In some ways, we’re headed for a new hot hatch golden age in the U.S. Not only are we getting a new Honda Civic Type R, but Toyota’s bringing out the GR Corolla. Plus, the GTI and Golf R are still going strong. However, not all of today’s hot hatches will survive into this new era. According to a new report, the Hyundai Veloster N is about to say good night.

The N is nigh for the Hyundai Veloster N, says a new South Korean report

Last year, Hyundai announced that it was killing off all Veloster models in the U.S. bar one, the Veloster N. Although it was sad to see most of this funky three-door hatchback family go, the N is arguably the best version. However, a new report from South Korea claims that even the spiciest Veloster’s time is almost up.

According to Korean publication Hankyung, the Veloster will soon be discontinued worldwide, The Drive says. After 11 years Hyundai is pulling the plug on all Veloster production, including the N, in July 2022. And once the last 2022 models leave the dealership, that’s it.

It’s worth noting that Hyundai hasn’t officially commented on this report. Furthermore, Hankyung hasn’t named its “industry sources.” But there are several reasons why it’s likely true.

Why is Hyundai discontinuing the Veloster N?

Firstly, even before the N was the only version left, the Hyundai Veloster wasn’t selling well. In 2021 Hyundai only sold 1,253 Velosters, making it the worst-selling nameplate behind the hydrogen-powered Nexo SUV. On the plus side, 2022 is looking slightly better, with 932 Veloster Ns sold through May of this year. However, that still leaves it as the second worst-selling Hyundai in the U.S.

The reason why Veloster N sales are poor is tied to another reason why Hyundai might be killing the hatchback off entirely. When it discontinued the other Veloster models here last year, Hyundai noted that small SUVs/crossovers were eating into its sales. Case in point, the Kona is selling almost 30 times better this year so far.

Speaking of the Kona, it’s now available in N form, too. So is the Hyundai Elantra, which uses the Veloster N’s powertrain but adds some WRC-inspired elements. However, these N cars are smoother and comfier than the Veloster, The Drive reports. As such, the hatchback is basically redundant from a performance perspective.

In addition, because Hyundai builds the Veloster on a Kona production line, it’s losing out on profitable small SUV/crossover sales. Plus, even if Kona and Elantra N sales are only a fraction of these models’ total sales, that still makes them more popular than the Veloster. Basically, there’s no financial incentive for Hyundai to keep its hot hatch around.

N-joy this riot of a hot hatch while it lasts

Although we still need to hear official confirmation from Hyundai, it sure sounds like the Veloster N is headed out. But until the order books close, hot hatch fans can still pick one up. And if they do, they’ll find themselves with a hilariously fun machine.

Yes, the $32,500 2022 Hyundai Veloster N isn’t quite as refined as the 2022 Civic Si or 2022 GTI. However, whether you spring for the DCT model or stick with the stick, this 275-hp pocket rocket will leave you smiling. It’s loud, yes, but it’s also sharp in the corners thanks to precise steering and loads of grip. So much grip, The Drive says, that it almost feels like an AWD hot hatch rather than a FWD one. And remember, this was Road & Track’s 2020 Performance Car of the Year.

Even if this is the N (I’m sorry) of the wildest Hyundai Veloster, at least it’s going out with a grin.

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