2018 Hyundai Veloster release date, specs news: Next-gen hatch spotted at video shoot; engine's sound teased

A promotional image for the 2017 Hyundai Veloster. The second-generation hatchback will be unveiled in January 2018. Hyundai

Hyundai is preparing to launch the 2018 Veloster and in doing so, the next-generation hatchback was spotted completely undisguised during a promotional shoot.

The latest spy shots of the 2018 Hyundai Veloster are actually quite blurry since the upcoming vehicle was photographed while zooming through the streets. According to Autoblog, the second-generation hatchback was most likely shooting for a video commercial.

Nevertheless, the captured images still provide a preview of the 2018 Veloster's exterior design. The upcoming vehicle appears to have retained the overall shape of its predecessor. It also features the same asymmetrical door configuration, with a single door on the driver side and two doors on the passenger side.

The new model benefits from more aggressive appearance thanks to an updated grille, a new bumper design and LED daytime running lights. From the side, it seems the 2018 Veloster will have a more sloping roofline and a wider rear window. Then, at the rear, there are slimmer and wider taillights as well as large and round center-mounted exhaust tips. The latter feature suggests that the model that was photographed could be the Veloster Turbo variant.

Though technical specifications have yet to be revealed, the 2018 Hyundai Veloster is expected to be offered with two turbocharged engine options — 1.4-liter and 1.6-liter. The powertrains may be mated to either a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.

To hype the upcoming launch, Hyundai recently released a video that teases the upcoming hatchback. The car still has a multicolored camouflage as it makes its way through a dark race track. The teaser also showcases the engine's performance with the exhaust system producing an audible roar.

The 2017 Hyundai Veloster is expected to be officially unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January 2018.