Following the launch of the controversial all-new Elantra in March this year, Hyundai has now introduced a N Line model to the compact C-segment sedan, promising to “deliver more enhanced driving fun” as the new entry point to the full-blown Hyundai N brand.
A huge part of that claim stems from the new beating heart, which is a 1.6-litre GDI turbocharged engine that’s good for 201 horses and 264 Nm of torque. The new powerplant can be paired to either a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) to drive the front wheels.
For context, the 2.0-litre MPI engine in the standard Elantra produces a measly (by comparison) 147 hp and 179 Nm, while the electrified powertrain in the Elantra Hybrid does 139 hp and 264 Nm.
Hyundai also says that it has “implemented several mechanical improvements” to the suspension set-up of the Elantra N Line to “increase stiffness for a gripping performance”, though did not divulge further on the technicalities. There’s also a set of larger front brakes, though, like the suspension, no further information were given.
The standard Elantra already has quite a striking appearance, thanks to the non-conformist design approach that we actually quite like; the new N Line treatment though, turns the aggression knob on the C-segment fastback sedan up to 11.
Up front, there’s the new blacked-out “cascade” grille, new front bumpers featuring arrow-shaped “air curtains” that not only looks the part, but also actually serves aerodynamic and cooling purposes.
The sporty appearance is further aided by the side mirrors and new side skirts, both finished in black, new rear bumper and diffuser, new boot lip spoiler, twin chrome exhaust tips, as well as new 18-inch alloy wheels. Of course, N Line badges all round complete the new look.
Inside, the Hyundai Elantra N Line also gains variant-specific steering wheel, leather seats, gear lever, and instrument cluster – featuring analog dials for both the speedo and tachometer, paired with a small multi-info display to the right.
Unfortunately, thanks to architecture change, the top-of-the-line 10.25-inch infotainment system does not make its way onto the N Line model. Although, the system still supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, as well as Hyundai’s Digital Key feature.
Just like the standard Elantra, the N Line also comes with a host of advanced safety features, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, High Beam Assist, Driver Attention Warning, and Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist with Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist.
Alongside the launch of the Elantra N Line, Hyundai is also making available a set of N Performance Parts to bring it even closer to the full N experience. Further details of the N Performance Parts will be announced at a later date.
Following the launch of the Elantra N Line, the Korean carmaker also announced its plans to introduce a Sonata N Line later this year, featuring a 2.5-litre GDI engine to further expand the N Line line-up.
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