Hyundai Sime Darby Motors launched its new Veloster Turbo and Turbo Sport variants today at its recently constructed Global Dealership Space Identity (GDSI) boutique showroom in Bangsar. As its name suggests, the Veloster Turbo uses forced induction by way of a turbocharger. The 1.6 litre four cylinder Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engine on the new car produces a respectable 186 hp ane 265 Nm of torque – enough to propel the car to 100km/h from a complete standstill in just 8 seconds.
The gearbox sees an upgrade over the Veloster Premium as well. The two turbocharged trims come with paddle-shifters to operate the Shiftronic on the car’s Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) system.
“The 1.6L Veloster Turbo model demonstrates Hyundai’s innovation in powertrain technologies, optimising the appeal to youthful customers by combining excellent fuel economy, spirited performance and low emissions without compromise,” said Mr. Lau Yit Mun, Managing Director of Hyundai Sime Darby Motors.
The new car features a few aesthetic upgrades. The front bumper and foglights have seen some changes over the naturally-aspirated 1.6L Premium model, but the more notable change is the switch to HID projector lamps, which are a tad more aggressive and stylized. There’s also the new front grille that extends as a single continuous piece from trunk lid to bottom lip.
Over at the rear, we get a circular twin exhausts instead of angular ones and these appears to have been revisions to the bumper, spoiler and diffuser as well. There are also new 18 inch rims that are less flashy that the original’s, but just as sporty. Of, course, the 2+1 door arrangement synonymous with the Veloster brand is carried over untouched, and it’s still a fairly large car, despite its coupe-inspired bodystyle.
The two versions of the Veloster Turbo are truly differentiated on the inside, with two kinds of interiors finishes available. The regular is RM4,000 cheaper to buy OTR, but lacks the rather sporty looking orange trim that comes with the Turbo Sport, which seems like a reasonably priced upgrade for added flair.
GDSI showrooms are a part of Hyundai’s push toward the premium segment, with this outlet being the first in the Klang valley. The compact but well-spaced building features floor-to-ceiling glass walls and is designed to increase the brand’s image.
Hyundai has extended an invitation to the public to visit the showroom, where the Veloster Turbo will remain on display. The Veloster Turbo’s RRP is RM139,319,39, while the Sport model comes in at RM142,741.39. Opening hours are as follows:
Monday – Saturday : 8.30am to 8.00pm
Sunday/Public Holidays: 9.30am to 6.30pm
