There are a few reasons Motor Trend included the 2021 Hyundai Veloster in its list of ‘The Best Hatchbacks You Can Buy In 2020.’ Though it might be an unusual looking car, it handles well, is fun to drive, and comes stocked with features. Of course, that’s not all Motor Trend had to say about this year’s new Hyundai Veloster.

Your choice of engine under the hood

As Motor Trend put it, when it comes to the 2021 Hyundai Veloster, what’s under the hood ranges from “mild to wild.” Though it comes standard with a 147-hp naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, this year’s model can also be had with a thrilling 275-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter engine when you opt for the performance-oriented Veloster N.

The 2021 Hyundai Veloster is more than a fast-paced hatchback, though. According to Motor Trend, the biggest highlight of this year’s model is how well it handles. Between its “excellent body control and well-tuned suspension,” the 2021 Hyundai Veloster provides “plenty of fun through the corners without beating you up.”

The only performance-related gripe Motor Trend had with this year’s model? Excessive road noise that “can get tiring at highway speeds.”

Sleek styling paired with an unorthodox layout

The 2021 Hyundai Veloster is a quirky looking car. Unlike other compact hatchbacks on the market, this hatchback has not four, but three doors. According to Hyundai, however, it’s its “visual swagger that sets Veloster apart from anything else on the road.”

Whether or not that’s true remains to be seen. There’s no denying, though, that the 2021 Hyundai Veloster is bound to draw the eye. From its coupe-like body to its rear spoiler and diffuser, this hatchback was made to look good.

Naturally, looks aren’t everything. Being that the Hyundai Veloster is a hatchback with three, not four doors, you may be asking yourself how this vehicle’s unorthodox layout impacts things like cargo space. Fortunately, this year’s model isn’t all that affected by its unusual setup.

Per Motor Trend, this year’s Hyundai Veloster provides 20 cubic-feet of cargo space. For even more space, fold down the 60/40-split folding rear seats and enjoy up to 45 cubic-feet of cargo space.

Standout interior features

Maybe what’s under the hood doesn’t quite matter to you. If that’s the case, then consider the 2021 Hyundai Veloster’s many standout features. For a true automotive treat, Motor Trend recommends choosing the Veloster Turbo R-Spec.

Priced around $25,000, the Veloster Turbo R-Spec doesn’t make any compromises when it comes to quality interior amenities. Outfitted with supportive sport seats in two-tone black and gray with yellow contrast stitching, the Turbo R-Spec also features an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, an Infinity premium audio system, and Proximity Key entry with push-button start.

The 2021 Hyundai Veloster vs. its competition

The 2021 Hyundai Veloster does have several competitors. If you’re not sold on a three-door hatchback, Motor Trend suggests looking at the Hyundai Elantra GT. Its other rivals include the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and the Mazda3.

Price-wise, this year’s Hyundai Veloster undercuts the competition with an $18,900 price tag. Even when opting for one of the Veloster’s performance models, the Hyundai Veloster continues to offer a better value proposition than its rivals.

This year’s new model also gets Hyundai Complimentary Maintenance for 3-years or 36,000-miles, whichever comes first. The only competitor to come with such a perk at this time is the Toyota Corolla. ⁠

Is the 2021 Hyundai Veloster as good as Motor Trend says it is?

The 2021 Hyundai Veloster is a fun car. From its unusual exterior styling to its surprisingly spacious and amenity-laden interior, the 2021 Hyundai Veloster really is as good as Motor Trend says it is. Whether you’re looking to make the most of your new car purchase with a competitively priced hatchback, or are ready to take the wheel of a car that’s simply fun to drive, you can’t go wrong with the 2021 Hyundai Veloster.