Veloster 1.6 GDI Turbo (A) vs Astra GTC 1.6 (A) vs Scirocco 1.4 (A)
17 Jan 2014|40,948 views
We weren't exaggerating when we coined this comparison a coup. While the local climate is filled with intensifying competition between car brands, there has also been a struggle between the different genres.
Arguably, coupes will always garner more attention over other car types and remain as the symbol of youth and driving enjoyment. They are like grated cheese on your pasta - lacking in volume, but most certainly not flavour.
We like the GTC for its clean, artful strokes, and the pair of mesmerising 'eyes'
Exterior
Often deemed as 'sex symbols' in the motoring world, coupes are designed with more visually arresting appearances to stop you in your path and stare.
The GTC, being the 'youngest' of the group, certainly has no trouble pulling off its own charm. The silky lines give a very pleasant first impression. And with time, you will start to notice the delibrate curves, which will help you appreciate the styling even more.
In comparison, the Veloster has a louder body language. It will craftily steal glances even when lying among a crowd of cars. However, we reckon the styling is a love or hate affair.
Arguably, coupes will always garner more attention over other car types and remain as the symbol of youth and driving enjoyment. They are like grated cheese on your pasta - lacking in volume, but most certainly not flavour.
Exterior
Often deemed as 'sex symbols' in the motoring world, coupes are designed with more visually arresting appearances to stop you in your path and stare.
The GTC, being the 'youngest' of the group, certainly has no trouble pulling off its own charm. The silky lines give a very pleasant first impression. And with time, you will start to notice the delibrate curves, which will help you appreciate the styling even more.
In comparison, the Veloster has a louder body language. It will craftily steal glances even when lying among a crowd of cars. However, we reckon the styling is a love or hate affair.
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The entrenched tail lamps and protruding fog lamps, for instance, look the most quirky of the lot and can be an acquired taste. Still, we must give credit to its ingenious asymmetrical design - a clever blend of style and practicality.
The Scirocco, on the other hand, is the 'big' brother of the group. Launched more than five years ago, it is the most dated. 'Seniority' aside, the cutesy Volkswagen is one of the locals' favourites and is a familiar face on our roads. Its snub proportions are almost evergreen, and is able to hold its own even among the newer cars.
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Interior
The Koreans have played catch-up in the past few decades, and the Veloster is proof that they are almost there. It has the most stylish-looking console. Usability is also a notch up with user-friendly interface and buttons that are easy to understand. The only shortcoming, perhaps, lies in its choice of materials.
The Veloster deserves mention for its stylish centre console
The GTC's cabin feels better built. However, the sheer number of buttons on its infotainment system can be confusing, which makes it quite a challenge to operate on the move.
Otherwise, we think the GTC is one of the best places to be in. You will be delighted by the excellent view up front, thanks to the novelty panoramic roof which extends straight up from the windscreen. The instrument console also looks the most sophisticated in this group, providing an additional 'eye candy' for the driver.
The Scirocco's interior, too, has a feel good quotient. It is a notable achievement, considering that the car was borned half a decade ago.
The Koreans have played catch-up in the past few decades, and the Veloster is proof that they are almost there. It has the most stylish-looking console. Usability is also a notch up with user-friendly interface and buttons that are easy to understand. The only shortcoming, perhaps, lies in its choice of materials.
The GTC's cabin feels better built. However, the sheer number of buttons on its infotainment system can be confusing, which makes it quite a challenge to operate on the move.
Otherwise, we think the GTC is one of the best places to be in. You will be delighted by the excellent view up front, thanks to the novelty panoramic roof which extends straight up from the windscreen. The instrument console also looks the most sophisticated in this group, providing an additional 'eye candy' for the driver.
The Scirocco's interior, too, has a feel good quotient. It is a notable achievement, considering that the car was borned half a decade ago.
Up front, the flat-bottomed steering wheel gives you the notion that you are in a fast car even before you crank up the engine (via the start button in this case). The controls are also ergonomically positioned, making you feel at home.
Contrary to the common belief that coupes are 'selfish' cars that only have enough space for two, all three cars here are capable of carrying more.
