Hyundai is raising its price tag for the power-packed Veloster N for the 2020 model year. According to the manufacturer's order guide, the car will see a $500 price increase to $28,320 after including a $920 destination charge. That's up from the current MSRP of $27,820 with no major changes in equipment.
In contrast, pricing for the entry-level Veloster Base will go up just $100 to $19,520, while the Veloster Premium sees a $50 nudge up to $23,720. All trims gain cargo area tie-down hooks for 2020, but the most noteworthy change will be in the middle of the range with the turbocharged R-Spec trim.
The Turbo R-Spec is only available with a 6-speed manual transmission and, somewhat confusingly, remains positioned below the Veloster Turbo (which comes with a dual-clutch automatic). For 2020, the R-Spec gains blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert as standard equipment. Pricing will rise $250 to $24,070.
Next up, the Veloster Turbo sees a $50 increase to $26,370 but gains a wireless charging pad for the new model year. The last major change is at the top of the range and will primarily affect drivers who prefer the feel of a stick shifter.
While the Veloster Ultimate will remain the most-expensive trim, it will no longer be offered with a 6-speed manual. For 2020, the only choice for that trim will be the dual-clutch automatic. Pricing remains unchanged from the current MSRP of $29,070.
Buyers who want a turbocharged manual but aren't interested in an N will likely have to settle with the R-Spec, which misses out on features like a sunroof, heated seats, automatic climate control, a more advanced emergency braking system with pedestrian detection, and leather seats.
Last week, Honda raised pricing for the Civic Type R to $37,230. While the Civic is larger and more powerful, it's also $8,910 more expensive than the 2020 Veloster N. Even with the optional $2,100 Performance Package and an MSRP just over $30,000, some may find the N to be a compelling alternative.