The new 2022 Hyundai ELANTRA N is making its U.S. debut. It's part of Hyundai's new N Performance brand and arrives in the winter of 2022. (Don't confuse the N with the N-Line, they are two different badges).
The 2022 ELANTRA N is a high-performance variant of the new, redesigned Elantra. Hyundai says the N badging means it adds strong, dynamic driving capabilities and aggressive design elements to the standard model. There are more than 40 specialized N elements applied to the ELANTRA N, tuned precisely to enhance driving performance.
Powertrain
The ELANTRA N is powered by a 2.0-liter, turbocharged, direct-injected flat-power engine with a 52-mm turbine wheel and a 12.5-mm turbine passage with an area increased by 2.5 mm. Hyundai says these enhancements, along with the optimization of the shape and material of the cylinder block, improve both performance and durability. As a result, the flat-power technology generates maximum output from 5,500 rpm for brisk acceleration.
The ELANTRA N flat-power engine is available with an N eight-speed wet, dual-clutch transmission (N DCT), delivering maximum output of 276 horsepower from 5,500-6,000 rpm and torque of 289 lb.-ft. from 2,100 to 4,700 rpm. With N Grin Shift (NGS), the boost pressure temporarily increases, briefly increasing output to 286 horsepower. The ELANTRA N is also available with a standard, close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox.
ELANTRA N's handling performance is further enhanced by the N Corner Carving Differential (e-LSD), Variable Exhaust Valve System and Launch Control—all of which are specialized, high-performance standard features. For DCT models, N Grin Shift (NGS), N Power Shift (NPS) and N Track Sense Shift (NTS) are standard features that maximize driving engagement.
To further enhance handling character, ELANTRA N provides robust braking performance. The 14.2-inch brake rotors are equipped with high-friction pads to ensure best-in-class braking performance. Furthermore, an additional cooling aperture in the half-cut brake dust covers, combined with braking air guides, provides improved cooling efficiency. Consistent braking force can be maintained even in harsh driving conditions. The ELANTRA N for the U.S. market retains a mechanical-type parking brake.
N Brand Firsts
The ELANTRA N also offers a bunch of new to the N lineup features. For the first time ever in a Hyundai, ELANTRA N applies an integrated drive axle (IDA), inspired by technology in WRC rally cars. By integrating drive shaft, wheel hub and bearing, a weight reduction of 3.81 lbs. enables a lighter and stronger driveline. It also benefits performance during extreme lateral g-forces.
By integrating the intake duct and air cleaning element in the intake compartment, ELANTRA N's throttle response is sharpened by reduced pumping losses, while the intake system weight is reduced. The shape of the powertrain mount has been optimized to improve integration of movement between the powertrain and the body while driving, increasing handling responsiveness.
Hyundai has applied, for the first time, a dual-compound insulator to the front suspension. This, together with the dual-compound trailing-arm bushing achieves optimal performance in ride and handling as well as noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH), separating front/rear and left/right dynamic forces. ELANTRA N applies four-point strut rings and a rear stiff bar to strengthen body rigidity. Torque-feedback rack-mounted power steering (R-MDPS) provides a consistent steering feel even when the external environment changes, such as temperature. These high-performance technologies developed through N have been applied to general mass-produced vehicles and are expected to lead to overall performance of the product lineup in the future.
An N Sound Equalizer (NSE) is also new to the N badge. Hyundai describes it as a virtual engine sound that simulates sounds from Hyundai Motorsports, such as TCR race cars. It also has an equalizer function that adjusts for each range (whine, throat, bass) to a driver's preference, (i.e mood.) In addition, the variable exhaust valve system, which delivers the exhaust overrun 'pop' and 'crackle' elements, now uses linear control to reduce booming during idling, while still keeping the distinctive N exhaust note.
Lastly, the ELANTRA N is the first N vehicle equipped with 245-section width Michelin®Pilot Sport 4S tires on 19-inch alloy wheels. Hyundai says they increase traction and dynamic cornering performance.
Sporty Looks
The ELANTRA N adds components that maximize aerodynamics and aggressive appearance. On the front, a lip spoiler that runs low across the lower fascia to convey a low-slung stance. The N-exclusive red strip at the base of the front fascia continues along ELANTRA N's side valance, giving it a racetrack-ready look. A prominent, N-exclusive wing spoiler with rear diffuser helps control airflow for aerodynamic performance and aggressive styling. The tail end also features an inverted-triangle N-exclusive reflector and dual, single-tipped exhaust.
N-Branded Interior
In the cabin you'll find N-branded elements everywhere you look, including the steering wheel, shifter, seats, door scuff panels and metal pedals. N light sport seats with N illumination are 10mm lower compared to the standard Elantra specification for high-performance drivability. N light sport seats reduce seat back thickness by two inches compared to the base model, further highlighting best-in-class rear seat roominess and practicality.
Technology
The ELANTRA N advanced infotainment system is equipped with an N-exclusive graphic interface so that drivers can feel as if they are sitting in a dynamically moving VR game seat while watching a racing game screen. The system employs colorful design graphics, allowing the driver to intuitively enjoy dynamic performance. Information needed for high-performance circuit driving, such as oil, coolant, torque, and turbo meters are displayed in the single-circle digital N mode cluster for driver convenience. Furthermore, to maximize driving pleasure, drivers can customize various driving conditions, such as engine and steering feel.
Safety
ELANTRA N is equipped with a full array of advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) features, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Lane Following Assist (LFA), Driver Attention Warning (DAW), High Beam Assist (HBA), Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA), Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Alert (RCCA), and Safe Exit Warning (SEW), among others.