Hyundai reveals Veloster Turbo for Europe at Geneva Motor Show

■Veloster power output increases to 186 ps ■Increase in low-end torque to best suit European driving tastes ■First Hyundai application of new 1.6-litre T-GDI engine ■Engine and handling tuned to suit European driving tastes ■Cosmetic enhancements accentuate lively performance ■Style, practicality and technology of normally-aspirated Veloster maintainedAt the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, Hyundai will reveal a new turbocharged version of the 1+2 door Veloster sports coupe. Through the addition of a turbocharger, engineers at the Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Centre in Rüsselsheim, Germany, have boosted power output and increased low-end torque to best suit European driving tastes and enhance driver enjoyment.The Veloster Turbo is the first Hyundai to feature the company’s 1,6-litre GDI engine with a high-compression, twin-scroll turbocharger.  In European specification, this new T-GDI unit generates 186 ps and 270 Nm of torque.  In non-turbocharged form, the Veloster offers 140 ps and 167 Nm.Tony Whitehorn, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor UK, commented: “UK drivers tend to prefer more torque from a lower engine speed, so our European engineers have specified a set-up that still provides a substantial increase in power – up from 140 ps to 186 ps – while also delivering the desired low-end torque.  The resulting package is very competitive against the performance of competitors such as VW Scirocco and Vauxhall Astra.”“Veloster has quickly established itself as a fun car and a unique proposition,” Whitehorn added.  “The enhanced performance will increase the Veloster’s appeal for drivers who want the perfect combination of stand-out design, a fun drive and the practicality of a hatchback.”Maximizing fuel efficiency and performance, the new engine has an air-guided intercooler, direct fuel injection system and dual CVVT, with a bed plate and a serpentine auxiliary belt adopted for enhanced engine reliability.  Accelerating from 0-60 mph, Veloster Turbo takes just 8.4 seconds (manual) compared to the 9.7 seconds (manual) of the regular Veloster*Exact CO2 emissions and fuel economy figures for the new Veloster Turbo will be announced nearer to launch in the UK.Veloster Turbo is fitted with a quicker-ratio steering rack and a revised steering calibration to match, which provide for precise cornering, feedback and control.  As with the turbocharged engine, the front and rear suspension set-ups have been tuned to match the expectations of European drivers.The driving experience is further enhanced by the sport-tuned engine intake and exhaust notes: the trapezoidal centre tailpipes of the normally-aspirated Veloster have been replaced with two larger free-flowing circular pipes, allowing for a more robust sound.To handle the power enhancements, Veloster Turbo is paired with a standard six-speed manual transmission – developed in-house by Hyundai – featuring a wider gear ratio spread to handle the additional torque output. The new Veloster Turbo has the same practical appeal as the original model, thanks to the innovative 1+2 door design.  It also now features unique front and rear bumpers and foglights, new rear spoiler and grille, new 18-inch alloy wheels with chrome inserts, projection headlights with unique LED headlight accents, and unique LED taillights.  These elements further accentuate the car’s eye-catching styling and add a greater emphasis on its performance.The Veloster Turbo will come with Hyundai’s industry-best Five Year Triple Care assurance – a combination of a five-year unlimited warranty, five years of roadside assistance and five years of vehicle health checks.  Pricing for the UK will be announced nearer launch.* Figures stated are manufacturer’s estimates

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