Hyundai's Veloster Coupe intrigues Delhi - IAB checks it out

We showed you the first clicks of the Hyundai Veloster from one of the dealerships last week posted on our Facebook wall by a fan. Many of you had written in asking about the car's price, engines and launch date.

Though we can't confirm anything for now, we're able to bring you some more photographs of this eye candy. Although HMIL has not divulged plans to launch this car, it is displaying the car at its dealerships and collating thoughts and feedback of its customers.

Hyundai had brought the model to the Auto Expo and in the media circles, the discussions were how Hyundai, in an expansionist mood, could offer India's first budget sports coupe through the Veloster.

The car indeed looks very sporty, compact and unique. It’s got three doors (rear door on one side) with the rear door handle positioned identically to that of the Chevrolet Beat.

The coupe's roofline runs very low, still there’s enough space for four adults to sit inside comfortably. The low profile tyres and large wheels add visual delight to the low-slung look of the cars. There are plenty of sharp and sporty features on the car's skin.

Inside, the dashboard and the speedo layout is not like any of Hyundai's we have seen but the i20's cool blue illumination has been carried forward. The quality is a notch higher than other Hyundai products on offer in India. There are bucket seats in front and individual seats assembled together at the back with decent levels of leg and head room. The panoramic sunroof adds some drama to the cabin's atmosphere.

Under the nicely executed exterior is a four pot 1.6 liter petrol engine that churns out 140 bhp and 167 Nm of torque mated to a 6-speed manual transmission.

Surprisingly, the car is a right hand drive version. So why would HMIL put something on display at their dealership if they don’t intend to sell it here? We think Hyundai should drop the Veloster coupe in our market and watch the brand equity rise to a new level.

Hyundai Veloster in Delhi - Image Slideshow

Can't see the slideshow above? Head over to the Flickr Image Gallery for direct viewing.