2022 Hyundai Veloster N Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

People in search of a budget-friendly performance car should test drive the 2022 Hyundai Veloster N. This fun-to-drive hatchback’s practicality makes it a great option. Not only is the compact-sized Veloster N easy to fit into small spaces, but it also offers just as much cargo space as some SUVs. Another plus is Hyundai’s extra-long warranty package. Here’s a rundown of the reasons why you should consider buying a new Veloster N.

What’s New for 2022?

Hyundai decided to discontinue the Veloster’s less powerful trim levels. This means only the high-output Veloster N model remains in the lineup.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2022 Hyundai Veloster N – The Pros

1. Packs a Lot of Value

The 2022 Hyundai Veloster is a great option for driving enthusiasts who want to have fun on a budget. This hot hatch has an appealing starting MSRP of less than $33,000. This is a sweet deal for a car with its performance capabilities. When purchasing a new Veloster N, buyers will receive one of the top warranty packages in the business. A 100,000-mile drivetrain warranty and a 60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty give owners great long-term protection.

2. Quick & Engaging to Drive

The heart of the Veloster N’s powertrain is its turbo four-cylinder engine. Hyundai tunes it to generate a racy 275 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Drivers can definitely look forward to enjoying an animated performance. When launched from a stop, this car dashes to 60 mph in around 4.8 seconds. This means the Veloster N will have no trouble keeping up with today’s other hot hatches. To give the car an exciting sound, Hyundai equips it with a three-mode sport exhaust.

3. Performance-Tuned Transmissions

Hyundai allows Veloster N buyers to choose from two performance-tuned transmissions. A slick, close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox comes standard. Rev-matching technology helps drivers to downshift smoothly while keeping the engine in its ideal powerband. Meanwhile, the optional six-speed automatic transmission’s dual-clutch design enables it to rapidly shift gears. Shift paddles are mounted under the steering wheel, thus giving drivers manual control if desired. Along with the automatic transmission comes an Overboost button that helps promote maximum performance.

4. Tight Handling Adds More Fun

Drivers will appreciate the agility of the 2022 Hyundai Veloster N. It handles especially well for a front-wheel-drive performance car. A standard limited-slip differential helps prevent torque steer under hard acceleration. Drivers will be able to dance around curves with greater confidence. A standard adaptive suspension system enables you to customize the car’s ride comfort. While the Normal mode is perfect for driving on public roads, activating the N mode stiffens the suspension for enhanced stability on the track.

5. Aggressive, Coupe-Like Styling

Many people are fond of the Veloster N’s aggressive exterior styling. A sloping roofline makes this hatchback look more like a sports coupe. A low-slung ride height also gives the Veloster N a mean stance. Large exhaust finishers and a two-stage spoiler in the rear add to the hatchback’s racy appearance. Aside from enhancing styling, the car’s sport wheels are also designed to help keep the brakes cool. Of the four available paint colors, Performance Blue attracts the most attention from onlookers.

6. Hidden Third Door

The 2022 Hyundai Veloster N has the appearance of a two-door coupe. However, there’s actually a third door hidden on the car’s passenger side. A disguised handle enhances the Veloster N’s sleek profile. Aside from boosting this hatchback’s styling, the third door also comes in handy when traveling with additional passengers. They can quickly step inside without any extra hassle. Another benefit of the third door is that it allows drivers to easily toss cargo into the backseat.

7. Simple Yet Highly Modern Infotainment System

It does not take much brainpower to use Hyundai’s infotainment system. Simple menus make it easy to navigate the interface’s 8.0-inch color touchscreen. Physical buttons and knobs further simplify operation. As expected, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are built into the system for effortless smartphone integration. When traveling, onboard navigation eliminates the need for drivers to use their smartphone to obtain GPS directions.

8. Comprehensive List of Standard Safety Technologies

A more than sufficient number of accident-avoidance technologies come standard on the new Veloster N. The car’s driver attention warning system helps prevent a fatigue-related crash. When driving on a busy roadway, blind-spot warning monitors for motorists approaching from the rear. Meanwhile, automatic emergency braking can intervene to prevent a potential forward collision. Other key driving aids found on the Veloster N include active lane control and rear cross-traffic alert.

