2014 Hyundai Veloster Review
2014 Hyundai Veloster Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Lots of features for the money
- distinctive styling
- fuel-efficient engines
- lengthy warranty.
Cons
- Not as sporty as it looks
- harsh and unsophisticated ride
- slow base engine
- noticeable road noise
- limited rear-seat access and headroom.
What’s new
For 2014, the Hyundai Veloster lineup expands to include a slightly less expensive Turbo R-Spec model, while last year's RE:MIX trim level is replaced by the new RE:FLEX Edition (late availability). In addition, the base 2014 Hyundai Veloster gets a rearview camera, LED daytime running lights and a driver side blind spot mirror as standard. All Veloster Turbo models get a brake-based torque-vectoring feature designed to improve handling around tight turns, while automatic climate control is newly optional.
Edmunds says
The 2014 Hyundai Veloster is not as fun to drive as it looks, and its ride can be harsh. But with its ample features list, efficient engines and distinctive styling, this unusual hatchback remains an intriguing alternative to regular old economy cars.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2014 Hyundai Veloster 3dr Hatchback w/Black Interior (1.6L 4cyl 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.36 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$140/mo for Veloster Base
Veloster Base
vs
$174/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Vehicle overview
If you want a small, affordable, fuel-efficient car with a dash of personality, there are quite a few options to choose from this year. One offbeat candidate you might consider is the 2014 Hyundai Veloster, a sporty-looking hatchback with an interesting twist: Instead of two or four doors, it has three. Hyundai designed the Veloster with a longer, single door on the driver's side to let the driver in and out with ease and two shorter doors on the passenger side, to allow easier access to the backseat. Although the real-world usefulness of this design is debatable, it definitely makes the Veloster stand out from more conventional rivals.
Plus, if you're comparing the Veloster to smaller two-door hatchbacks and coupes, that third door really does make it easier to get in and out of the backseat, install child safety seats and load groceries. Along with that extra measure of practicality comes a long warranty and a generous standard equipment list. Even base Velosters come with Bluetooth, a USB input, a rearview camera and a 7-inch touchscreen electronics interface.
However, the engine in the base Hyundai Veloster makes all of 138 horsepower, so if you're expecting much in the way of velocity (as the car's name implies), you'll likely be more interested in the Turbo and Turbo R-Spec models. Both get a more powerful turbocharged engine, but the new-for-2014 R-Spec model is a bit less expensive and gets various performance upgrades like a stiffer suspension, sportier steering and a sport shifter. Both Turbo models also have a new torque-vectoring system that selectively applies the brakes to help the Veloster get the power to the pavement when you're accelerating out of tight turns.
Although these updates should make the 2014 Hyundai Veloster a bit more fun to drive than earlier versions, Hyundai's three-door coupe has some catching up to do in this department. Although both of the available engines are fuel-efficient, they're not especially potent, and the Veloster is significantly slower than most similarly priced rivals. Another issue is ride quality, as this coupe tends to ride harshly around town, while its lack of composure over bumps detracts from its handling abilities. Although the more aggressively tuned Turbo R-Spec model could prove to be more enjoyable on twisty back roads, buyers who commute on potholed roads will want to a take a thorough test-drive before committing to this version. Finally, from the standpoint of practicality, bear in mind that while this Hyundai is more versatile than most two-door hatchbacks, almost every four-door hatch on the market has it beat for maximum cargo space.
Accordingly, you'll want try a few of the 2014 Veloster's two- and four-door rivals before making a decision. Among four-door hatchbacks, the 2014 Volkswagen GTI should definitely be on your list, though it will cost you a bit more. The VW offers an excellent blend of speed, comfort and agility and has the nicest (and roomiest) passenger quarters of any car in this price range. Priced slightly below the GTI, the 2014 Ford Fiesta ST and the 2014 Ford Focus ST are also great choices, particularly if sharp handling matters as much to you as fuel economy and ride comfort. If you want a smaller two-door package, we recommend looking at the 2014 Mini Cooper S and 2014 Fiat 500. Both are fun to drive and bursting with personality, and the Mini gained useful interior room in its recent redesign. With so many desirable hatchbacks available for similar money, the 2014 Hyundai Veloster doesn't rank among our top picks, but it's still worth considering as an alternative to an everyman's economy sedan.
Performance & mpg
The front-wheel-drive 2014 Hyundai Veloster comes standard with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 138 hp and 123 pound-feet of torque when equipped with the standard six-speed manual transmission. It produces 132 hp and 120 lb-ft of torque with the optional six-speed automated manual transmission known as DCT (this transmission is standard on the RE:FLEX Edition).
