Hyundai
Veloster Rally Edition
Just
like the Veloster Turbo R-Spec it is based on, the Rally Edition features the
same updates as the rest of the Veloster line. Modifications include a larger
hexagonal front grille, a slightly revised rear bumper with new diffuser vents,
and a new LED signature for the headlamps. But while the R-Spec is equipped
with contrasting side skirts and splitter, the Rally Edition has them finished
in a carbon-fiber-like look. The grille frame and the 18-inch alloy wheels are
painted black for a sportier appearance. All told, the "Hyundai"
badges and the wheel center caps are the only chrome elements still adorning
the exterior.
To
further set the Rally Edition apart from the R-Spec model, Hyundai added
"Rally Edition" badging and an exclusive Matte Blue paint. While the
new hue is gorgeous to look at and works well with the Veloster’s sculpted
body, it’s the only color the Rally Edition comes in. It would’ve been nice for
Hyundai to offer a couple more exterior paints for this hot-hatch.
On
the inside, the Rally Edition is mostly standard 2016 R-Spec, except the Rally
Edition comes with black leather and blue-accented sports seats, a significant
upgrade over the R-Spec’s cloth surfaces and leatherette bolsters. The same
blue accents are on the door panels and the center console, while most silver
inserts are now gray for a stealthier appearance. Other goodies include the
Rally Edition-embroidered floor mats and the short-throw B&M Racing
shifter, the latter also borrowed from the Veloster Turbo R-Spec.
Motivating
the Rally Edition is the same turbocharged, 1.6-liter four-banger found in both
the Veloster Turbo and Turbo R-Spec models. The four-pot carries over unchanged
into 2016, meaning it generates 201 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 195 pound-feet
of torque from 1,750 rpm. What’s different here is that the engine mates
exclusively to a six-speed manual transmission, with no option for the newly
introduced dual-clutch automatic.
This
means the Rally Edition needs 7.3 seconds to charge from 0 to 60 mph, a
half-second slower than the Veloster Turbo equipped with the automatic
transmission. The hot-hatch is also a full second slower than the Golf GTI and
1.4 seconds slower than the Focus ST. Not exactly hot, eh? Fuel economy should
remain at the previous model’s 25 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined
This
is where the Rally Edition stands out. It features a higher-performance tune
for the springs, dampers, and front stabilizer bar, which translates into more
responsive and precise handling. Granted, the Rally Edition isn’t as nimble as
the Focus ST, but it’s the best-handling Veloster you can buy as of 2016.
The
bespoke Rays 18-inch alloy wheels are also lighter than the R-Spec’s, helping
to make the Rally Edition 20 pounds lighter. Unfortunately, that’s not likely
to affect the car’s performance from 0 to 60, so don’t expect any improvements
in that department. On the other hand, it should improve dynamics slightly. The
rollers come wrapped in 225/40R18 performance tires, also offered on the R-Spec
model.
Since
the Veloster Rally Edition is still a few months away from hitting dealerships,
pricing is still a mystery. However, given the 2016 R-Spec model will only see
a mild price hike to around US$ 22,000, expect the leather seats and the
chassis updates to take the Rally Edition into the US$23,000 range.
