Hyundai might not be the first name that springs to mind when you think of exhilarating hot hatches, but the 2021 Veloster N is here to change that perception. This three-door sensation has seemingly appeared from nowhere to deliver a knockout punch in the performance car arena. Forget about the price tag for a moment – it’s genuinely difficult to find a car that offers more fun on four wheels than the Hyundai Veloster N, especially when equipped with the engaging six-speed manual transmission. After spending considerable time behind the wheel, including an impromptu 10-hour road trip, it’s clear this car isn’t just fun; it’s worthy of being considered among the all-time greats in its class. Let’s dive into why the 2021 Hyundai Veloster N continues to be a benchmark for hot hatch enthusiasts.
The High Points of the 2021 Hyundai Veloster N
Unbeatable Value Proposition
Priced at an as-tested $33,255, the 2021 Hyundai Veloster N stands as an unparalleled champion in the realm of affordable driving joy and performance. While the interior might betray its economy car roots with the use of some hard plastics, this becomes a trivial concern once you experience the potent powertrain and the remarkably well-engineered front-wheel-drive chassis. In fact, the Veloster N delivers a more rewarding driving experience than some considerably more expensive rear-wheel-drive sports cars, including the Toyota Supra 2.0. Dare we say, some drivers might even prefer the Veloster N over the Supra 3.0! The only true competitor in this price bracket is the Honda Civic Type R, which still carries a price premium of around $5,000 over the Hyundai. For the sheer level of performance and driving thrills on offer, the 2021 Hyundai Veloster N represents astonishing value.
Image alt text: Angled front view of the 2021 Hyundai Veloster N in Performance Blue, showcasing its sporty stance and unique three-door design.
A Motor That Thrills
Under the hood of the 2021 Hyundai Veloster N lies a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine churning out 275 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Paired with the six-speed manual transmission, this powerplant propels the Veloster N to 60 mph in a brisk 5.5 seconds. However, the numbers alone don’t fully capture the sheer responsiveness and eagerness of this engine. The manual gearbox necessitates a shift to third gear just shy of 60 mph to avoid hitting the rev limiter in second, but once you’re in the meat of the powerband, the Veloster N truly takes off. With a weight just over 3,000 pounds, this hot hatch feels every bit as quick as more powerful cars. The robust midrange torque, kicking in from around 3,000 RPM, makes it feel exceptionally rapid in real-world driving scenarios. While it might lack the ultimate top-end rush of some larger engines, there’s no denying the 2021 Hyundai Veloster N is a seriously quick machine. Adding to its appeal, it’s surprisingly fuel-efficient, achieving up to 32 MPG on the highway and averaging around 27 MPG overall, even during spirited driving. A 500-mile trip, including city driving, yielded an impressive 30 MPG average, highlighting its dual nature as both a performance car and a capable daily driver.
The joy of tapping into that abundant midrange is amplified with each upshift, delivering a continuous wave of acceleration. The six-speed manual transmission is a tactile delight, encouraging enthusiastic gear changes. While four-cylinder engines aren’t typically known for their soundtracks, the Veloster N produces a surprisingly engaging “brap” that evokes memories of World Rally Championship cars. It’s a sound reminiscent of classic Mitsubishi Evos or Eclipse GSXs, especially when pushing the engine and gearbox hard.
Image alt text: Close-up of the 2021 Hyundai Veloster N’s front grille and headlight, emphasizing its aggressive and sporty design elements.
Race-Car Inspired Handling Prowess
While the cliché of “race-car handling” is often overused, the 2021 Hyundai Veloster N genuinely possesses a front-end grip that’s reminiscent of a touring car. The Veloster N’s exceptional handling is no exaggeration. In fact, Veloster N race cars compete in the Michelin Pilot Challenge, alongside prestigious series like IMSA, a testament to its track-ready engineering. The level of grip is phenomenal, exceeding anything typically experienced in a front-wheel-drive car, virtually eliminating understeer. Even when the Pirelli P Zero tires begin to protest with audible squeals, the front axle remains steadfast, maintaining tenacious grip. The chassis is incredibly responsive and communicative, allowing for confident throttle application even when exiting corners. Hyundai’s engineers have dubbed this technology the “Power Sense Axle w/Corner Carving differential,” a name that perfectly encapsulates its function. The steering is equally impressive, offering excellent feedback, substantial weighting, and a direct, immediate turn-in response.
