- we spied hyundai testing a high-performance elantra n compact sedan.
- we expect that the n variant of the elantra will use the same 275-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that's in the veloster n.
- expect the elantra n to be priced somewhere around $30,000.
hyundai just dropped a turbocharged, more aggressive-looking n-line model for the angularly redesigned 2021 elantra compact sedan. it has 201 horsepower, a standard six-speed manual transmission (#savethemanuals), and it's meant to entice more buyers into hyundai's high-performance n models. well, there will certainly be a more enticing elantra n, and it'll look even more menacing and have a bit more punch.
the elantra n-line is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine that produces 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. it comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, although a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic with paddle shifters is available. we expect that, like the coming kona n and, of course, the car and driver favorite veloster n, the rowdy elantra n will use the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that's good for 275 horses. and, like all the aforementioned models, it should come standard with a do-it-yourself gearbox, but with a quick-shifting dual-clutch as an option.
we definitely like the edgy look of the new elantra, and the n-line model looks just the right amount of aggressive. but the more powerful n model will be even more compelling with the addition of a low rear wing and gaping wide dual exhaust tips that should provide the same obnoxious snap, crackle, and pop that we've become addicted to on our long-term veloster n. it will also ride on the same five-spoke wheels as the veloster n and kona n we spied testing on the nürburgring earlier this year.
it's good to know that hyundai is serious about expanding its high-performance n portfolio, and we should hear more about the elantra's n variant soon. it should start at around $30,000, making it the same kind of performance bargain as the veloster n.