Hyundai’s decided to apply a formula to its brand that has proven to be very successful in the past for other manufacturers.
By launching the already much-loved Veloster N in the last year, Hyundai created its own performance sub-brand and with it, created a trim. Think real AMG cars, and AMG-badged car, same for actual “M” cars and M-badged cars.
The first car to get an “N” package upgrade in Canada will be the Elantra GT. In other markets, the i30 N is an official N car complete with a turbocharged 275-horsepower 2.0-litre engine and more like the Veloster N here. In fact, Hyundai Canada hesitated on the Veloster when discussions were being held about which car to bring to market. The i30, or the Elantra, has greater appeal than the Veloster but I believe a motivating factor behind the final decision was production allowances.
Back to the news at hand. The new Elantra GT N Line becomes the top-line Elantra GT, replacing the Sport trim and brings with it a bespoke leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter knob, N line sport seats and specific interior trimmings.
On the outside, the Elantra GT N Line sports unique 18-inch wheels, a more aggressive front fascia and some aero bits. Mechanically, the car’s chassis is tuned with firmer mounts, stiffer springs, revised anti-roll bars and dampers. With the turbocharged 201-horsepower 1.6-litre engine, this one might be a hoot to drive.
The 6-speed manual Elantra GT N Line starts at $27,199. The Ultimate with the 7-speed DCT goes for $30,699.
Fun fact, the N Line Hyundai products are not yet confirmed in the US.
