Facelifted Hyundai Veloster to get new 7-speed DCT, Flex Steer

Wed, 29 Oct 2014

No matter how you look at it, the Hyundai Veloster is an odd duck. With the vehicle's weird door configuration and styling that kind of looks like a modernized Honda CRX, the model is certainly unlike anything else on the road today. Since spotting one testing earlier this year (pictured above), we know that a refreshed version is on the way eventually, but that car keeps a lot of its secrets hidden under camouflage. New rumors from The Korean Car Blog suggest that the Veloster might receive a few mechanical changes to go along with the updated skin.

Among the biggest rumored tweaks is that the turbocharged model is receiving a seven-speed, dual-clutch gearbox as a replacement for its current, conventional six-speed auto. Another potential change for the naturally aspirated version is Hyundai's Flex Steer system that offers selectable weighting for the electric power steering.

Styling obviously isn't being left alone for the update. The mule testing earlier this year appears to show a new grille and altered bumpers underneath its concealment. The latest rumors suggest that's exactly the case with the possibility of a front end closer in design to the current Genesis, along with HID headlights and a modified hood design to remove the faux heat extractors.

Inside, noise levels are rumored to be lower, and buyers might benefit from improved trim, an updated infotainment system and possibly new seats for the Turbo.

Autoblog spoke to Hyundai spokesperson Jim Trainor about the changes for the facelift, and he simply told us, "We don't comment on future products."

It shouldn't be too long before the validity of all of this is proven, though. The refreshed Veloster is rumored to debut at an auto show in the US early next year, perhaps in Detroit or Chicago. Hopefully, Hyundai doesn't do anything to take away the model's bizarre spirit.

By Chris Bruce