For many years now, Hyundai has had a solid mid-sized sedan with the Elantra. Hyundai has also seen a lack of performance vehicles since the departure of the Tiburon in 2008. The addition of the Hyundai Veloster N in 2018 saw a brief moment of what performance-based Hyundais could be. Now, we finally see what the Elantra can be with the Hyundai Elantra N.
A standard Hyundai Elantra is a modest commuter car with a limited range of features and an underpowered engine. As a way to appeal to a growing market of higher power vehicles, Hyundai introduced the Elantra N. The Hyundai Elantra N marks a firm transition away from modest and into aggressive territory.
Along with upgrades to the engine, Hyundai has introduced race-inspired N parts throughout the vehicle, encompassing a whole new feel for the classic commuter. Additionally, Hyundai has upped the interior with features that make it stand out. Here's everything you need to know!
9 Almost Twice the Horsepower
Hyundai wanted to introduce a vehicle that could stand up to the Honda Civic in terms of power, and they succeeded. A standard Hyundai Elantra sees only 147 hp. However, with the new Hyundai Elantra N, horsepower is ramped up to 276 hp thanks to a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four.
This added power in the Hyundai Elantra N boosts speeds considerably. The Hyundai Elantra N boasts a 5 second 0-60, a time that puts it in line with Honda's Civic Si or Subaru's WRX.
8 It Has a Manual Transmission
Fans of manual transmissions rejoice! The death of the manual transmission won't be so soon after all, especially when manufacturers like Hyundai continue to build fantastic cars with manuals. There are two choices for the Hyundai Elantra N, either a 6-speed manual transmission or an 8-speed wet clutch automatic.
The Hyundai Elantra N does a great job of including a manual mode for the automatic option. With steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, the automatic transmission provides just as much fun as the manual.
7 Hyundai N Race-Inspired
The Hyundai Elantra N joins the Veloster N and the Kona N as the performance vehicles for the brand. That level of precision shows! This type of performance starts engineering with the race track in mind.
Thanks to engineers from Genesis working with various platforms geared toward performance, the Hyundai Elantra N got its start on the track. Debuting at Daytona, the Hyundai Elantra N TCR made quite the statement. Taking from this lineage, the street version of the Elantra N features that same level of love.
6 N Branded
Just as Hyundai did with the Veloster N, the Hyundai Elantra N features quite the foray of "N" branded materials. To ensure that no one is confused about the level of trim, the Elantra N makes itself quite known.
Hyundai has included the "N" badging on the seats, brake calipers, steering wheel, and grille. Hyundai took a note from Toyota TRD and has branded everything taken from the Hyundai N performance.
5 Drive Modes
The Hyundai Elantra N takes driving to a whole new level with their drive modes, standard for the automatic transmission. These drive modes include an Eco mode, a Normal mode, and a Sport mode.
The Hyundai Elantra N has digitalized these drive modes to offer more than just a single driving experience. Though the manual doesn't feature these modes, it still provides a great rev-match that offers a ton of fun!
4 Loaded With Tech
Aside from drive modes, rev-match, and a host of other performance features, Hyundai has committed to adding an upscale feel to their mid-sized sport sedan.
Inside the Hyundai Elantra N features smartphone connectivity, which includes a digital key. These advanced features join a 10.25 touch-screen infotainment system and instrument cluster. Bucket seats and leather trim add to the upscale interior design, making it look as good as it drives!
3 Hyundai Elantra N Design
Back in 2019, the standard Elantra received a facelift. It wasn't aggressive enough, so Hyundai revamped the Elantra N design further, matching the guts they put inside.
The Hyundai Elantra N features Elantra N TCR design elements such as the more prominent front grille and air intake. Further, the red-accented trim, aggressive lines, and sharp angles provide a sporty feel to the usually mundane commuter car. Side-by-side, the Elantra N is the Elantra in a fighter's body.
2 Sports Car at a Deal
The Hyundai Elantra N starts at $24,250 for the entry-level N-line Elantra. At this price point, don't expect top specs. However, it's quite an aggressive price considering that the Honda Civic and Subaru WRX start near $30,000 for similar specs.
A fully loaded Hyundai Elantra N will still run you less than $30,000 and provide many features that the competitors would charge thousands of dollars more for similar features. The Hyundai Elantra N is a sports car in a budget package!
1 Final Thoughts
The Hyundai Elantra N looks to provide another option to the mid-sized sport sedan mix. Compared to Subaru and Honda, the Hyundai Elantra N provides more fun at a cheaper price point. The race-inspired blood and N branded badging go well with the aesthetic of the car and looks to bring down a couple of long-standing giants.