The 2021 Hyundai Veloster N offers multiple driving modes, including the playful “N Grin” mode, accessible via a checkered flag button on the steering wheel. Engaging this mode sharpens the car’s character, stiffening the adaptive suspension to virtually eliminate body roll. Quick transitions and simulated slalom maneuvers at speed reveal the Veloster N’s remarkable agility and responsiveness – it changes direction with such immediacy that it almost feels telepathic. In comparison, even a car with aftermarket performance coilovers can feel cumbersome and less responsive, highlighting the Veloster N’s exceptional chassis dynamics.
Image alt text: Action shot of the 2021 Hyundai Veloster N cornering on a track, demonstrating its impressive handling and agility.
Being a potent front-wheel-drive vehicle, torque steer is a potential concern. Fortunately, the Veloster N’s advanced differential effectively mitigates torque steer in most situations, preventing unwanted wheel tugging. However, when accelerating aggressively on uneven surfaces or applying heavy throttle during slow, tight turns, the inherent front-drive tendencies can become apparent. Therefore, it’s advisable to exercise caution and ensure a reasonably smooth road surface when demanding maximum acceleration from lower speeds.
Styling That Strikes the Right Balance
In contrast to some overtly styled hot hatches, the 2021 Hyundai Veloster N presents a more restrained yet undeniably sporty aesthetic. It avoids the overly aggressive and cartoonish design language seen in some competitors, opting for a more mature and sophisticated appearance. Tasteful enhancements subtly hint at its performance capabilities, most notably the striking Performance Blue paint, the signature color of Hyundai’s N division. The Veloster N boasts a taut and purposeful stance, with muscular fenders and a long hood that contributes to its athletic profile. In silhouette, its proportions bear a resemblance to the iconic Audi Sport Quattro, albeit with more contemporary, rounded features. The wide and low visual impression of the Veloster N is particularly appealing when viewed head-on. Even the rear spoiler is tastefully integrated, avoiding an overly flamboyant appearance. The Veloster N strikes a compelling middle ground in terms of visual aggression, positioned between the understated Volkswagen Golf GTI and Golf R, and the more polarizing Honda Civic Type R.
Image alt text: Side profile of the 2021 Hyundai Veloster N, highlighting its unique three-door configuration and sporty silhouette.
Surprisingly Comfortable for Long Drives
Despite its budget-friendly origins, performance-tuned suspension, and supportive bucket seats, the 2021 Hyundai Veloster N proved surprisingly comfortable even on extended journeys. A 500-mile day trip, with over 10 hours spent behind the wheel, revealed no significant discomfort or fatigue. While it’s not aiming to be a luxury sedan, the Veloster N offers a level of comfort that belies its performance focus. The supportive seats hold you securely in place during spirited driving, yet remain comfortable enough for long highway stretches. This balance of performance and usability makes the Veloster N a genuinely versatile hot hatch.
Minor Drawbacks of the 2021 Hyundai Veloster N
N Mode: Use with Discretion
While engaging N mode unlocks the full performance potential of the 2021 Hyundai Veloster N, it’s best used judiciously. The adaptive suspension, which contributes to the car’s exceptional cornering ability, becomes significantly firmer in N mode, resulting in a considerably harsher ride. The change is more pronounced than in many other cars with adaptive suspension systems. Therefore, unless you are driving on perfectly smooth roads, activating the “N Grin” button might be less enjoyable on public roads.
Image alt text: Interior view of the 2021 Hyundai Veloster N, focusing on the sporty steering wheel with N mode button and driver-focused cockpit.
