The North American International Auto Show continues
as Hyundai has used to event to unveil the Veloster N TCR race car. Set to compete in this year’s
IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge, the Veloster will battle the Audi RS3 LMS TCR,
Honda Civic Type R TCR and Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR.
That’s not exactly easy competition, but the
Veloster already has a bit of a racing pedigree. The car
shares around 85 percent of its core components with the championship-winning
i30 N TCR.
One of the components sourced from the i30 N is a
turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 350 hp and 450 Nm of torque. It is connected to a six-speed sequential
transmission which sends power to the front wheels.
Of course, race cars are more than just a
high-performance engine. As a result, the Veloster has composite body panels, a
massive rear wing and 18-inch Braid wheels. The latter components are backed up
by a race-spec braking system that features six-piston calipers and 380mm
ventilated discs up front.
The modifications don’t end there as the model has
been equipped with an aerodynamic body kit, a steel roll cage and a track-tuned
suspension with adjustable dampers. Other highlights include a configurable
driver’s display and a Sabelt racing seat with a six-point harness.
Bryan Herta Autosport has been tapped to be
Hyundai’s sales agent for the Veloster N TCR in the United States and they will
also provide technical support as well as parts assistance. The first customer
deliveries are slated to begin in March and pricing starts at US$ 154,905
(£ 120,165 / € 135,000) excluding shipping from Germany.
