added more aggressive sport tuning. Production ended in 2022; the Hyundai N program continues with the Elantra N (sedan version of the N concept). On WhipJury, Veloster N submissions are highly active. Modified Veloster Ns with tunes, suspension, and aero modifications are common.

Veloster N specifications

Theta II 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder. 275 horsepower (standard) or 286 horsepower (Performance Package). Six-speed manual or eight-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (DCT). Front-wheel drive with electronic limited-slip differential.

Frequently asked questions about Hyundai Veloster N

Was the Veloster N better than Civic Type R?
Comparison tests of the era often had the Veloster N within seconds of the Civic Type R at most tracks. The Hyundai is generally cheaper, more accessible, and slightly less refined. The Honda has the edge in chassis precision and brand performance heritage. Both are excellent.
Why was the Veloster N discontinued?
Hyundai discontinued the Veloster across all variants in 2022 due to declining sales of the unusual three-door body style. The N performance program continues with the Elantra N (sedan body) and Ioniq 5 N (electric SUV). The Veloster N specifically ended with the Veloster lineage.
How much does a Veloster N cost?
Used pricing: $25,000-$35,000+ depending on condition and miles. Performance Package examples are at the higher end. The Veloster N provides accessible Hyundai N performance ownership at price points significantly below the Civic Type R.
Is the Veloster N reliable?
Generally yes for a Theta II engine. Hyundai had documented Theta II issues in earlier model years (2.0 turbo and 2.4 naturally aspirated), but the Veloster N use of the Theta II has been largely reliable when maintained. Regular maintenance and avoiding hard launches prolong engine life.
What is the Performance Package?
The Performance Package on the Veloster N adds: 19-inch wheels, Pirelli P Zero tires, 286 horsepower (vs 275 standard), variable exhaust valves with crackle pop on overrun, more aggressive engine tune, electronic limited-slip differential, and chassis enhancements. The Performance Package was the connoisseur Veloster N choice.

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