The Hyundai Veloster, with its distinctive three-door design and sporty aspirations, offered a unique proposition in the compact car market. Choosing the right model year is crucial to ensure you get the most reliable and enjoyable experience. This guide will delve into the best and worst years of the Veloster, helping you make an informed decision.
Hyundai Veloster Model Year Overview
| Model Year | Key Strengths | Potential Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|
| 2012 | Innovative design, good fuel economy (non-turbo) | First model year issues, potential engine problems (non-turbo), quirky handling |
| 2013 | Improved automatic transmission, available turbo model | Potential engine problems (non-turbo), suspension can feel harsh |
| 2014 | Minor refinements, better infotainment system | Still some reports of engine issues (non-turbo), turbo lag noticeable |
| 2015 | Standard rearview camera, improved interior materials | Oil consumption issues reported in some turbo models |
| 2016 | Updated infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto | Some reports of clutch issues in manual turbo models |
| 2017 | Final year of the first generation, good value for money | Aging platform, potential reliability issues due to age |
| 2019 | Redesigned model, more powerful engines, improved handling | New model year teething issues possible, more expensive than previous generation |
| 2020 | Veloster N introduced, exceptional performance | Veloster N can be harsh for daily driving, non-N models lack excitement |
| 2021 | Minor updates, continued Veloster N performance | Veloster N fuel economy suffers, limited rear seat space |
| 2022 | No significant changes, reliable platform | Veloster N price point can be high |
| 2023 | Discontinuation of all Veloster models except the Veloster N | Veloster N is the only option |
| 2024 | Final year of the Veloster N | Limited availability, potential for increased maintenance costs as the model ages |
Detailed Explanations
2012: The inaugural year of the Veloster was marked by its bold design and focus on fuel efficiency in the base model. However, it also faced typical first-year production issues, including some reports of engine problems, particularly in the non-turbo models. The handling could also feel a bit quirky compared to more established competitors.
2013: Hyundai addressed some of the initial concerns with the 2013 model, notably improving the automatic transmission. The introduction of the turbo model added a significant performance boost. Still, potential engine issues persisted in the non-turbo variants, and the suspension could feel firm, leading to a less comfortable ride.
2014: Minor refinements and an improved infotainment system were the highlights of the 2014 Veloster. While the engine issues were less prevalent than in previous years, they weren't entirely eliminated. The turbo lag remained a noticeable characteristic of the turbo models.
2015: A standard rearview camera and upgraded interior materials made the 2015 Veloster a more appealing option. However, some owners reported oil consumption issues, especially in the turbo models, which is a concern to be aware of.
2016: The addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to the infotainment system significantly enhanced the user experience in the 2016 model. Clutch problems in the manual turbo models were reported by some owners, potentially leading to premature wear or failure.
2017: The final year of the first-generation Veloster offered good value for money. However, buyers should be mindful of the aging platform and potential reliability issues associated with older vehicles.
2019: The redesigned Veloster in 2019 brought more powerful engines, improved handling, and a more modern interior. As a new model year, it was important to be aware of possible teething issues that might arise in the early production runs. The price point was also higher than the previous generation.
2020: The introduction of the Veloster N marked a significant step forward in performance. Its track-focused nature provided an exhilarating driving experience. However, the Veloster N's stiff suspension and aggressive tuning made it less suitable for daily driving comfort. Non-N models felt less exciting in comparison.
2021: Minor updates kept the Veloster competitive, and the Veloster N continued to impress with its performance capabilities. The Veloster N's fuel economy suffered due to its high-performance engine, and the rear seat space remained limited.
2022: The 2022 Veloster saw no significant changes, offering a reliable platform. However, the Veloster N's price point remained relatively high, potentially deterring some buyers.
2023: All Veloster models were discontinued except for the Veloster N, making it the sole choice for those seeking the Veloster's unique design. This meant that the only Veloster available was the high-performance N model.
2024: The final year of the Veloster N, the 2024 model, has limited availability. As it ages, the car could potentially incur higher maintenance costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Veloster year is the most reliable? The 2022 Veloster N is generally considered one of the most reliable due to fewer reported issues and a mature platform. However, reliability can vary based on individual vehicle maintenance and driving habits.
Are there any years of the Veloster I should avoid? The 2012 and 2013 non-turbo models are best avoided due to higher reported instances of engine problems. Early production runs often have more issues.
Is the Veloster N a good daily driver? The Veloster N can be a good daily driver if you prioritize performance over comfort, but its stiff suspension and aggressive tuning may not be ideal for everyone. Consider your daily driving needs before committing.
What are the common problems with the Hyundai Veloster? Common problems include engine issues in early non-turbo models, oil consumption in some turbo models, clutch issues in manual turbo models, and potential infotainment glitches. Regular maintenance can help mitigate these issues.
Does the Veloster hold its value well? The Veloster's resale value is average compared to other compact cars, with the Veloster N generally holding its value better due to its performance focus and limited production. Factors like mileage, condition, and trim level affect resale value.
Which Veloster year has the best features for the price? The 2016 Veloster offers a good balance of features and price, with the inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto making it a practical and enjoyable option. It's also far enough into the production run to have addressed many initial issues.
Conclusion
Choosing the best year for a Hyundai Veloster depends on your individual needs and priorities. While the 2012 and 2013 models may be tempting due to their lower prices, the potential engine issues make them less desirable. The later years of the first generation, like 2016 and 2017, offer a good balance of features and reliability. If performance is your top priority, the Veloster N models from 2020 onwards are excellent choices, but be prepared for a stiffer ride.