9. Offers Good Daily Comfort

Despite being a performance model, the 2022 Hyundai Veloster N still provides good daily comfort. Car reviewers praise the car’s sport front seats for their excellent lateral support. These seats also do a fine job of holding passengers when taking tight curves. Although the Veloster is a compact model, it can accommodate taller drivers. There is a tad more than 42 inches of legroom in the front.

10. Infinity Premium Sound System

The Veloster’s standard Infinity audio system produces a delightful sound. Whether stuck in traffic or cruising along the freeway, music fans will be able to rock out. It offers the clarity of a far more expensive stereo unit. This system comes with a total of eight speakers. A rear subwoofer enables listeners to enjoy distortion-free bass. The unit's 7-channel amplifier with Clari-Fi technology also helps ensure a clear sound. Satellite radio is included as well.

Reasons Not to Buy a 2022 Hyundai Veloster N – The Cons

1. Limited Backseat Room

Like most hatchbacks, the 2022 Hyundai Veloster N provides lots of space in its rear cargo area. Unfortunately, this car has a limited amount of backseat space. Most six-footers will experience discomfort when sitting in the back. The Veloster N’s sporty roof also cuts into the available rear headroom. Expect the new Volkswagen GTI to have a more family-friendly interior design.

2. Rather Rigid Ride

While the Veloster N is quite comfortable to drive, some people may not be fond of its rather rigid ride. While the car’s stiff suspension tuning promotes better handling, it sacrifices ride quality. This is especially true when switching to one of the performance driving modes. Drivers can expect to feel a bit of harshness as they’re traveling over rough pavement.

3. Less Efficient Than Some Competitors

With the 2022 Hyundai Veloster N being a small vehicle, one would expect it to offer great fuel economy. While the car’s gas mileage isn’t terrible, it’s not nearly as frugal as some other high-performance hatchbacks. When equipped with a manual transmission, the Veloster N will deliver an EPA-estimated 22 mpg town/28 mpg freeway. Fuel economy actually dips to 20 mpg city/27 mpg freeway with the automatic gearbox. Most rivals can surpass 30 mpg on the open road.

4. Not a Great Performer in the Snow

Unsurprisingly, the Veloster N is not the best performance car for snow-prone areas. A ground-hugging stance makes it more prone to getting stuck. The hatchback’s standard Pirelli P Zero summer tires also don’t perform as well in cold weather. Furthermore, Hyundai does not give buyers access to an AWD system.

5. Interior Can Be q Bit Noisy at Times

Drivers should not expect the Veloster N to be as quiet as a luxury vehicle. There will be some road noise entering the cabin. Wind noise is also present at fast speeds.

 

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

2022 Hyundai Veloster N vs 2022 Volkswagen GTI

The redesigned 2022 Volkswagen GTI is among the segment’s highest-rated models. It offers more premium features, such as a customizable digital gauge cluster and ventilated front seats. However, Hyundai’s warranty drivetrain warranty is twice as long. Some people also find the Veloster N to be more entertaining to drive.

2022 Hyundai Veloster N vs 2022 Subaru BRZ

When shopping for an affordable sports car, many people will also be considering the 2022 Subaru BRZ. While the BRZ is a fine choice, it’s not quite as practical as the Veloster N. Not only does the Veloster N provide a more usable backseat, but it also provides significantly more cargo space. A longer warranty gives the Veloster N another win.

2022 Hyundai Veloster N vs 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback

The redesigned Honda Civic hatchback offers a fun Sport trim. However, it’s not as exciting as the Veloster N. A much stronger engine rests underneath the Veloster’s hood. While Honda’s drivetrain warranty lasts for 60,000 miles, Hyundai provides 100,000 miles of coverage.

Conclusion

Folks who desire a practical sports car will like what the 2022 Hyundai Veloster N brings to the table. It excels at rewarding drivers with an exciting performance. Extra cargo space and a hidden third door also give this hatchback an advantage over a traditional sports coupe. Although this car only comes in a single trim level, plenty of must-have features come standard.

Before deciding to buy a new Veloster N, be aware of its weak points. There’s not a ton of space in the backseat, thus making the Veloster less suitable for long-legged families. Fuel economy is also below average for the class.