Hyundai Veloster N
2019-2023
The Veloster N represents Hyundai's transformation from economy car maker to serious performance brand. It's a no-compromise hot hatch that prioritizes driving engagement over luxury amenities, delivering track-ready performance at an accessible price point.
Quick Take
The Veloster N is Hyundai's first serious hot hatch effort, developed with input from the company's WRC team. It features aggressive aerodynamics, performance-tuned suspension, and an optional Performance Package with enhanced cooling and limited-slip differential.
Best For
Key Strength
Track Performance Per Dollar
Watch For
Interior Quality
The Story
Heritage & Legacy
Born from Hyundai's N performance division, the Veloster N draws directly from the company's World Rally Championship experience. It's the spiritual successor to affordable performance cars, bringing serious track capability to the masses without requiring a premium badge.
Design Philosophy
Function follows form with the Veloster N's aggressive aerodynamic package and asymmetrical door layout. Every design element serves a performance purpose, from the large rear wing to the functional air intakes, creating a distinctly purposeful and race-inspired aesthetic.
The Driving Experience
Engine Character
The turbocharged 2.0-liter delivers immediate throttle response with minimal lag, building power linearly to redline. It's an eager and rev-happy engine that encourages spirited driving, with a character that's more sophisticated than its displacement might suggest.
Chassis Dynamics
The N-tuned suspension strikes an excellent balance between track capability and street comfort. The chassis is taut and communicative, with excellent body control and precise steering that builds confidence through corners while remaining compliant enough for daily use.
Sound Signature
The N Performance Exhaust produces an aggressive growl under acceleration with satisfying pops and crackles on overrun.
Strengths & Tradeoffs
Defining Strengths
The Veloster N delivers legitimate track capability at a fraction of the cost of European alternatives. Its electronically controlled suspension, Brembo brakes, and aggressive Pirelli P Zero tires provide confidence-inspiring performance on circuit.
The manual transmission, rev-matching system, and adjustable drive modes create an involving driving experience. The steering is communicative and the throttle response is immediate, making every drive engaging.
Honest Tradeoffs
While functional, the interior uses cheap plastics and lacks the premium feel of German rivals. The infotainment system can be laggy and the rear seats are essentially unusable for adults.
The asymmetric door configuration is polarizing, and the sloping roofline limits rear headroom. Cargo space is decent but the opening is narrow compared to traditional hatchbacks.
Ideal Owner
Perfect for driving enthusiasts who want genuine performance car thrills without premium pricing or maintenance costs.