Hyundai introduces high-performance Veloster N to U.S. market

(October 25, 2018) WILLOWS, Calif. — Hyundai this week introduced its high-performance Veloster N model at a driving event at Thunderhill Raceway in Northern California. Hyundai had first introduced Veloster N as the first of its U.S. N models at the 2018 Detroit Auto Show last January.

Veloster N represents Hyundai’s highest performance vehicle ever for the U.S. market. Hyundai’s first U.S. market N model leverages the new-for-2019 Veloster platform, showcasing an even higher level of performance appealing to the most discerning of automotive enthusiasts. Veloster N will be available in the fourth quarter.

Hyundai says the high performance N brand was developed to make the driver’s heart beat faster whenever they’re behind the wheel. Instead of focusing on outright performance numbers, Hyundai chose to emphasize the N driver’s heartbeats per minute (BPM), rather than revs per minute (RPM). With fun-to-drive character as a top priority, Veloster N has been developed to deliver thrilling cornering ability coupled with everyday sports car drivability and race track capability.

Veloster N was born in Namyang, Hyundai’s global R&D center, and was thoroughly honed at its Nurburgring-based testing center in Germany.

“Veloster N takes Hyundai to a new level of purchase consideration for true driving enthusiasts in the U.S. market,” said Albert Biermann, president and head of Performance Development and High Performance Vehicle Division, Hyundai Motor Group. “The Veloster N is another example of Hyundai Motor's capabilities, creating an exciting sports car with thrilling dynamics combined with a compelling affordability equation as key to the N high-performance concept.”

The Veloster N offers a comprehensive degree of exterior, interior and mechanical differentiation even beyond the Veloster Turbo and R-Spec models.

Mechanically, Veloster N offers a larger 2.0-liter, direct-injected turbocharged powerplant over the Veloster Turbo. When equipped with the optional performance package, the engine boasts an available 275 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 260 lb.-ft. of torque from 1,450-4,700 rpm for responsive performance at every RPM range.



The standard Veloster N powertrain produces 250 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 260 lb.-ft. of torque from 1,450-4,000 rpm. The turbo system intercooler is isolated from the condenser and radiator for even more efficient cooling of the intake charge. The system also benefits from a two-stage induction system for maximum output at all rpm ranges. The engine compression ratio is 9.5:1, high for a turbocharged engine.

The high performance engine is backed up by a close-ratio, short-throw six-speed manual transmission with downshift rev-matching capability. The transmission uses carbon-coated synchro rings and gear material reinforcement for smoother operation and lower overall shift force coupled with a positive engagement feel. The Veloster N clutch also utilizes a double-layer facing clutch disc design for increased burst strength and torque capability.

In addition, the powertrain sports a multi-mode, high-flow active sport exhaust system with a variable exhaust actuator. In N mode, this system yields an exhilarating engine over-run exhaust crackle during spirited-driving upshifts and rev-matched downshifts. This is achieved, in part, via retardation of ignition timing specifically during throttle tip-out during sporty driving. This advanced exhaust system is further augmented with an Electronic Sound Generator that enhances the natural powertrain sound for an even sportier driving resonance between the engine and the driver.

Fuel economy for the Veloster N is an estimated 22 city, 28 highway and 25 combined.

Generous torque from the turbocharged powertrain is smoothly and efficiently driven to the tarmac by an N Power Sense Axle design. Veloster N’s Power Sense Axle geometry features a zero-scrub radius for more precise steering, quicker response, and a direct on-center feel, with increased steering linearity. The geometry is further optimized for linear torque build up and corner-exit precision. Roll angle is also decreased due to a shorter roll-moment arm, resulting in enhanced grip.

The motor-driven power steering system is rack-mounted and secured at three locations for reduced flex and more direct handling, especially during high-performance driving.

Unique suspension tuning is derived from a multi-mode electronically-controlled suspension with a track-focused N mode available. The suspension uses a load-transfer control system that reduces dive during braking, enhances roll control during cornering and reduces rear suspension compression under hard acceleration.