BEST CAR REVIEW

The interior of the All-New BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe presents a stylish fusion of sporty allure and exclusivity. The stylish and functional elegance of the interior is highlighted by prominent round instruments with a black panel look and the free-standing flat-screen iDrive monitor. The cockpit and rear passenger compartment are visually joined by trim strips originating in the instrument panel and extending along the upper sections of the door panels into the rear. The backrest can be folded in 40:20:40 configurations to create more luggage and stowage space as required. When the seat is completely folded down, the maximum volume capacity is 1,300 litres. If only the centre segment is utilized, four people can ride comfortably while transporting long and bulky items. When not folded down, this middle section provides space for two cup holders. An optional feature is the Smart Opener, which automatically opens the boot lid via gesture control - namely a foot movement underneath the rear bumper.

This powertrain also has an Active ECO mode which modifies engine and transmission control for improved fuel economy. The EcoShift DCT also incorporates Hyundai鈥檚 Hillstart Assist Control (HAC). HAC is designed to minimize rolling backwards on steep ascents. Veloster Turbo is paired with a standard six-speed manual transmission or a new for 2016 seven-speed dual clutch (DCT) automatic transmission. Both transmissions were developed in-house by Hyundai. The new Veloster Turbo seven-speed automatic transmission features steering wheel-mounted paddle-shifters and SHIFTRONIC transmission gear control, and is more performance-tuned in comparison with the non-turbo model鈥檚 DCT. This transmission was specifically engineered to handle the increased torque output from the turbocharged engine. The non-turbo Veloster鈥檚 EcoShift DCT was tuned especially for fuel efficiency rather than the higher torque and performance calibration of the Veloster Turbo seven-speed DCT. The heart of the Turbo R-Spec is the responsive, 1.6-liter, direct-injected, turbocharged engine, along with unique design cues and enhanced chassis tuning. Sport suspension and steering settings have been retuned for optimum responsiveness, with higher spring rates and a more rigid transmission mount. The Turbo R-Spec offers a 6-speed manual transmission with short-throw B&M Racing Sport Shifter for a tighter, more direct shift feel.

New for 2016, the seat belts for the Turbo R-Spec are now red, reflecting the model鈥檚 performance intent. Inside, red leatherette bolsters with red/black cloth insert sport seats complement special embroidered-logo R-Spec floor mats for a sporty ambience. On the exterior, R-Spec badging adorns the rear hatch. Veloster Turbo R-Spec is available in three exterior colors: Elite White, Ultra Black and Pacific Blue. The 1.6-liter turbocharged, direct-injected four-cylinder engine produces 201 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 195 lb.-ft. 1,750 rpm. Veloster Turbo models feature Active Sound Design, which enhances intake and exhaust powertrain sound character inside the cabin for an even more involving driving experience. Turbo models generate 201 horsepower on regular fuel, which represents a best-in-class specific output of 125.6 horsepower per liter. All Veloster Turbo models offer Torque Vectoring Control (TVC). This active cornering feature, utilizing capabilities from the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and powertrain control systems, allows Veloster Turbo to improve dynamic cornering during more enthusiastic driving. TVC uses wheel speed sensors coupled with ESC algorithms to apply precise braking force to the inside front wheel during spirited cornering.

This active braking redirects power to the outside front wheel in the turn, reducing wheelspin for enhanced cornering grip and corner-exit acceleration. Overall, this provides Veloster Turbo drivers with an incremental margin of cornering precision during enthusiastic driving. Veloster Turbo also features a quicker-ratio steering rack and a revised steering calibration to match, which gives drivers precise cornering, feedback and control. For 2016, the 18-inch alloy wheel tire width has been increased by 10mm, fitted with Kumho Solus 225/40R18 tires, designed to extract maximum performance without compromising ride. Through the application of these advanced engine technologies and weight-saving measures, Veloster Turbo and non-turbo offer solid performance from 1.6-liters of displacement, and superb fuel economy as well. Veloster鈥檚 compelling combination of performance with efficiency is a formula many industry competitors are seeking to duplicate. Veloster and Veloster Turbo are fitted with a McPherson strut front suspension, coil springs, gas shock absorbers and a 23-mm diameter front stabilizer bar.