In Edmunds performance testing, a manual-equipped Veloster went from zero to 60 mph in 9.5 seconds, which is average for a budget-priced subcompact hatchback, but not exactly swift. A DCT-equipped Veloster we tested was nearly a second slower. Equipped with a manual transmission, the base Veloster gets an EPA-estimated 30 mpg combined (26 mpg city/35 mpg highway). The DCT version is rated at 31 mpg combined (28 mpg city/36 mpg highway).
The Veloster Turbo and Turbo R-Spec get a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder good for 201 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque regardless of whether it's paired with the standard manual transmission or the traditional six-speed automatic transmission, which is optional only on the Turbo model.
In Edmunds testing, a manual-equipped Turbo went from zero to 60 mph in 7.7 seconds, which is slower than average for a sporty compact hatchback. Equipped with the manual gearbox, the Turbo and R-Spec models are rated at 28 mpg combined (24 mpg city/33 mpg highway); automatic versions are rated at 27 mpg combined (24 mpg city/31 mpg highway).
Safety
Every 2014 Hyundai Veloster comes standard with antilock brakes, traction and stability control, front side airbags and side curtain airbags. Also included is BlueLink, Hyundai's emergency telematics system, which offers roadside assistance, crash response, remote door lock control and monitoring features for parents with teenage drivers (speed, geo-fencing and curfew limits).
In Edmunds brake testing, the base Veloster came to a stop from 60 mph in a class-average 121 feet, while the Veloster Turbo needed 126 feet, which is longer than average for a sporty coupe or hatchback. In government crash testing, the Veloster received five out of five stars for overall crash protection, with four stars for frontal-impact protection and five starts for side-impact protection.
Driving
Although the Veloster looks like a sporty hatchback, it doesn't really drive that way. The base model is downright slow, especially when equipped with the automated manual transmission. Acceleration is significantly improved on the Turbo and Turbo R-Spec models, but their performance is still well off the pace of hot hatches like the Ford Fiesta ST, Focus ST and Volkswagen GTI. On the other hand, the 201-hp 1.6-liter engine in these models is impressively refined, and the power comes on so smoothly that you almost can't tell it's turbocharged. The manual transmission is easy to shift, too.
At a relaxed pace, both the base and Turbo models are reasonably capable around turns. However, if you start pushing the car harder on twisty back roads, you'll notice that it's not as sharp or refined as most rivals. In addition, the steering is overly light and not especially communicative, and the suspension is easily upset by bumps and ruts. This translates to a harsh ride in normal driving situations. Hyundai says it has made improvements to the suspension and steering on the new Turbo R-Spec model. We haven't yet tested the 2014 Hyundai Veloster Turbo R-Spec, but we'll update this review once we have.
Interior
The most prominent feature of the 2014 Hyundai Veloster is its three-door layout. While the single driver-side door creates a coupelike appearance, the two smaller passenger-side doors provide added convenience for loading people or parcels. Once you pass through the single rear door (and be careful not to clip your head on the truncated opening), you'll find a backseat that's roomier than most coupes but less spacious than most hatchbacks. There's a decent amount of legroom, but the seat cushion is mounted quite low and headroom is limited by the sloping rear roof line that places the heads of its occupants under the sun-warmed glass of the hatch. The deep trunk holds 15.5 cubic feet under that hatch. With the seats folded down, maximum cargo capacity is 34.7 cubes. That's respectable if you're comparing the Veloster to two-door coupes, but most compact hatchbacks have at least 10 additional feet of space.
Up front, the cabin boasts a youthful and modern design that never seems cute or gimmicky. There is an abundance of hard plastic, but it's textured for a more favorable appearance. The Veloster's controls are well organized, and the standard touchscreen interface is easy to use. Besides an iPod interface and Bluetooth connectivity, Pandora Internet radio is standard as well.
2014 Hyundai Veloster models
The 2014 Hyundai Veloster is a four-passenger hatchback with three doors (one on the driver side and two on the passenger side) and three trim levels: base, Turbo R-Spec and Turbo.
The base Veloster comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, LED running lights, heated mirrors, full power accessories, keyless entry, a rearview camera, cruise control, air-conditioning, a height-adjustable driver seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, BlueLink emergency telematics, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, a 7-inch touchscreen electronics interface and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio, an auxiliary audio jack, an RCA audio/video jack, Pandora Internet radio capability and an iPod/USB audio interface.
The optional Style package adds a panoramic sunroof, chrome and piano-black exterior trim, cloth/leatherette premium vinyl upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, aluminum-trimmed pedals, piano-black interior trim and an eight-speaker LG Dimension premium audio system. To this package the Technology package can be added. It adds 18-inch alloy wheels with body-matching painted inserts, rear parking sensors, automatic headlights, keyless ignition/entry, a 115-volt household power outlet and a navigation system.
