Hyundai Motor America has introduced a new member to its sporty R-spec family, the stripped-down Veloster Turbo R-spec.
The latest Veloster marks the fourth R-spec model in Hyundai’s line up, joining the Genesis Coupe 2.0T R-spec, Genesis Coupe 3.8 R-spec and Genesis 5.0 R-spec.
The R-spec is powered by the same 150kW/265Nm 1.6-litre direct injection turbocharged engine used in the regular Veloster SR Turbo.
The R-spec gets some unique design cues, including red exterior accents on the front apron and side skirts, and specialR-spec exterior badges and embroidered floor mats.
Hyundai says that in keeping with the R-spec’s purist driving focus, some of the premium features found in other Veloster Turbo models have been removed.
Push-button start, heated leather seats and auto-up on the driver’s window are all sidelined in the stripped-out model.
The upside is that the Veloster Turbo R-spec gets specially tuned steering and suspension,with higher spring rates and a more rigid transmission mount promising greater road feel and sharper response, .
The R-spec is only available with a six-speed manual transmission and a short-throw B&M Racing gearlever claiming to provide a tighter, more precise shifting feel.
The Veloster Turbo R-spec will be available in four colours: Elite White, Ultra Black, Marathon Blue and, exclusively for the 2014 model year, Sprint Grey.
In the US, the Hyundai Veloster Turbo R-spec will be available from February 2014 priced from US$22,110, shaving US$1000 off the price of the standard Veloster Turbo.
Hyundai Australia PR boss Bill Thomas told CarAdvice there are currently no plans for an R-spec version of the Veloster Turbo, but revealed the company is currently looking at adding accessory packs for customers to further personalise their Velosters.
