Table of Contents
Introduction to the Elantra N
Hyundai would like a word, but front-drive heroes are nothing new to the import and tuner communities—and America’s acquisition of the Honda Civic Type R for two generations has helped legitimize the species. The beloved Veloster N left the firm with enormous shoes to fill in the sport compact market, but there was still much potential for improvement due to its shortcomings, particularly an excessively rough ride. The Hyundai Elantra N, which emerged in 2022 and skillfully held the peculiar Veloster’s torch in its somewhat maniacal hands, was a significant improvement.
Design and Usability
Although the Elantra N is a more traditional vehicle—it is a sedan as opposed to a strange three-door hatchback—its size and design make it more useful for everyday driving and improve the Veloster’s dollars-to-smiles ratio. We have already tested the manual-transmission variant, which has been updated for 2024. At the test track, it’s now the dual-clutch automatic’s turn.
2025 Hyundai Elantra N Specifications
| 2025 Hyundai Elantra N Specifications | 2025 Hyundai Elantra N Specifications |
|---|---|
| BASE PRICE | $35,445 |
| PRICE AS TESTED | $36,945 |
| VEHICLE LAYOUT | Front-engine, FWD, 5-pass, 4-door sedan |
| POWERTRAIN | 2.0L turbo direct-injected DOHC 16-valve I-4 internal combustion engine |
| TOTAL POWER | 286 hp @ 5,500 rpm |
| TOTAL TORQUE | 289 lb-ft @ 2,100 rpm |
| TRANSMISSION | 8-speed twin-clutch auto |
| CURB WEIGHT (F/R DIST) | 3,334 lb (64/36%) |
| WHEELBASE | 107.1 in |
| LENGTH x WIDTH x HEIGHT | 185.4 x 71.9 x 55.7 in |
| TIRES | Michelin Pilot Sport 4S HN 245/35ZR19 (93Y) XL |
| EPA CITY/HWY/COMB FUEL ECON | 20/27/23 mpg |
| EPA RANGE, COMB | 285 miles |
| ON SALE | Now |
| 0-60 MPH | 4.7 sec |
| QUARTER MILE | 13.3 sec @ 106.7 mph |
| BRAKING, 60-0 MPH | 105 ft |
| LATERAL ACCELERATION | 0.97 g (avg) |
| MT FIGURE EIGHT | 24.3 sec @ 0.80 g (avg) |
Engine Specifications
First, we will address the objective issues. The 2.0-liter inline-four turbocharged engine in the Elantra N produces 289 lb-ft of torque and 276 horsepower (or, briefly, 286 using the N Grin Shift function). Either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) transfers power to the front wheels. At a reasonable 3,334 pounds, our DCT test vehicle topped the MotorTrend scales.
Acceleration and Handling
The Elantra N was whipped into a frenzy, completing our figure-eight test in 24.3 seconds at an average of 0.80 g, blasting over the quarter mile in 13.3 seconds at 106.7 mph, and running from 0 to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds. In contrast, the 2023 Honda Civic Type R, which has 315 horsepower, reached 60 mph in 5.3 seconds, completed the quarter mile at 104.2 mph in 13.9 seconds, and completed the figure eight in 24.5 seconds while averaging 0.73 g.
Comparisons with Previous Models
Despite having a six-speed manual as its only transmission, the Type R is also 169 pounds lighter. However, the Type R’s weight gives it a slight advantage in braking, stopping at 104 feet from 60 mph compared to the Elantra N’s 105 feet. The DCT car’s improvement over the manual Elantra N, which reached 60 mph in 5.7 seconds, completed the quarter in 14.3 at 100.0 mph, and sailed around the figure eight in 25.2 at 0.73 g, was perhaps even more astonishing.
Driving Dynamics
When the launch control is engaged and the N Grin Shift button is pressed, the car accelerates quickly on the test track or on the road while producing frantic engine noises. We set the engine in Sport+, the steering in Sport+, the e-LSD in Sport, the traction control off, the transmission in Sport+, and the exhaust in Sport+ as our ideal handling configuration for maximum attack.
Torque Steer and Grip
You may worry that this Hyundai might lose control, but there is no need to struggle with the Elantra N’s excellent footing; the days of FWD vehicles being ruined by torque steer are long gone. You can drive hard to the throttle far before corner departure without even smelling wheelspin, thanks to the N’s amazing limited-slip differential.
Everyday Usability
This is not to imply that the vehicle cannot be appreciated outside of closed-circuit conditions. No matter what you’re doing, this car is a blast. The excitement to go! go! go! and the energy built into the steering and chassis don’t go away when the pace drops.
Comfort and Interior Features
How is it to live with the Elantra N? With more noise, vibration, and roughness than your average commuter car, it’s like an eager, pushy dog that never lets you forget what it’s all about. The Elantra N Line is a step down in the lineup for those who don’t want their car to feel white-hot and alive, but enthusiasts will be happy with the firm but generally compliant ride.
Limitations
There are several drawbacks. First of all, there is no adaptive cruise control and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not wireless, so you will need a cable. The car’s turning radius is on the large side, which may be a challenge in confined parking spaces, and the non-heated steering wheel could be a pain if you live in a colder climate.
Fuel Efficiency
The fuel efficiency of 20/27/23 mpg city/highway/combined is respectable but not exceptional. The trunk’s cherry-red chassis bracing looks beautiful but reduces usefulness if you need to fold the seats down for anything.
Conclusion: A Standout in Performance
We give credit where credit is due: Hyundai did a fantastic job on this vehicle. In its class and niche, it stands out. After a week with the Elantra N, we’re still shocked that this vehicle exists and that anyone who can afford its reasonable price can have such accessible, powerful performance.
Although we adore the Honda Civic Type R, this vehicle is not much worse and is much less expensive. Fans of sport compact cars should check this one out as soon as possible because these kinds of specialized products tend to disappear quickly.