The GTC's rear bench is the most confortable among the trio, and proves that coupes can still be practical for everyday commute
In the Veloster and Scirocco, two more can sit comfortably at the back. No doubt an ingenious idea, the Veloster offers a third door for rear passengers to better access the cabin.
In terms of cabin space and utility, however, the GTC beats the others hands down with a sofa-like rear bench that can fit a third person with a slight squeeze.
Contrary to the common belief that coupes are 'selfish' cars that only have enough space for two, all three cars here are capable of carrying more.
In the Veloster and Scirocco, two more can sit comfortably at the back. No doubt an ingenious idea, the Veloster offers a third door for rear passengers to better access the cabin.
In terms of cabin space and utility, however, the GTC beats the others hands down with a sofa-like rear bench that can fit a third person with a slight squeeze.
 |
The Drive
Besides charming aesthetics, the trio we have gathered here also feature force fed engines for better and more efficient performance. And you can almost tell that they are capable handlers from their low slung bodies and flared wheel arches.
Hyundai's 1.6-litre unit (left) wins the power race with 186 horses; Opel's 1.6-litre (centre) second with 170bhp; Volkswagen's 1.4-litre (right) musters a healthy 160bhp
The Scirocco has the lowest cylindrical volume of 1.4-litre. On paper it seems to be at a slight disadvantage, gathering only 160 horses and 240Nm of torque. The reality, however, paints a different picture. In fact, the Scirocco feels the liveliest, thanks to the decisive and fast-shifting DSG gearbox.
Seated the lowest of the trio and coupled with a well-weighted steering, the Scirocco also bestows a more dynamic and rewarding driving experience.
In turbo guise, the Veloster has no trouble triumphing others in the horsepower race. The 1.6-litre churns out 186bhp and 265Nm of torque. It clocks 8.1 seconds for the 0-100km/h timing, a split second slower than the Scirocco.
The engine's potency, however, feels restricted by the less urgent six-speed gearbox. Moreover, the additional power comes with a hint of lag.
Besides charming aesthetics, the trio we have gathered here also feature force fed engines for better and more efficient performance. And you can almost tell that they are capable handlers from their low slung bodies and flared wheel arches.
The Scirocco has the lowest cylindrical volume of 1.4-litre. On paper it seems to be at a slight disadvantage, gathering only 160 horses and 240Nm of torque. The reality, however, paints a different picture. In fact, the Scirocco feels the liveliest, thanks to the decisive and fast-shifting DSG gearbox.
Seated the lowest of the trio and coupled with a well-weighted steering, the Scirocco also bestows a more dynamic and rewarding driving experience.
In turbo guise, the Veloster has no trouble triumphing others in the horsepower race. The 1.6-litre churns out 186bhp and 265Nm of torque. It clocks 8.1 seconds for the 0-100km/h timing, a split second slower than the Scirocco.
The engine's potency, however, feels restricted by the less urgent six-speed gearbox. Moreover, the additional power comes with a hint of lag.
The GTC, too, gets a healthy power boost in this latest 1.6-litre variant. While it's naturally faster than the 1.4-litre variant, it is still a good second slower compared to the other two cars, clocking only 9.2 seconds for the century sprint.
Still, the GTC does not feel like it's lacking, striking a good balance between brisk, punchy and comfort.
None of the other two gearboxes are able to match up to the intuitiveness of Volkswagen's dual-clutch DSG (above)
Conclusion
The Veloster has edged up the competition with this latest Turbo variant. At $140,888, it is close to $15k cheaper than either of the rest, and still represents the bang-for-buck preposition that the brand is best known for.
When it comes to driving dynamics, we must applaud the Scirocco for its concise steering and capable drivetrain, which makes it the most rewarding to pilot.
Turning to the GTC, it took us a while to realise its hidden charms. The drive may not set an immediate good impression, but it strums your heart strings with its sophistication and level of refinement.
And as the competent all rounder, the GTC deserves our vote.
Still, the GTC does not feel like it's lacking, striking a good balance between brisk, punchy and comfort.
Conclusion
The Veloster has edged up the competition with this latest Turbo variant. At $140,888, it is close to $15k cheaper than either of the rest, and still represents the bang-for-buck preposition that the brand is best known for.
