2020 Hyundai Veloster Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

If you’re looking for a cool ride that doesn’t cost a lot of coins, be sure to check out the 2020 Hyundai Veloster. While this small hatchback’s affordability and best-in-class warranty make it a great choice for bargain hunters, improved performance makes it more entertaining to drive. Of course, everyone on the road will pay attention to the Veloster’s unique styling. Let’s find out why you should consider buying a new 2020 Hyundai Veloster.

What’s New for 2020?

Last year, the Veloster was completely overhauled. While the 2020 model has not received any monumental updates, there are a few changes worth mentioning. Blind-spot detection with rear cross-traffic alert has been added to the Turbo R-Spec trim’s list of standard equipment. Every new Veloster also receives standard cargo tie-downs. 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2020 Hyundai Veloster – The Pros

1. An Affordable Commuter Vehicle

The 2020 Hyundai Veloster is clearly an inexpensive ride. Hyundai has given the value-packed base model a starting price of less than $20,000. Most of the cars in this price class aren’t nearly as cool. You’ll certainly appreciate the Veloster’s money-saving warranty. Aside from providing a 60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, Hyundai also covers the powertrain for 100,000 miles. Don’t forget about this hatchback’s competitive fuel economy. Models equipped with the base four-cylinder engine can return up to 33 mpg.

2. Impressive Turbocharged Four-Cylinder Engine

A four-cylinder with 147 horsepower comes standard on the 2020 Hyundai Veloster. It’s perfectly adequate for daily commuting. However, many drivers will be more interested in the available turbocharged engine. Hyundai rates it to develop an engaging 201 horsepower. When tested, the turbocharged Veloster sprinted to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds. A good amount of low-end torque allows you to pass with confidence. Amazingly, you don’t even have to sacrifice any fuel economy.

3. Fun to Drive

If you are seeking more driving fun, the 2020 Hyundai Veloster should fulfill your cravings. It will deliver an enjoyable morning commute. A low center of gravity helps this lightweight hatchback to remain balance around tight corners. Even when equipped with its standard suspension, the Veloster has an athletic feel. however, driving enthusiasts will prefer the Veloster Turbo R-Spec. Sports-calibrated suspension dampers and Michelin Pilot Sport 4 performance tires help the Turbo-R-Spec trim to stay glued to the asphalt.

4. High-Performance N Model Delivers Pure Excitement

In terms of performance, the high-output Veloster N sits atop the lineup. It’s a true “hot hatch" that gets your blood flowing. To give the Veloster N a stronger punch, Hyundai equips it with a specially tuned engine. An optional Performance package enables the Veloster N’s larger turbocharged engine to squeeze out 275 horsepower. With a 0-60 mph time of 5.5 seconds, this model definitely accelerates like a sports car. You’ll also enjoy handling enhancements and a great-sounding performance exhaust.

5. Unique Styling Makes a Bold Statement

Ever since it first hit the streets, the Veloster has always been known for its exclusive exterior styling. Expect the new 2020 Hyundai Veloster to draw plenty of compliments. To give the Veloster the sleekness of a coupe, Hyundai equips it with a hidden third door. Racy styling cues, like a center-exit exhaust, come standard. Expect the Veloster N to look especially menacing with its larger rear wing. While six different paint colors are offered, Sunset Orange and Racing Red make an especially strong statement.

6. Enough Standard Equipment to Keep You Happy

When buying a new 2020 Hyundai Veloster, you won’t have to spend extra money to enjoy popular features. Right out of the box, the base Veloster 2.0 is well equipped. Featuring standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Hyundai’s touchscreen interface easily connects to your smartphone. Remote keyless entry is another in-demand feature. Most importantly, highly sought-after safety features come standard. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, lane-keeping technology, and driver attention warning give you extra peace of mind.

7. Top Safety Pick Credentials

Top Safety Pick credentials from the IIHS highlight the 2020 Hyundai Veloster as a secure car. It received a “Good” rating in all of this organization’s key crash tests. Aside from the previously mentioned standard safety features, you also have access to some additional driver-assist technologies. If you do a lot of driving in high-traffic areas, you’ll greatly appreciate the Veloster’s available pedestrian detection system. Blind-spot monitoring and smart cruise control are also on the list of options.

