Hyundai Veloster Rally Edition – limited edition coupe debuts in Chicago

The Hyundai Veloster may now have been axed in the UK, but on the American market it’s still going strong – as indicated by the latest round of revisions and a new range-topper.

Combining quirky styling with the same turbocharged drivetrain found in the Kia Proceed GT, the Veloster has proven much more popular in the States than it ever did during its three-year stay in the UK.

Turbo models develop 201bhp at 6000rpm from their 1.6 litres of capacity, with 195lb ft of torque available from 1750rpm. ‘Active Sound Design’ pipes greater levels of induction and exhaust sound into the cabin.

General alterations include new alloy wheel designs, a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and a host of infotainment features, but it’s the special Rally Edition that makes us wish it had continued a little longer.

Based on the Turbo, the Rally Edition utilises uprated spring, damper and anti-roll bars, as well as a set of Rays 18-inch alloy wheels that shed almost 2.3 kilograms per corner.

The car’s matt blue paintwork is new too, while its hue is replicated on several interior trim elements, including the grab-handle style bars on the centre console and the heavily-bolstered seats.

Carbonfibre-look aero accents, ‘Rally Edition’ floor mats and badging and a B&M Racing short-shift gearlever complete the Rally’s transformations.