Thursday, June 16, 2011

Hyundai Veloster: our driving impressions

Hyundai Veloster: after seeing her for the first time at the Detroit Motor Show and in detail at the headquarters in Frankfurt, has finally arrived when the first test drive, even on a pre production model. We must say that live on the road, it is confirmed that this is a crossover for those who prefer not to go unnoticed.

The Veloster is distinguished by a line, "bold", certainly in a position to talk about himself. The concept of "fluid sculpture" of the latest Hyundai in this case is an extreme: innovative forms that they want to forget the models with which the Korean house had appeared on the market until recently.

The solution 1 +2, or a single rear door on the right side is what strikes you immediately. This allows you to have two faces, more sporty or more reassuring, depending on which side you look. The rear door handle integrated with the window, and despite this the window itself appears to be larger than the left side.

The front has an aggressive appearance, accentuated by the design of the headlights and radiator grille design from the hexagonal element is now the "family feeling" of the latest Hyundai. Interesting solution to the tailgate, which is divided into two parts bounded by the spoiler with integrated third stop lamp.

The bottom allows for good visibility, but what amazes me is the brightness offered by the top, which becomes an extension of the panoramic roof. About the rear visibility, no problems during parking space using the camera back, tested by time on other models, allows to obtain a good overview of the surrounding area while the operation is facilitated by the guidelines shown on the display .

Said the line that is being noticed. At Frankfurt airport parking, the initial stage of our test, there are three proposed models. I choose without delay to yellow than the traditional gray finish. Definitely eye-catching, is the color that I personally find most appropriate to highlight the details of the design of Veloster.

Adjourn the proceedings on the details of the interiors: as mentioned initially, we were informed that the model being tested is the last pre series, while final production should start this week. Actually you can still see the plastic parts that never would be used to test models for sale, but this does not prevent us from assessing the overall quality of the car.

So ready and so, towards Hockenheim, about 90 km away from Frankfurt. The weather conditions are not the best, but to test the Veloster is maybe better that way. The first sensation is of being on board a model of the upper segment. With electrical controls you can easily find the best driving position, while the lumbar support is a valuable for those suffering from back problems.

Good space on board for the driver and passengers, although the highest in the back seat could have some problems in finding the ideal location. Excellent interior lighting thanks to the panoramic roof power-adjustable for both riguara when the opening for the curtain. Technology Top Level outset with touch screen 7 "from which you can also control the air conditioner.

And 'this navigation system with "Blue Max Eco Guide" to eco-driving, support for iPod and iPhone, external auxiliary jack, Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free phone calls. Obviously also the steering wheel controls for important functions. The ease of driving is what is evident from the first approach with the Veloster.

Despite the appearance arrembante, the engine is docile aspirated 1.6 petrol direct injection which delivers 140 hp at 6,300 rpm. A reassurance for those who think that it is not wise to leave in the hands of too many young horses with little experience. This does not mean that the Veloster is "knackered", the recovery is still good on the highway and the progression of the engine makes itself heard.

Due to a combination of adverse weather, traffic, road works and speed limits, it was possible to launch the Veloster over 170 km / h for brief periods only. In these cases, the noise affects the comfort and safety with which the car moves on the asphalt under all'acquazzone sudden, which leads to the feeling of being in a car of much higher rank.

At the ACAC Driving Safety Center which is located inside the circuit in Hockenheim, we were able to make a series of tests with confidence. These simulations made visicido Fund from the rain rather than snow-covered or frozen solid, with a grip that can change suddenly without warning.

Obviously our goal was to undermine the car, driving in reverse as specified by the instructor correct German. The outcome of these tests is unique. With the stability control is active driving safely. What is striking is the feeling the car that tries to keep the original trajectory in terms that go beyond the guide every day both in terms of speed and road surface.

This means that you must "commit" to commit voluntarily those normally considered "errors" in driving. The proof is antithetical to the behavior of the car without stability control: in these cases, loss of control is much easier. In the narrow paths between the pins as the slalom, the steering is precise and the suspension shows offer a good compromise regarding comfort without giving too much pitch and roll.

We come then to the price. There is still no official figures but it comes to around € 21,000 for the 1.6 that we had in qualifying, available in dealerships later this summer. Later will come the dual-clutch automatic gearbox and six-speed DCT: a first for Hyundai. On the front of the stands Veloster will be offered in two versions.

They will be available with the navigation system display screen tocuh 7 ", air conditioning, panoramic sunroof, leather seats, alloy wheels 18", most systems ESP, ABS and ISG (start & stop) and six airbags. Summarizing, we can say that the Hyndai Veloster is a car for people who want to stand out with a car with an original design and aggressive look.

At the same time the couple Veloster ESP and ABS makes a very safe car, perfect for novice as well as those who do not like a car with too many difficult and horse taming.

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