THE Hyundai Veloster has been named one of the "10 coolest new cars under $18,000" by the leading US automotive valuation company, Kelly Blue Book. It applauded the Veloster for its unique three-door styling and innovative technology, which have also contributed to the new model being shortlisted in its category in the prestigious 2012 Middle East Motoring Awards. Two criteria - being fun-to-drive and fun-to-own - are critical among the deciding factors for Kelly Blue Book (kbb.com), which is a trusted new and used car information resource in the US. The Veloster was launched in the Middle East in August 2011 and is already proving popular with young buyers. This year it has been nominated by the influential jury of motoring journalists in the Middle East Motoring Awards for the 'Best Hatchback' award, which will be announced at the end of November. Tom Lee, Head of Hyundai's Middle East regional headquarters, commented: "The Veloster being named one of the coolest cars proves what Hyundai has set out to do, to make a vehicle that is unique and boasts individuality, with its charismatic, fluidic sculpture and 2+1 doors that has never been seen before. It is a car that is aimed at the next generation of drivers and drivers who want to standout of the crowd and be seen." Hyundai has entered a new market segment with the Veloster, targeting the youth market by bringing together the functionality of a hatchback with the sporty feel of a coupe. Featuring a wealth of standard kit that includes an engine stop/start button, cruise control, fully automatic air conditioning and an advanced multimedia system with a seven inch color touch-screen display and MP3 compatibility/iPod connectivity, the Veloster is ideal for cool urban living. The Veloster continues Hyundai's 'Fluidic Sculpture' design ethos, its flowing lines combining to create a distinctive form with strong proportions and an immediate sense of movement and balance. The Veloster also boasts a truly unique feature, with one door on the driver's side, and two on the passenger's side, helping aerodynamics and safety, it stands apart from any other car on the market. In the Middle East the Veloster is available in a variety of fun and vibrant colors and is powered by a 1.6-litre MPI petrol engine, delivering 130 PS @ 6300rpm and torque of 157 Nm (116 lb.ft) @ 4850rpm, powering it to a top speed of 200kph. – SG
