by Nathan Petroelje / hagerty.com
In an attempt to broaden the appeal of the manual-only Veloster N performance hatchback, Hyundai has announced the addition of an eight-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission for the 2021 model year. The announcement was made late yesterday on the Korean sub-brand’s Instagram page, following two posts hinting that changes were coming for the sublime hot hatch.
In addition to confirming the new wet-clutch gearbox, we noticed something called “Grin Shift” on the center screen of the dashboard. While we’re not sure what that is, we’re wondering about the possibility of an over-boost function, possibly dolling out a temporary jump in horsepower at the push of a button. Not that the 250 horsepower (or 275, if you opt for the performance package) already available in the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder isn’t enough, but we’re never going to say no to more horsepower—even the fleeting kind.Also noteworthy from the announcement video: The front two seats look like they’re going to get light-up N badges, although there’s no word yet on whether or not those features will be standard.
It’s a logical next step for a car that has a very limited audience to begin with. While Hagerty is working hard to preserve the manual transmission and stoke enthusiasm around it, there’s no denying that adding a two-pedal option will broaden the hatch’s buyer base. We’re bullish on the Veloster N as it is; Hyundai snatched Albert Biermann, widely considered the father of BMW’s M brand, to mastermind it. Our first drive confirmed what we’d hoped would be the case: The telepathic chassis and steering tuning that made rides like the E30 BMW M3 so great lived on in this quirky, Korean three-door hatch back—now with extra exhaust pops.
There’s no word yet on pricing for the dual-clutch option. In Hyundai’s Elantra GT N-Line hatchback, opting for the dual-clutch automatic over the standard six-speed manual will set you back an additional $1100. That said, it’s not an apples-to-apples comparison; the DCT previewed on the Veloster N is an eight-speed, likely an all-new unit. But don’t be surprised to find paddle shifters commanding something near a $1500 premium over the clutch pedal. A Hyundai spokesperson confirmed the change but said that no further details were available at this time, so we’ll have to sit tight and wait for now.
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