By the end of the year, the first N model in America will be available for purchase.
Officially, the 2019 Hyundai Veloster was the first U.S.-market car to be part of , the automaker’s new N performance brand. This is a bolder and more powerful offering than the Veloster Turbo and Veloster Turbo, which were also announced today. N has been launched overseas with the i30 . Like the i30 N and the Veloster N were developed and tested at the Nurburgring.
The 2019 Hyundai VelosterN has a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This is in contrast to the standard Turbo’s 1.5-liter. It produces 275 horsepower and 265 pound-feet torque. This engine is available at 1,450 to 4,700 RPM. That’s an increase from the 201 hp in the regular 2019 Veloster. Hyundai claims that the only transmission option is a six-speed manual. Hyundai also says that an upgraded clutch and synchronizers have been added for N duty. The manual gearbox will include an automatic rev-match system. This is similar to other performance models such as the Chevy Corvette and Honda Civic Type R.
The chassis modifications start with a “Power Sense” front suspension setup with a zero scrub design. This, like the Civic Type R, should reduce torque steer and, according Hyundai, provides better steering feel as well as linearity. An adaptive suspension can counter roll, pitch and dive at both ends. It is especially effective when it is set to “N” driving mode. An electronically controlled, limited-slip differential will further reduce unruly behavior.
An adaptive suspension can counter roll, pitch and dive at both ends. This is especially true when it’s set to the “N” driving mode. An extra reinforcement brace is also available for the rear multilink suspension.
The brakes can also be upgraded. They measure 13.0 inches as standard, or 13.6 inches for those who choose an upgrade. On 18-inch wheels, the standard wheel-and-tire package is Michelin Pilot SuperSports in size 225/40, while Pirelli P-Zeros can be ordered as an option on 19-inch tires in size 235/35.
Pricing and first drive of Veloster revealed:
There are many visual differences that make the Veloster N stand out from the regular model. It is shown here with the N-exclusive Performance Blue paint. There are also new side skirts and a larger exhaust. A rear diffuser, a larger hatchback spoiler, and those 18- or 19 inch wheels. New ducting has been added to the front fascia to channel more cooling air towards the larger brakes.
Interior accessories include sport seats made of bolstered cloth, as well as a few N-specific badges or other dress-up pieces.
The 2019 VelosterN is a significant step in Hyundai’s performance enhancements in the U.S. and will be more appealing to hot-hatch lovers than the standard Turbo model. Hyundai promises a “compelling affordability equation”, which will likely mean that the N is less expensive than its direct competitors. Those competitors include the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Honda Civic Si, as well as the Ford Focus ST and the Focus RS. The new Civic Type R, Focus RS and Golf R are also available.
The 2019 Hyundai VelosterN goes on sale in fourth quarter 2019.