8. Available Premium Audio System Delivers a Powerful Soundtrack

Most drivers won’t mind listening to the Veloster’s standard six-speaker stereo. On the other hand, serious music fans will desire a more powerful soundtrack. The available Harman Kardon premium audio system will sound a lot more pleasing. Eight speakers help keep the cabin rocking. An external amp ensures audio quality remains good at all volumes. To ensure deep bass, this system is designed with a trunk-mounted subwoofer. Look forward to experiencing a more entertaining commute.

9. More Practical Than a Coupe

While coupes have a sharp look, they force you to make a few compromises. The 2020 Hyundai Veloster will prove to be a more practical choice. A concealed third door on the passenger side makes accessing the rear seats easier. Parents will greatly appreciate the extra convenience. You can also take advantage of this hatchback’s large storage area. There’s nearly 20 cubic feet of cargo space behind the backseat. You can quickly toss in grocery bags and other stuff.

10. Improved Ride Quality

The previous-generation Veloster did not offer the smoothest ride. Many automotive faulted the hatchback for its bumpy road manners. Fortunately, things have changed for the better. Hyundai updated the latest Veloster with a much-improved suspension. This upgrade makes the Veloster a more pleasing daily-driver.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2020 Hyundai Veloster – The Cons

1. Small Backseat

Front-seat occupants shouldn’t have any big complaints about the Veloster’s roominess. While small kids will fit fine in the rear seat, taller adults may not enjoy riding in the back. This is especially true for long periods of time. If passenger room is a key concern, consider the new Volkswagen Golf. It provides significantly more head- and legroom for rear-seat occupants.

2. Could Return Better Fuel Economy

The 2020 Hyundai Veloster is definitely not bad on gas. Nevertheless, it could still improve. Some rivals will save you more money at the pump. For instance, the EPA rates the Honda Fit to return up to 40 mpg. On the bright side, even the high-performance Veloster N is tuned to use regular unleaded gasoline.

3. Lacks All-Wheel Drive

Front-wheel drive is featured on every new Veloster. This car should perform well in rainy weather. However, wintry conditions may force you to stay home. Aside from not offering all-wheel drive, the Veloster also suffers from a low ground clearance. There’s a good chance you may become stuck in the snow.

4. Standard Headlights Are Not Great

If you decide to buy a new 2020 Hyundai Veloster, consider upgrading to the available LED headlights. The standard halogen headlights aren’t the best. They received a “Poor” rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. This is an especially important factor for folks who do a lot of nighttime driving.

5. Fully Loaded N Model’s Price

The exciting Veloster N is a serious performance value. However, it may still be a tad bit too expensive for some people. Opting for the N model’s Performance package increases its total cost to more than $30,000.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

2020 Honda Civic Hatchback

The Honda Civic Hatchback has garnered some impressive reviews. However, it has a noticeably higher MSRP. Drivers who choose the high-performance Veloster N over the Civic Type R stand to save more than $7,000. You’ll also appreciate the Veloster’s standard touchscreen. To get the Civic Hatchback with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone support, you must climb the trim ladder.

2020 Mazda 3 Hatchback

There are some perks to the 2020 Mazda 3 Hatchback. Its high-quality interior immediately stands out. However, there are a few disadvantages to the Mazda 3 Hatchback. Mazda does not currently offer a high-performance version of this car. Car shoppers will also appreciate the Veloster’s lower MSRP.

2020 Mini Hardtop 2-Door

You’ll find the 2020 Mini Hardtop 2-Door to be just as fun as the 2020 Hyundai Veloster. However, it’s tiny interior will scare away some people. Of course, you shouldn’t ignore the Mini Hardtop 2-Door’s more expensive price.

Conclusion

The new 2020 Hyundai Veloster is much better than the previous generation. Not only is the latest model more comfortable, but it also delivers a more satisfying driving experience. However, value remains a big highlight for the new Veloster. Because so many great features come standard, settling for the base model is not a bad idea. If you desire pure excitement, go for the electrifying Veloster N. Before buying a new Veloster, take note of its small rear seat.