Overview
At only three years old, the 2022 Hyundai Veloster N is still relatively new to the hot-hatch scene, but it has put the old guard on notice. With a 275-hp turbo-four that makes delightfully juvenile noises and a chassis that causes stirring emotions, Hyundai’s three-door hatch is as funky as it is fun to drive. It’s also offered with a satisfying manual transmission (unlike the new VW Golf R) or a rifle-action dual-clutch automatic (unlike the current Honda Civic Type R). While revitalized versions of the rear-drive Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86 rival the Veloster’s prodigious performance-per-dollar ratio, the front-drive N challenges their cargo and back-seat space. We wish the Hyundai’s interior was nicer, but it has a host of popular standard features and tech. Although 2022 Veloster N isn’t as highly revered as other hi-po compacts, it should be praised for being a thrill ride almost everyone can afford.
What’s New for 2022?
The 2022 Veloster N is unchanged from the previous model year. However, with Hyundai’s decision to kill off the rest of Veloster lineup, which we’ve reviewed separately in past years, the N model is now the only way to get the three-door hatch. For ’22, the company’s performance-oriented N brand also introduces the Elantra N and the Kona N, both with up to 286 horsepower.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Aside from a small selection of paint colors (red, white, blue, or black) and a handful of accessories, the Veloster N comes one of two ways: with a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed wet dual-clutch automatic. The latter brings a nifty overboost function that temporarily raises the turbo-four’s max torque rating from 260 to 278 pound-feet. That’s fun, but we’d stick with the manual and save the $1500 surcharge.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Veloster N feeds the front wheels via a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 275 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. While a six-speed manual transmission is standard, choosing the optional eight-speed dual-clutch automatic adds an overboost function that temporarily increases torque from 260 to 278 pound-feet. Every N has a drive-mode selector includes Eco, Normal, Sport, and N drive modes. The N Custom mode allows you to custom-tailor settings for the engine’s throttle response, the standard adaptive dampers, the limited-slip diff, the selectable engine rev matching, the stability control, the steering weight, and the exhaust. In the manual-transmission 2019 Veloster N that we had in our long-term fleet, we found that turning most of those dials up to 11 while taming the dampers and the exhaust is particularly effective at balancing the N’s performance for commutes around southeastern Michigan. Unfortunately, the N’s adaptive dampers make for a firm and choppy ride; we took to leaving them in their softest default setting to make it more agreeable. In our testing, the Veloster N ripped to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds and completed the quarter-mile in 13.8 seconds at 102 mph. We have yet to test a Veloster N with the newly optional automatic transmission, but we think it will be slightly quicker than the manual.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The manual-transmission Veloster N is rated at 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The automatic model is rated lower at 20 mpg city and 27 highway. We tested the latter on our 75-mph highway route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, and observed a notable 30 mpg. For more information about the Veloster N’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The quirky, three-door layout opens to reveal that the compact dimensions of the Veloster translate into an interior that is plasticky, dark, and drab. With the exception of the snug rear seats, however, it is comfortable, and its controls are all laid out easily within reach. Leather is only featured on the steering wheel and the shift knob, and the instrument cluster features LED shift lights. New lightweight sport seats are standard and offer heating and a light-up logo in the backrest. With the back seats in use, there was room for four of our carry-on suitcases; with the seats folded flat there was room for 13 of them. However, the opening of the hatchback is small and the lift-over height (the height measured from the ground to the ledge of the hatchback) is quite tall at 31.5 inches.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Hyundai’s standard 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system is easy to operate even if it lacks navigation. Hyundai says the software is upgraded for 2021, although we have yet to interact with it ourselves. An Infinity premium audio system with seven speakers plus a subwoofer is standard; it features SiriusXM satellite radio with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. There’s also a Bluetooth hands-free phone system with voice recognition and Hyundai’s Blue Link Connected Care and Remote package (Connected Care features in-vehicle service reminders and service scheduling, diagnostic alerts, and enhanced roadside assistance, while the Remote services include the ability to pre-warm or pre-cool the interior for up to 10 minutes before you get in and lock and unlock doors remotely.)
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The Veloster N comes standard with several driver-assistance systems. For more information about the Veloster’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard forward-collision warning
- Standard blind-spot monitoring
- Standard lane-keeping assist
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Hyundai is known for its lengthy warranties, and the Veloster N is no exception. Its coverage is among the best in its class. The company also offers complimentary scheduled maintenance that bests mainstream rivals such as Toyota.
- Limited warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles
- Complimentary maintenance is covered for three years or 36,000 miles
