The Hyundai Veloster has announced that it has been named one of the ‘10 coolest new cars under $18,000’ by leading US automotive valuation company, Kelly Blue Book.

It applauded the Veloster for its unique three-door styling and innovative technology, which has also contributed to the new model being shortlisted in its category in the prestigious 2012 Middle East Motoring Awards.

The Veloster was launched in the Middle East in August 2011 and is proving popular with young buyers. This year it has been nominated by the influential jury of motoring journalists in the Middle East Motoring Awards for the ‘Best Hatchback’ award, which will be announced at the end of November.

Tom Lee, head of Hyundai’s Middle East regional headquarters, said: “The Veloster being named one of the coolest cars proves what Hyundai has set out to do, to make a vehicle that is unique and boasts individuality, with its charismatic, fluidic sculpture and 2+1 doors that has never been seen before.”

“It is a car that is aimed at the next generation of drivers who want to standout of the crowd and be seen.”

“Hyundai has entered a new market segment with the Veloster, targeting the youth market by bringing together the functionality of a hatchback with the sporty feel of a coupe,” Lee said.

Featuring a wealth of standard kit that includes an engine stop/start button, cruise control, fully automatic air conditioning and an advanced multimedia system with a seven-inch colour touch-screen display and MP3 compatibility/iPod connectivity, the Veloster is ideal for urban living, he added.

The Veloster has one door on the driver’s side, and two on the passenger’s side, helping aerodynamics and safety.

To maximize fuel economy, reduce emissions and enhance refinement, every Veloster is fitted with a six-speed automatic transmission. – TradeArabia News Service