While we have recently been blessed with a resurgence of front-engined, rear-wheel drive sports cars, there haven’t been many mid-engined vehicles of late – let alone at an affordable price point. However, as a new concept car from Hyundai shows, the Korean automaker looks to be at least toying with the idea. This is the Veloster Midship Concept, which is being shown at the Busan Motor Show in Korea this week.
The standard Veloster is a 1.6-liter front-engined, front-wheel drive compact, but for this project Hyundai’s High Performance Team engineers have relocated a 2.0-liter Theta GDI four-cylinder turbo engine outputting 295hp behind the driver, and given the car some other modifications along the way.
Judging by the prototype, it looks as cool as it sounds – but don’t go getting your hopes up just yet. According to Hyundai, the concept is all about exploring the potential of the chassis and there are no current plans to actually put a mid-engined Veloster into production.
I suppose time will tell whether Hyundai or another manufacturer can reintroduce midship motoring to the masses. It’s long overdue, wouldn’t you say?
Mike Garrett
Instagram: speedhunters_mike
mike@speedhunters.com
yes!
Build it, and I will buy it.
They are pains to work on but a pleasure to drive!
I know it's a longshot but this would really change the public's perception of Hyundai if it ever made it to production, more than the Genesis ever could
MR2! Bring it back.
2xthefun After owning hondas, nissans, toyotas, lexus and bmw's. This statement is false, they are SO SIMPLE that its crazy.
I've swapped a 2.0 into the place of a 1.6 07 Hyundai Accent Motor and it all lined up PERFECTLY. The parts are relatively cheap, the subframe drops fairly easily for servicing..i dont see how you think they are pains.
They always do this, they create something epic and settle for powerless bland platform. First the 2.0T Accent, now this beauty ~ hopefully it comes out. Tired of having to recreate what Hyundai didnt bring to fruition.
Only concept. Never will it be a production. Don't hold your breath on a Hyundai.
He's talking about midengine cars not Hyundais
HDHooning this guy gets it
Budd19 It reminds me of a Renault Clio
R5 RS200... lets do this!!
Love this concept and sounds like a winner. I'll definitely be watching out for this one.
The Veloster however, the next one should come AWD. It just screams rally!
Hyundai pleas build this car , not only concept...... this car looks amazing
M4: Mid-Engine 4 WHEEL DRIVE!!!
World needs all new toyota MR2! aaaaaaaaaaand honda nsx to production please!
not these korean bullshits
I've always had a secret liking for this platform… so yes please.
3p3hr Korean Bullshits? What is wrong with Hyundai? Pray tell.
Tried to put a deposit down, Hyundai did not accept ...