The Hyundai Veloster N TCR brought Hyundai’s growing global touring car program to iRacing in the 2019 Season 2 build. As the brand’s first TCR entry in the sim, it introduced drivers to a sharper, more aggressive flavor of front-wheel-drive touring car racing. Known for its strong rotation and lively character, the Veloster N TCR offers an exciting but less forgiving experience compared to its Elantra sibling.
Specs and Technical Details
The Veloster N TCR is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine producing approximately 340 horsepower, paired with a 6-speed sequential gearbox driving the front wheels. Weighing around 2,800 pounds, it fits squarely within FIA TCR specifications.
Aerodynamically, the Veloster N TCR is equipped with an aggressive package that includes a wide body kit, large front splitter, side skirts, and a high-mounted rear wing. These enhancements provide solid downforce while keeping drag levels reasonable, supporting the car’s agile, momentum-based driving style.
Handling Characteristics
The Hyundai Veloster N TCR is defined by its sharp turn-in and strong rotation under trail braking. This makes it a weapon in the hands of aggressive drivers who thrive on attacking corners. Unlike the more stable and forgiving Elantra CN7 TCR, the Veloster requires precision—its lively rear end means it is more prone to lift-off oversteer if the driver is abrupt with inputs.
- Corner Entry: The Veloster excels when you trail brake, using weight transfer to rotate the car. This rotation helps combat the natural understeer of FWD layouts, but push too far and it can snap loose.
- Mid-Corner: The car feels balanced, but it demands smooth steering to keep the front tires from scrubbing speed.
- Corner Exit: Wheelspin is a constant concern. Careful throttle modulation is necessary to avoid spinning the inside front tire, especially when exiting slower corners.
The car rewards aggression and commitment but punishes overdriving more harshly than the Elantra or Civic TCR.
Difficulty Level
The Veloster N TCR sits at an intermediate difficulty level. While approachable, it is less forgiving than other TCR cars in iRacing, particularly when pushed to the limit. Its tendency toward lift-off oversteer and reliance on trail braking make it an excellent car for drivers who enjoy a lively, reactive platform.
For beginners, the Veloster can feel twitchy compared to the Elantra. However, for experienced drivers, it offers the opportunity to unlock extra lap time by leaning into its aggressive handling traits.
Real-World Tie-In
In real motorsport, the Hyundai Veloster N TCR has competed in FIA TCR championships worldwide, including the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge in North America. Campaigned by Hyundai’s factory-supported teams and privateers alike, it has proven itself as a front-running car capable of winning races and championships. Its inclusion in iRacing gave sim racers the chance to experience the same machinery that has battled across some of the world’s most iconic circuits.
Why It’s Popular in iRacing
The Veloster N TCR remains popular in iRacing for several reasons:
- Aggressive handling: Its sharp turn-in and lively rotation make it rewarding for skilled drivers.
- Balanced competition: As part of the TCR roster, it races on equal footing with other models in the class.
- Unique character: Less forgiving than the Elantra, but faster when driven well, it attracts racers who enjoy high-risk, high-reward cars.
- Real-world pedigree: A proven competitor in professional TCR series with Hyundai factory backing.
The Hyundai Veloster N TCR stands out as the more aggressive sibling in Hyundai’s TCR lineup. With sharp turn-in, strong rotation, and a lively rear end, it rewards precision and confidence but punishes overdriving. Intermediate in difficulty, it’s a car best suited to drivers ready to push their skills and embrace the quirks of front-wheel-drive racing at the limit. Whether in iRacing or real-world FIA TCR competition, the Veloster N TCR has established itself as a serious contender and a favorite for those who crave excitement in every corner.
