The Hyundai Kona N and Elantra N are two new performance models from the Korean marquee. Recently, Hyundai has been one of the mainstream automakers who have been making some impressive cars. After the success of the i30 N and Veloster N for a few years. The N brand followed it up with the brand new and highly praised i20 N that the US market doesn’t get. However, other models in the range are getting amped-up for American roads.
If you are looking for a car with a little of spice in the $30-40,000 range, Hyundai has not one but two models to choose from. The Hyundai Elantra N is a sporty mid-size sedan that is as fast as its sleek styling suggests. The other is the new Hyundai Kona N, the crossover hatchback that has grown some hair on its chest. Both share a lot of components underneath and offer comparable performance. But are vastly different personalities.
Elantra N Vs Kona N: The Similarities
For starters, both performance-oriented models are powered by a 2.0-liter turbo-GDI engine. One that makes 276hp and 289 lb-ft of torque, all sent to the front wheels for both models. With the 8-speed wet dual-clutch automatic transmission, both models are equipped with an over-boost function. With the press of a big red button on the steering wheel, the driver gets an additional 10hp (286hp) for 20 seconds. Once depleted, it takes another 40 seconds to recover before it can be used again.
For both the N models of the Kona and Elantra, Hyundai has revised the suspension to be firmer, chassis to be stiffer, and a performance exhaust with genuine exhaust tips. The peppy exhaust note is mixed in with some pops and crackles like a real sports car. However, some sounds in the cabin are artificially enhanced. Additionally, both models offer different drive modes, along with an N mode that allows the driver to set parameters for steering, dampers, and powertrain individually to their liking.
Sending all that power to the front wheels, and delegating the responsibility to steer the car, is usually asking far too much from them. As a result, high-performance turbocharged front-wheel-drive cars are prone to torque steer. However, instead of eliminating torque steer, Hyundai is using a clever electronic limited-slip differential and a new Torque Feedback Rack-mounted Motor Driven Power Steering system to use it to its advantage to improve driver feel and feedback. The large touchscreen infotainment system also offers an N program that provides vehicle telemetry data for the driver to use on the track with a lap timer as well.
Elantra N Vs Kona N: Setting Them Apart
There are still a lot of similar components. However, subtle things between the two result in a bigger difference. Both models feature upgraded wheels, tires, are brakes from the standard versions. The new braking setup for the N models goes all the way up to 14.2-inch large rotors for added stopping power, and both cars ride on new 19-inch N-exclusive alloy wheels. However, the wheels on the Kona N feature 235/40R19 Pirelli P Zero tires. The Elantra N uses wider 245/35ZR 19 Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires.
Open up the ample boot of the Elantra N, the H-shape multijointed rear stiff bar can be seen. The brace helps improve body rigidity by 29% and improve ride and handling. The Elantra N also rides lower than the standard car for improved driving dynamics. However, the rear chassis brace is not used for the Kona N. Hyundai has also left the ride height of the Kona N to standard specification to maintain the practicality of a crossover.
But most importantly, the Elantra N is available with a three-pedal setup offering a 6-speed manual transmission option. The over-boost function and a few clever features are missing for the manual gearbox, but it does mean it is more engaging for the driver.
Elantra N Vs Kona N: Which Is Better?
Comparing the Elantra N and the Kona N pound for pound is like differentiating between apples and oranges. The Kona N looks to be a better choice as a daily driver for the family but can keep up with many fast cars on the track should you want to. It is a practical option that packs a good amount of firepower.
But for the true enthusiast who puts driving above all, the Elantra N, although still practical in more ways than one, would be the ideal choice of the two. With a lower center of gravity, a firmer chassis, wider and arguably better tires, the Elantra N would be a more nimble car to drive. Along with the option of manual transmission, the Elantra N would be faster around a racetrack.
The most important differentiating factor is the price. The Elantra N costs around $32,900. Meaning, it is more affordable than the $35,400 Kona N. The Elantra N gives an alternative to those looking for a Honda Civic Si or VW Jetta GLI. The Kona N, on the other hand, has free reign with no direct rivals in the US.