Someone has built a 500bhp Hyundai Veloster Turbo

The focus of this car, we’re reliably informed, was to boost the performance of Hyundai’s 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and create something that looks very angry.

‘Check’ and ‘check', then. This is a 500bhp Hyundai Veloster – dubbed the ‘Turbo R-Spec’ – built by a Chicago-based tuner called Blood Type Racing (BTR), set for an appearance at the upcoming SEMA show in Las Vegas.

As such, that 1.6-litre engine gets all manner of custom parts including forged pistons and connecting rods, a new intake manifold, a new exhaust, a custom intercooler, BTR’s own ECU, and a stronger clutch.

It also comes with a Garrett dual ball-bearing turbo, a new turbo manifold and all the assorted turbo paraphernalia that accompanies Big Power.

There’s also new suspension, a new torsion bar, upgrades brakes and lines, 19in wheels and more trackday-minded Toyo tyres. You’ll also spot the wide-body conversion, along with a red and black paintjob that’s more Sith lord than SEMA. Inside, there’s the usual gamut of gauges and harnesses and subwoofers you’d expect from any self-respecting tuner car.

“The engine tune on this vehicle is pushing the small-displacement motor to the edge,” explains BTR. Don’t forget, Hyundai itself is looking to make mighty inroads into the proper performance car bracket too...