Though the world is so targeted on electrical automobiles proper now, there’s nonetheless some good choices for patrons that desire a sporty compact automotive, just like the Honda Civic Sort R and Toyota GR Corolla. Hyundai has additionally thrown its hat within the ring with the 2023 Hyundai Elantra N, which is a good competitor to its Japanese rivals.
The Elantra nameplate has been round for many years, however up till now it’s by no means actually been an thrilling compact sedan. Hyundai by no means took the chance to go face to face with fashions, just like the Civic Si, VW GTI and even the Subaru Impreza. However with the arrival of its sporty N lineup, issues have modified. The N lineup initially began with the lately departed Veloster N, which was adopted by the Kona N and now the N remedy has been given to the Elantra, which turns this bizarre compact sedan right into a winner.
Underneath the hood, the Elantra N will get some additional muscle due to its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 276 horsepower. That’s extra energy than the GTI, however barely lower than the Civic Sort R or GR Corolla. All that energy is shipped to the entrance wheels through both a six-speed guide (yay) or an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. Hyundai didn’t simply cease with upgrading the engine, the Elantra N additionally will get chassis upgrades, which incorporates distinctive bushings, adaptive dampers, and spring charges.
We needed to wring the Elantra N out on the twisty roads in Angeles Crest in Los Angeles and boy was it enjoyable. The Elantra N stays planted to the street and its engine does pack a pleasant punch. The engine might use a bit extra energy although if Hyundai actually needs to win over patrons within the sport compact phase. It was fairly simple to squeeze out all the ability the engine might give on our drive, which simply felt much less thrilling than the Civic Sort R. The guide transmission may be improved a bit, since its throws are a bit lengthy.
We examined out the adaptive suspension which adjusts the suspension primarily based on which drive mode you’re in. In Consolation mode the trip is agency, however not harsh if you’re driving round city. The Consolation mode retains the Elantra planted to the street with out an excessive amount of physique roll. The Regular mode tightens issues up a bit and for the final word expertise, the N mode tightens issues up even additional to assist you to breeze via the twisties with ease.
The electrical energy steering additionally adjusts primarily based on which drive mode you’re in, with the Sport and N mode offering the right quantity of weight and suggestions. The fast steering additionally makes cornering simple and it feels extra direct than you’d count on. The suspension and steering present an additional degree of confidence if you’re coming into a nook at full throttle. The Elantra N by no means enables you to down by making you’re feeling immediately linked to it.
Though the Elantra N sends its energy to the entrance wheels, it’s one other instance that all-wheel drive isn’t all the time wanted to have enjoyable. Identical to the Civic Sort R, the Elantra N is tuned practically completely. The limited-slip differential helps put that energy to the bottom with out a lot wheelspin.
Lastly we are able to’t ignore the Elantra N’s soundtrack, it feels like a beast in comparison with the GR Corolla. Let off the fuel round a nook and the pops and crackles from the exhaust can’t solely be heard within the cabin, however by different automobiles round you. It undoubtedly provides to the enjoyable issue.
Contained in the Elantra N’s inside is sort of similar to the opposite Elantra fashions, except for a number of important gadgets, just like the N bucket seats. Because the cabin hasn’t modified a lot, the excellent news is that there’s loads of room in each rows, which supplies the Elantra N a sensible edge as effectively. There’s extra room within the rear than you’ll discover within the comfortable GR Corolla.
Now for the most effective half, the Elantra N is available in at a decrease beginning worth than both the Honda Civic Sort R or GR Corolla. It solely is available in one trim and begins at $34,015. That’s a cut price in comparison with the GR Corolla, which begins at $36,995 and the Civic Sort R, which begins at $44,890. Whereas the Elantra N will not be as enjoyable to drive because the Civic Sort R, it makes a compelling case for anybody on the lookout for a sporty compact automotive.
When you’re out there for a compact automotive, you may’t go incorrect with the Elantra N due to its spectacular chassis upgrades, turbocharged engine, enjoyable exhaust, practicality and low beginning worth.
