The Next Hyundai Veloster, Replacing a BMW 328d and Mazda 2 vs Scion xD [Ask Nathan]

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MMUSA Connecticut

In this edition of Ask Nathan:

  • The Next Hyundai Veloster?
  • Replacing my BMW 328d?
  • Used Mazda2 or used Scion xD?

This first question comes from a viewer who is currious about the next Hyundai Veloster.

sema 2012 hyundai veloster

Hi. Any idea what the next Hyundai Veloster will be like?

I was thinking about the turbo, it’s so cool, but I won’t get one if they are building a new one for next year. Do you have any information about it?

Thanks,

Kim

 

A: That’s a good question.

Here’s what I know: they are testing a new Hyundai Veloster right now. From what I hear, (this is from a few sources – but nothing is confirmed) the exterior and interior will be updated, but it will keep the same platform. The engines may remain the same, but the big rumor is a (possible) seven-speed dual-clutch or semi-automatic transmission.

Another rumor states that the manual transmission may be discontinued altogether.

Other rumors include: A new rear independent suspension, upgraded entertainment/navigation system, revised seats,
a new nose and new tail.

We will remain on the lookout for any testing in our backyard.

Best of luck!

N

This next question is from a fan who is looking to replace his 2014 BMW 328d.

Hey everyone at TFL,

I currently lease a 2014 BMW 328d. The lease is coming to an end soon and I’m trying to find that next vehicle to get.

I appreciate that the 328d gets great gas mileage but can’t stand how slow and unresponsive it is. It is the slowest vehicle I have had in awhile and would like something in AWD that’s pretty quick with good gas mileage. I need AWD for those times in NY when I get caught in the snow. I know nothing in that criteria will get close to what the diesel gets but something close enough will do.

My last two previous cars were a 2009 WRX and then a 2012 G37xS. They both had good acceleration but got terrible gas mileage. I believe the best average mileage I got from those 2 was about 22mpg driving easy. I drive approximately 120 miles round trip to and from work. The car gets driven by my wife and I 7 days a week so the car needs to be reliable and get decent gas mileage for a quick car. Stick is out of the question since my wife will not even try to learn. Kinda sucks because driving stick is much more enjoyable. That is my criteria to work with. Hope you can help me with my decision.

Any suggestions would be appreciated and I thank you for your time.

-Rick
2016 buick regal gs awd

A: Hi Rick!

You didn’t give us much to go on, but I think I know of a few vehicles you should look at. Why not look at the Volvo S60? They are fast, have available AWD and can be frugal. The Volvo S60 is a great combo of power, AWD and great gas mileage scores. The forced induction technology is fresh and rewarding and the AWD performance is impressive.

Another vehicle that is truly impressive is the Buick Regal GS. The performance is excellent and overall economy is pretty good. I am in love with the 259 horsepower, 4-cylinder turbo that makes 295 lb-ft of torque. With AWD, it’s a very well balanced, fun to drive car.

Hope that helps!

N

The last question is from a viewer who’s deciding between a used Mazda2 and a Scion xD.

scion_xd_my14_two_tone_6

Q:Yo NateDOGG!

I’m going to buy either my mom’s or step-dad’s car. My mom has a 2012 Mazda2 and my step-dad has a 2014 Scion xD. Both are stick and both are in excellent condition. Which one is more fun? I want the car that is fun to drive.

Thanks man!

Mo

Mazda2 2011 TFL 1

A: Hi Mo!

Both cars are good little runabouts. The Scion xD has more power and more usable space, but the Mazda2 is one of the most enjoyable cars in its class to throw around a corer.

If I had friends that need a ride, the Scion xD is the way to go.

If I wanted the car to be my friend, the Mazda2 is hard to beat.

Best of luck!

N

Speaking of Mazda…

Nathan and The Fast Lane Car team are here to answer your (reasonable) questions. Interesting and/or entertaining emails will be posted to this column. If it’s relevant in the automotive universe, there’s a chance we may know something about it. The author’s email address and name will be omitted – leaving your initials or nickname, your preference.

From day one, The Fast Lane Car has made it our policy to answer as many questions and comments as we can. We get thousands of emails and comments and feel that, as part of a tight-knit automotive community, having an open dialogue with you keeps things fresh and exciting.

Got a question for Nathan? Drop him a line at: asknathan@tflcar.com