The N mode also dramatically alters the exhaust note. While the standard exhaust sound is pleasingly raspy and rally-car-like, N mode introduces an abundance of artificial-sounding crackles and pops that can become excessive. Even casual upshifts at low RPM trigger these exhaust theatrics, which can feel somewhat contrived. While some drivers may appreciate the added drama, others might find it bordering on cartoonish, especially in everyday driving. The exhaust also becomes considerably louder in N mode, which could be a positive or negative depending on personal preference. However, above 5,000 RPM, the exhaust note in N mode takes on a more aggressive and genuinely enjoyable character.
It’s worth noting that these crackles and pops are reportedly a byproduct of a factory anti-lag system. While anti-lag is a technically interesting feature, its contribution to reducing turbo lag in the 2021 Hyundai Veloster N is debatable, particularly as the engine already feels responsive in normal driving modes. Ultimately, while the anti-lag system is a novel inclusion, it primarily contributes to the somewhat artificial exhaust sound in N mode.
Manual Transmission: Not Quite Perfect, But Still Engaging
The mere availability of a manual transmission in a new performance car is cause for celebration, and opting for the six-speed manual in the 2021 Hyundai Veloster N is highly recommended over the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic. However, the manual transmission isn’t without minor imperfections. The clutch engagement point can feel somewhat vague at times, and requires deliberate throttle input to prevent stalling during slow-speed maneuvers. The shifter, while remarkably easy to use, feels a little too light for a performance car. While gear selection is effortless, a shifter with more weight and resistance would better complement the car’s sporty character. Despite these minor criticisms, the joy of rowing your own gears in the Veloster N remains undeniable.
Image alt text: Rear spoiler detail of the 2021 Hyundai Veloster N, showcasing its aerodynamic design and sporty rear aesthetic.
The manual transmission also includes a rev-matching feature for downshifts. However, its implementation is somewhat unconventional. Unlike systems that rev-match as you move the gear lever towards the next gear, the Veloster N’s system rev-matches after the gear is selected and as you release the clutch. This delayed rev-matching can feel slightly slow and less effective. While the system can be deactivated, a more refined implementation, perhaps through a software update, would be beneficial.
Conclusion: The 2021 Hyundai Veloster N – A Performance Bargain That Delivers Immense Fun
Despite these minor critiques, the 2021 Hyundai Veloster N remains an exceptional performance car, particularly considering its remarkable price point. It’s a resounding success for Hyundai, demonstrating their commitment to creating genuinely engaging driver’s cars. The “N” designation, representing Hyundai’s Namyang research and development center, and the influence of Albert Biermann, formerly of BMW M, are clearly evident in the Veloster N’s dynamic capabilities. Driving the 2021 Hyundai Veloster N on twisty roads reveals a car that feels like it could have been conceived by BMW during their golden era of front-wheel-drive hot hatches, if such a car had ever existed.
Even when disregarding its affordability, the 2021 Hyundai Veloster N stands out for its ability to ignite driving passion and bring a constant smile to your face. In an automotive landscape increasingly dominated by digital interfaces and the decline of manual transmissions, the Veloster N offers a refreshing return to core driving values. It’s a focused and engaging machine that prioritizes the essential elements of driving enjoyment. The 2021 Hyundai Veloster N is a truly fantastic creation that comes highly recommended, and it’s a car that will convert even the most ardent front-wheel-drive skeptics.
2021 Hyundai Veloster N Specifications
As-Tested Price: $33,255
Pros: Exceptional performance; razor-sharp handling; infectious driving fun; unbeatable value.
Cons: N mode exhaust pops can be overdone; light and slightly vague manual shifter.
Verdict: A phenomenal achievement and the benchmark hot hatch for driving enjoyment at its price point.
Image alt text: Front three-quarter view of the 2021 Hyundai Veloster N in Performance Blue, highlighting its aggressive front fascia and sporty design.
