Overview
Hyundai is expanding its N performance sub-brand with a fire-breathing version of its new Elantra Compact car. The 2022 Elantra N is powered by a 286-hp version of the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder from the spunky Veloster N hatchback. Buyers can choose from either a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic. We’ve grown quite fond of the Veloster N during its stay with us for a 40,000mile long-term test, and the Elantra’s upscale vibe adds another layer of desirability. We put the Elantra N on our 2022 Editors’ choice award because it has what it takes to challenge established sport compact cars such as the Subaru WRX, the Volkswagen Jetta GLI, and the upcoming Toyota GR corolla.
What’s New for 2022?
The 2022 Elantra N is an all-new model in Hyundai’s budding performance-oriented N lineup.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The Elantra N comes only one way, and that’s basically fully loaded. A host of performance, technology, and safety features are standard and help to carry on Hyundai’s value-packed business model The only choices offered are exterior colors and either the manual or automatic transmission. As lovers of stick shifts, our recommendation is the standard six-speed manual, but we won’t judge you if you decide to go with the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Hyundai’s new sport compact sedan inherits its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder from the Veloster N hatchback. That engine makes a stout 275-hp in the Veloster N, but thanks to an overboost feature the company calls N Grin Shift, the Elantra N boasts a 286-hp rating. That gives the Elantra N a big power advantage over the Jetta GLI. An eight-speed automatic is available but we’re happy to report a six-speed manual is standard. During our brief test drive, we noted aggressive throttle response, crisp handling, and a sonorous exhaust note, all of which bodes well for the production model. The Elantra N’s longer wheelbase gives it a more compliant ride than the Veloster N but it still delivers the surefootedness we look for in a sports sedan. When we get a chance to take the Elantra N to our test track, we’ll update this story with test results.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
According to the EPA, the most fuel efficient version of the Elantra N is the one with the six-speed manual, which earned ratings of 22 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. Going with the automatic drops those numbers to 20 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. When we get a chance to test the new performance sedan, we’ll put it through 74 mph highway fuel test and update this story with results. For more information about the Elantra N’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Elantra’s all-digital dashboard carries over to the N model, with a large 10.3-inch digital gauge display sharing real estate with a 10.3-inch infotainment display that’s angled slightly toward the driver. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, in-dash navigation, and a Wi-Fi hotspot are all likely to be standard features.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
A host of driver assistance technology will likely be on the menu as standard features. For more information about Elantra N’s crash-test results, CarandDriver has uploaded their result on these portals. Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features are likely to include:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
- Available adaptive cruise control with a lane-centering feature
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