Similar to the Style package, the RE:FLEX Edition (late availability) builds on the base Veloster's standard equipment list, adding different 18-inch wheels, foglights, LED taillights, chrome exterior trim, leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped wheel and shifter, aluminum-trimmed pedals, piano-black interior trim and the upgraded audio system.
New for 2014 is the Veloster Turbo R-Spec, which is available only with a manual transmission and includes the RE:FLEX Edition equipment (though it has leatherette upholstery rather than leather). It also features a more powerful engine, a lower body kit, sport-tuned suspension and steering, a B&M sport shifter, a torque-vectoring system that selectively applies the brakes to improve handling around tight turns, and an Active Sound Design feature (late availability) that channels exhaust sounds through the stereo speakers to heighten the excitement of driving your Veloster.
Compared to the R-Spec version, the Veloster Turbo features slightly less aggressive tuning for the suspension and steering along with a few additional creature comforts. It adds unique 18-inch alloy wheels, different styling elements, keyless ignition and entry, heated front seats, driver lumbar adjustment and leather upholstery. The Ultimate package adds the rear parking sensors, a panoramic sunroof, automatic headlights, automatic climate control, a 115-volt outlet and a navigation system.
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Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
4 out of 5 stars4/5Above Average
#30 out of 46 among Compact Cars
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Hyundai Veloster from 2008-2022.$477/yr
vs. $416/yr
for Average Compact Car
for Average Compact Car
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).0.97x/yr
vs. 1.01x/yr
for Average Compact Car
for Average Compact Car
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).14.1%
vs. 10.4%
for Average Compact Car
for Average Compact Car
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2014 Hyundai Veloster.
5 star(44%)
4 star(19%)
3 star(7%)
2 star(11%)
1 star(19%)
73 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.75 out of 5 stars
Fun car!
mh200, 12/25/2012
2013 Hyundai Veloster 3dr Hatchback w/Gray Interior (1.6L 4cyl 6AM)
Test drove several cars from Honda, Scion and Toyota. BORING! Reporters please Stop comparing to a CRX. May I remond you how much you all complained about the styling among other things? The Veloster does many things well and yes it is a quirky car to drive. So what do you get? You get a car that is sporty, different, great gas mileage, huge cargo area, great foot room, awesome features … and a blast to drive! It feels much faster than the numbers suggest (though off line is not great) but this is why it turns over those great gas numbers. This car is no Acura, BMW or mini and should not be compared at this price point. I love mine and FYI my other car is a BMW!
4.63 out of 5 stars
Love this car!
blantzy, 08/11/2013
2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo 3dr Hatchback w/Black Interior (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
I love the look of the car - I have the orange one. I like how fast it accelerates and it gets good gas mileage. The technology on it is pretty cool - like satellite radio and bluetooth and being able to remote start the car. The heated seats are a plus, and it has keyless entry so I never need to fumble for my keys to get into the car. The keys just stay in my purse.
One problem I … had immediately after leasing it is that the sound system would make a vibrating rattling sound when I'd turn on the radio at a medium to high volume.
4.75 out of 5 stars
Perfect Combination of Style, Value and Quality
diablito30349, 01/15/2013
2013 Hyundai Veloster 3dr Hatchback w/Gray Interior (1.6L 4cyl 6M)
I have owned this car for a little over a month and put about 2800 miles on it, and I love it.
After reading (and watching) literally every car review done for this car, I was comfortable with what this car is, and isn't.
I really was surprised by how quiet the ride is.
The suspension is a little firm so you feel the bumps a little more, but it's not too bad.
I also think the engine is … perfectly adequate for what this car is intended to be (a sporty looking economy car).
It's not as "underpowered" as a lot of reviews would have you believe.
I also love the bold design of the car.
This shows that you can get something economical without feeling like you're driving a toaster on wheels.
4.63 out of 5 stars
Funky, quirky little car
denjb, 05/06/2014
2013 Hyundai Veloster 3dr Hatchback w/Gray Interior (1.6L 4cyl 6M)
I've had my 2014 Veloster for 2 weeks now - and I gotta admit - I LOVE this car!
There's a few weird little things that I'd change about it, but for the money, I am very satisfied with the purchase.
It's styling is cutting-edge both inside and out.
The standard features on a base model impressed me.
It turns heads, and it's fun to drive!
I opted for the 6 speed manual transmission, and … I"m glad I did, because with an automatic transmission, this engine wouldn't let this car get out of it's own way.
That aside, the fit, finish, and clean lines remind me of a much more expensive European car - Hyundai did something right with their new models!
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2014 Hyundai Veloster, so we've included reviews for other years of the Veloster since its last redesign.
2014 Veloster Highlights
Base
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $17,800 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 30 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $140/month |
Seating | 4 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 15.5 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Veloster include:
- Back-up camera
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
NHTSA Overall Rating
5 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall4 / 5Driver4 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover10.5%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestMarginal
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalAcceptable
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
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