2022 Hyundai Elantra N

Hyundai launched their N performance division with 2019’s Veloster N, a hyper-hatch that impressed us with its nimbleness and totally rewarding driving experience. Well, this year we’re back at the track for the next step in Hyundai's high performance journey, the Elantra N.

There are so many things about the 2022 Hyundai Elantra N sedan that are just so cool, it's hard to even know where to start. But, the fact that it exists is as good a place as any. Hyundai gave us all a shock when their N performance brand arrived 3-years ago, once again proving that they are capable of just about anything, including injecting European-style performance into the Veloster, their quirkiest ride.  

Now that beef comes to their most mainstream sedan, the compact Elantra; and it lets you know of its intentions as soon as it crackles to life. But, whereas the Veloster N was a surprise, the Elantra now has much bigger expectations to meet. Much of what makes the Elantra N go fast comes from the original Veloster N hatchback. Though, with the development of this sedan, Hyundai found a few things to upgrade, which have also now been applied to the Veloster.

The 2.0-liter turbo-4 features a new air intake system, and is now rated at 276-horsepower, which is only 1-horsepower more than the original Veloster N with the Performance Package. However, max torque sees a bigger jump from 260 to 289 lb-ft. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard, but an 8-speed DCT is available, and it comes with an overboost function that can deliver an extra 10-horsepower for 20-seconds. 

No overboost for us, as our test car featured the rev-matching manual. Good clutch feel allows for strong launches; aided by power delivery that doesn’t arrive in full until you get the revs up.  We hit 60 in a more than respectable 5.4-seconds, and cleared the ¼ in 14.1 at 100 miles-per-hour.      

As for hitting the full track, there are multiple drive mode options of course, as well as the ability to customize your own setup, and instantly recall it at any time with a push of the N button. Very responsive steering with good feel sets the tone immediately. The Elantra N corners flat, and gets through turns with surprisingly little understeer and very good grip. This is mostly due to the sport-tuned electronic limited slip differential, but the wider 245 series Michelin PS4Ss surely help as well. 

Significant chassis reinforcements have been added front to back, along with new multi-jointed anti-roll bars, and stiffer suspension bushings. It’s easy to keep good momentum through corners, and the engine is quick to deliver power coming out of them. Both shifter and clutch worked great, as did the rev-matching feature. As for entries, brakes are not only bigger, but get unique pads, and additional cooling. We found them strong, fade free, and consistent on track.  

Still, the Elantra N is one sporty ride that doesn’t leave out daily drive comfort, providing you find the right suspension setting. The N sport seats are not only more supportive for track work, but better all around, plus come with reshaped backs that allow for even more rear legroom.  

Other N upgrades include unique steering wheel and shifter, as well as metal pedals and sill plates. Hyundai’s infotainment system works great as always, and comes with some unique N elements, such as auxiliary gauge readouts. The splashes of red trim liberally applied outside is just the beginning of exterior updates. Aero enhancements include a front lip spoiler, rear wing and diffuser, sill extensions, underbody air flow management, and wider 19-inch alloy wheels.  

For the street, government Fuel Economy Ratings with the manual are 22-City, 31-Highway, and 25-Combined. Earning an average Energy Impact Score of 13.2-barrels of yearly oil use, with 5.9-tons of CO2 emissions.  

Reasonable pricing is to be expected here, and a base of $32,945 certainly qualifies; $1,500 more if you want the dual-clutch transmission.  

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra N proves that the Veloster N was no fluke. Moreover the N letter is spreading to their SUVs too with the KONA N. Indeed, Hyundai continues to find new ways to impress as they expand their profile over the automotive landscape. Turning their most everyday offerings into high-performance thrill rides has certainly gotten our attention. As Hyundai’s N division has quickly turned the brand into a serious performance car player. No doubt about it!