A little more power means a lot of blue.
The Elantra alpha is finally here. It has been a long wait. The Elantra N 2022 builds on the sporty lines and punchy power that the Elantra N Line has. It delivers more performance thanks to a host of upgrades under and underneath the skin. Hyundai also offers it with a shiny exterior coating of Performance Blue.
The big news is, as expected, what’s underneath the hood. The Elantra N gets the turbocharged 2.0-liter four cylinder that is found in other performance models of the brand. It produces 276 horsepower (206kilowatts) and is sent to the wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. The Elantra N is also available with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. However, it is a wet-box that performs sharp shifts and can reach 60 mph in just 5.3 seconds. The front wheels are able to handle the power and understeer thanks to the e-LSD.
The Elantra N has more than just power. The Elantra N has an integrated drive axle similar to what you see in WRC cars. This allows for more acceleration and cornering. Hyundai claims this arrangement can withstand lateral loads better and also reduces weight. The front rotors are 14.1 inches in diameter and feature upgraded brake pads and better cooling ducts. The suspension features upgraded bushings, isolators, and additional chassis bracing. Additionally, stiff rear bars and rigid rear bars add extra rigidity. Hyundai isn’t compromising on tires. All four corners are covered with 245/35ZR 19 Michelin Pilot4S rubber.
This is the core of performance upgrades. However, Hyundai also offers some cool features for fans. N Grin Shift, or NGS, temporarily increases the engine’s boost pressure. This gives the car an additional 10 horsepower for sprints. Engineers can also make artificial engine sounds in the car for passengers and drivers. But remember those Nurburgring spy videos with Elantra N prototypes snapping and popping like mad? It’s called the Variable Exhaust Valve System, and it’s real and not artificial. You can drive an Elantra angry by activating the system.
The Elantra N gets a lap timer to monitor the infotainment system, as well as other vital monitors such coolant temperature and engine oil. You get upgraded seats with more bolster support and lots of N branding to remind that this is not your average Elantra. Exterior is the most dynamic part of the N upgrade. It gains a front fascia and prominent rear wings, as well as a diffuser at the rear. Hyundai has yet to announce the availability or price of the Elantra N. It will be available in South Korea first, and then it will be sold to other markets by 2021.