For those who might be curious and live in the LA area...

Hyundai Veloster Weekend Ride & Drive - AutoWeek

 

I just test drove one of these last week. Not too bad really. 2600lbs, and 138hp, with a 6 spd manual felt pretty nice. Its not the most practical hatchback. The back is really small, there are seats, but no one could actually sit back there lol. Also, the rear window is terrible. Anyone thinking of one better know how to use their mirrors :). All in all, I think they produced a car that hit their target audience pretty well though.

 

How about the Kia Rio 5 ?
138hp, 30 city- 40 hwy MPG !!!
10yr/100k mile warranty
Not bad at all, i am tempted by the mpg's

 

I recently was driving beside a Veloster and thought it looked real nice. Since it is lacking in practicality it must be a decent, comfortable car to drive or have something more than a striking appearance going for it.

 

Don't buy into Hyundai's claimed MPG hype. Real world shows them getting nowhere near their published numbers. Though you could probably drive it like you crammed Miss Daisy into the small back seats and putter around and achieve the 40 on the highway all while other drivers and bicyclers are passing you by.