When it comes to driving dynamics, we must applaud the Scirocco for its concise steering and capable drivetrain, which makes it the most rewarding to pilot.
Turning to the GTC, it took us a while to realise its hidden charms. The drive may not set an immediate good impression, but it strums your heart strings with its sophistication and level of refinement.
And as the competent all rounder, the GTC deserves our vote.
We weren't exaggerating when we coined this comparison a coup. While the local climate is filled with intensifying competition between car brands, there has also been a struggle between the different genres.
Arguably, coupes will always garner more attention over other car types and remain as the symbol of youth and driving enjoyment. They are like grated cheese on your pasta - lacking in volume, but most certainly not flavour.
Exterior
Often deemed as 'sex symbols' in the motoring world, coupes are designed with more visually arresting appearances to stop you in your path and stare.
The GTC, being the 'youngest' of the group, certainly has no trouble pulling off its own charm. The silky lines give a very pleasant first impression. And with time, you will start to notice the delibrate curves, which will help you appreciate the styling even more.
In comparison, the Veloster has a louder body language. It will craftily steal glances even when lying among a crowd of cars. However, we reckon the styling is a love or hate affair.
Arguably, coupes will always garner more attention over other car types and remain as the symbol of youth and driving enjoyment. They are like grated cheese on your pasta - lacking in volume, but most certainly not flavour.
Exterior
Often deemed as 'sex symbols' in the motoring world, coupes are designed with more visually arresting appearances to stop you in your path and stare.
The GTC, being the 'youngest' of the group, certainly has no trouble pulling off its own charm. The silky lines give a very pleasant first impression. And with time, you will start to notice the delibrate curves, which will help you appreciate the styling even more.
In comparison, the Veloster has a louder body language. It will craftily steal glances even when lying among a crowd of cars. However, we reckon the styling is a love or hate affair.
The entrenched tail lamps and protruding fog lamps, for instance, look the most quirky of the lot and can be an acquired taste. Still, we must give credit to its ingenious asymmetrical design - a clever blend of style and practicality.
The Scirocco, on the other hand, is the 'big' brother of the group. Launched more than five years ago, it is the most dated. 'Seniority' aside, the cutesy Volkswagen is one of the locals' favourites and is a familiar face on our roads. Its snub proportions are almost evergreen, and is able to hold its own even among the newer cars.
The Scirocco, on the other hand, is the 'big' brother of the group. Launched more than five years ago, it is the most dated. 'Seniority' aside, the cutesy Volkswagen is one of the locals' favourites and is a familiar face on our roads. Its snub proportions are almost evergreen, and is able to hold its own even among the newer cars.
Interior
The Koreans have played catch-up in the past few decades, and the Veloster is proof that they are almost there. It has the most stylish-looking console. Usability is also a notch up with user-friendly interface and buttons that are easy to understand. The only shortcoming, perhaps, lies in its choice of materials.
The GTC's cabin feels better built. However, the sheer number of buttons on its infotainment system can be confusing, which makes it quite a challenge to operate on the move.
Otherwise, we think the GTC is one of the best places to be in. You will be delighted by the excellent view up front, thanks to the novelty panoramic roof which extends straight up from the windscreen. The instrument console also looks the most sophisticated in this group, providing an additional 'eye candy' for the driver.
The Scirocco's interior, too, has a feel good quotient. It is a notable achievement, considering that the car was borned half a decade ago.
The Koreans have played catch-up in the past few decades, and the Veloster is proof that they are almost there. It has the most stylish-looking console. Usability is also a notch up with user-friendly interface and buttons that are easy to understand. The only shortcoming, perhaps, lies in its choice of materials.
The GTC's cabin feels better built. However, the sheer number of buttons on its infotainment system can be confusing, which makes it quite a challenge to operate on the move.
Otherwise, we think the GTC is one of the best places to be in. You will be delighted by the excellent view up front, thanks to the novelty panoramic roof which extends straight up from the windscreen. The instrument console also looks the most sophisticated in this group, providing an additional 'eye candy' for the driver.
The Scirocco's interior, too, has a feel good quotient. It is a notable achievement, considering that the car was borned half a decade ago.
