In a recent YouTube video, Thomas and James from Throttle House check out the 2021 Hyundai Elantra in N Line trim. A declaration that the “Elantra is no longer average” may sound like faint praise but really means that the duo considers the compact to have escaped its yawn-inspiring roots. Redesigned for 2021, the Elantra adds an N Line variant that has been popping on other Hyundais like the Kona, Sonata, and Elantra GT (a five-door hatch). Hyundai’s recipe for the N Line includes unique exterior and interior components as well as modest performance upgrades.
N Line is a step down from the company’s full-bore performance “N” sub-brand. "N Lite" might be a more accurate label.
N Line Equals Performance Upgrade
The Elantra N Line features a turbocharged 1.6L 4-cylinder making 201 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. It is a big step up from the standard engine with 147 hp. Other performance upgrades include larger brakes and retuned steering and suspension. The Canadian duo lament that their country will receive the Elantra N Line only with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), while Americans can also choose a six-speed manual.
Throttle House also brings up that the Elantra N Line was developed in part, by Albert Biermann, Hyundai’s head of research and development. Biermann is a 20-year BMW veteran and former head of their M division. An impressive background to bring to a mainstream car brand.
Thomas and James report a good but not mind-blowing driving experience during their respective drives for the video. The inability to take the car to redline (maybe it’s an automatic transmission thing) gets a little frustrating, and other vehicles, like the Volkswagen Jetta GLI, seem faster.
N Line Unique Exterior Elements
Outside, the Elantra N Line receives unique treatments for both the front and back, dual exhaust, sunroof, and projector headlights. 18-inch wheels are covered in Hankook all-season tires for models equipped with automatic transmission. Manual-equipped Elantra N Lines receive Goodyear summer tires instead.
Class-Leading Cabin
Inside, the cabin shines especially compared to competing vehicles like the Toyota Corolla Apex. The interior begins with N Line sport seats that Thomas and James report to be quite comfortable. Other features include an N Line gauge cluster, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and unique trim accents. Regrettably, certain upgrades like leather seats and larger infotainment screen are restricted to the more expensive and less performance-oriented, Limited trim.
The video wraps up as Throttle House praises the Elantra N line for being value-oriented while offering comfort and respectable performance. The car has a starting U.S price of $25,105 including freight.
Sources: YouTube, Hyundai