Hyundai Veloster RE:FLEX - is Less More?

The 2014 Hyundai Veloster RE:FLEX Edition, the newest member of the Veloster lineup, is available now in Hyundai dealerships. But is it special enough to justify the added expense and slight decontent? Veloster sales are limp so Hyundai needs a winner.

According to Hyundai, the Veloster RE:FLEX Edition delivers a combination of unique features, exclusive Ice Pearl color availability and a limited production run to appeal to Veloster intenders. The Veloster RE:FLEX DCT has an MSRP of $21,650, excluding $810 freight, and includes all of the Veloster DCT Style Package equipment excluding the panoramic roof. So it appears the color is what makes the difference, as well as the limited availability.

Last year Hyundai sold 30,711 Velosters, which was a drop of 4,151 from 2012. In 2014, through April, Veloster sales are on par with 2013, which means the three-door coupe needs a sales boost from the limited edition model.

RE:FLEX features black or red full leather seating, projector headlights with LED headlight accents, LED taillights, LED illuminated door sills, 18-inch alloy wheels with a PVD chrome finish, chrome hood accents, chrome door handles and RE:FLEX badging on the exterior and floor mats. All RE:FLEX models use the Gamma 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine and six-speed EcoShift® dual-clutch transmission.

“Compact sporty customers are often looking for limited-edition models with even sportier styling,” said Scott Margason, director, product planning, Hyundai Motor America. “The new Veloster RE:FLEX not only delivers, but the highly prized limited editions are equipped with additional unique features and exclusive colors that will make proud owners boldly stand out in the crowd.”

The Veloster RE:FLEX Edition was unveiled at the 2014 Chicago Auto Show, and with only a limited production run of 3,000 units, promises buyers that they will own a unique Veloster model.

Veloster continues to attract Hyundai’s next generation of buyers, earning numerous accolades including the Polk Automotive Loyalty Award, Bloomberg’s “Best Economy Car” and one of the 10 Coolest Cars Under $18,000 of 2014, according to Kelly Blue Book’s KBB.com for the third year in a row. To see the full Hyundai Veloster lineup, visit: www.hyundaiusa.com/veloster.

Keith Griffin has been writing continuously about new cars since 2002. He used to be the guide to used cars at former About.com as well as a contributor to The Boston Globe and Automotive Traveler. He is the founder and president of The Internet Car and Truck of the Year, where "Internet Pros and Average Joes" pick the car and truck of the year. Currently, Keith is the managing editor for American Business Media. Follow Keith at @indepthauto on Twitter.