2012 Hyundai Veloster: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2012 Hyundai Veloster was an all-new model and the first Veloster sold in the U.S. Its defining feature was an unusual hatchback body with one rear access door on the passenger side.
About the 2012 Hyundai Veloster
1st generation Veloster, first year (all-new for 2012).
Hyundai positioned the Veloster as a bold, youth-focused sporty compact for shoppers who wanted something more expressive than a basic small car. Its main draw was the mix of coupe-like styling and hatchback practicality, especially the extra passenger-side rear door that made back-seat access easier without giving up the sleek shape. Compared with rivals like the Mini Cooper, Beetle, and Scion tC, Hyundai emphasized distinctive design, lots of standard tech, and good fuel economy more than outright speed.
Hyundai positioned the 2012 Veloster as a small, playful car that mixed coupe-like styling with hatchback usefulness. Its signature equipment included a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and a split-folding rear seat.
What changed, by category
2012 Hyundai Veloster specs and features by trim
| Feature | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 6-Spd EcoShift DCT |
| Drivetrain | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| MPG City | 27 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 35 mpg |
| Horsepower | 138 hp |
| Torque | 123 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 15.5 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 31.7 in |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Alarm System | |
| Rear View Camera | |
| Alloy Wheels | |
| Fog Lights | |
| Panorama Moon Roof | |
| Rear Spoiler | |
| Navigation System | |
| Premium Audio | |
| Satellite Radio | |
| Touch Screen Monitor | |
| USB Ports | |
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |
| Push-Button Engine Start | |
Frequently asked questions
Was 2012 the first year for the Hyundai Veloster?
Yes. The 2012 model year marked the Veloster’s launch in the U.S. and the beginning of its first generation.
What was unusual about the 2012 Hyundai Veloster’s doors?
The 2012 Veloster had one front door on the driver side and two doors on the passenger side. The smaller passenger-side rear door made the back seat easier to reach while preserving the look of a coupe.
What engine is in the 2012 Hyundai Veloster?
The 2012 Veloster has a 1.6-liter direct-injected four-cylinder gasoline engine.
What technology came standard in the 2012 Hyundai Veloster?
The 2012 Veloster came standard with a 7-inch multimedia touchscreen, Bluetooth hands-free calling with voice recognition, and a six-speaker audio system with USB, iPod, and auxiliary inputs.
Was there a 2011 Hyundai Veloster in the U.S.?
No. The Veloster arrived in the U.S. for the 2012 model year, so there was no 2011 U.S. version for shoppers to compare with it.