Up front, the flat-bottomed steering wheel gives you the notion that you are in a fast car even before you crank up the engine (via the start button in this case). The controls are also ergonomically positioned, making you feel at home.
Contrary to the common belief that coupes are 'selfish' cars that only have enough space for two, all three cars here are capable of carrying more.
In the Veloster and Scirocco, two more can sit comfortably at the back. No doubt an ingenious idea, the Veloster offers a third door for rear passengers to better access the cabin.
In terms of cabin space and utility, however, the GTC beats the others hands down with a sofa-like rear bench that can fit a third person with a slight squeeze.
Contrary to the common belief that coupes are 'selfish' cars that only have enough space for two, all three cars here are capable of carrying more.
In the Veloster and Scirocco, two more can sit comfortably at the back. No doubt an ingenious idea, the Veloster offers a third door for rear passengers to better access the cabin.
In terms of cabin space and utility, however, the GTC beats the others hands down with a sofa-like rear bench that can fit a third person with a slight squeeze.
The Drive
Besides charming aesthetics, the trio we have gathered here also feature force fed engines for better and more efficient performance. And you can almost tell that they are capable handlers from their low slung bodies and flared wheel arches.
The Scirocco has the lowest cylindrical volume of 1.4-litre. On paper it seems to be at a slight disadvantage, gathering only 160 horses and 240Nm of torque. The reality, however, paints a different picture. In fact, the Scirocco feels the liveliest, thanks to the decisive and fast-shifting DSG gearbox.
Seated the lowest of the trio and coupled with a well-weighted steering, the Scirocco also bestows a more dynamic and rewarding driving experience.
In turbo guise, the Veloster has no trouble triumphing others in the horsepower race. The 1.6-litre churns out 186bhp and 265Nm of torque. It clocks 8.1 seconds for the 0-100km/h timing, a split second slower than the Scirocco.
The engine's potency, however, feels restricted by the less urgent six-speed gearbox. Moreover, the additional power comes with a hint of lag.
The GTC, too, gets a healthy power boost in this latest 1.6-litre variant. While it's naturally faster than the 1.4-litre variant, it is still a good second slower compared to the other two cars, clocking only 9.2 seconds for the century sprint.
Still, the GTC does not feel like it's lacking, striking a good balance between brisk, punchy and comfort.
Conclusion
The Veloster has edged up the competition with this latest Turbo variant. At $140,888, it is close to $15k cheaper than either of the rest, and still represents the bang-for-buck preposition that the brand is best known for.
When it comes to driving dynamics, we must applaud the Scirocco for its concise steering and capable drivetrain, which makes it the most rewarding to pilot.
Turning to the GTC, it took us a while to realise its hidden charms. The drive may not set an immediate good impression, but it strums your heart strings with its sophistication and level of refinement.
And as the competent all rounder, the GTC deserves our vote.
Still, the GTC does not feel like it's lacking, striking a good balance between brisk, punchy and comfort.
Conclusion
The Veloster has edged up the competition with this latest Turbo variant. At $140,888, it is close to $15k cheaper than either of the rest, and still represents the bang-for-buck preposition that the brand is best known for.
When it comes to driving dynamics, we must applaud the Scirocco for its concise steering and capable drivetrain, which makes it the most rewarding to pilot.
Turning to the GTC, it took us a while to realise its hidden charms. The drive may not set an immediate good impression, but it strums your heart strings with its sophistication and level of refinement.
And as the competent all rounder, the GTC deserves our vote.
Photos by Julian Kho
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Car Information
Volkswagen Scirocco 1.4 TSI DSG (A)
CAT B|Petrol|15.4km/L
Horsepower
119kW (160 bhp)
Torque
240 Nm
Acceleration
8sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Volkswagen SciroccoHyundai Veloster 1.6 GDI Turbo (A)
CAT B|Petrol|13km/L
Horsepower
137kW (184 bhp)
Torque
265 Nm
Acceleration
8.1sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Hyundai VelosterOpel Astra GTC 1.6 Turbo (A)
CAT A|Petrol|14.9km/L
Horsepower
127kW (170 bhp)
Torque
280 Nm
Acceleration
9.2sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Opel Astra GTC
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