New 2022 Hyundai Elantra N will Bruise Many Egos

The turbocharged 2.0-litre engine will produce 276 horsepower and 289 lb.-ft. of torque.
The N Grin Shift (NGS) temporarily increases boost to produce 286 horsepower.
A 6-speed manual will be standard. An 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission will be optional.

We’ve mentioned it before, and we’ll say it again: We need to thank Hyundai for its N line of sporty vehicles. Now with seven models on offer, they all but completely own mainstream performance. And the new 2022 Hyundai Elantra N is set to be the group’s brightest shining star.

Physically, the Elantra N will not be mistaken for a regular Elantra. From all sides, the N features red accent strips which highlight the extra aero added to the sedan. The front fascia has a unique lip spoiler while at the rear, a must-have spoiler sits atop the trunk lid. Below, a diffuser is flanked by chrome-tipped tailpipes. The included unique 19-wheels are shod with 245- section width Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires.

The cabin is also dressed for the occasion. Fitted as standard are sports seats that are installed 10mm lower than in the regular Elantra. These same seats are lighter and thinner which serve to increase rear passenger room. N accents are found throughout the interior such as on the steering wheel, shifter, seats, door scuff panels, and more.

The central touchscreen display will include an N-exclusive graphic interface. It will display data such as oil, coolant, torque, and turbo meters. It is here as well that drivers will be able to fully customize driving components such as throttle response and steering feel and save them to the steering-wheel-mounted “N” drive buttons.

All these elements are nice and all however it’s what you don’t see that will thrill owners and upset the “competition.” The 2022 Hyundai Elantra N is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine that will produce 276 horsepower from 5,500-6,000 rpm and 289 lb.- ft. of torque from 2,100 to 4,700 rpm.

This wide and sustained powerband will make drivers grin. Failing that, for good measure and fun, Hyundai will include a variable exhaust valve system for must-have exhaust overrun “pops” and “crackles.” What’s more, the N Grin Shift (NGS) mode, when the N is equipped with the 8-speed DCT, will increase boost pressure for up to 20 seconds (with 40-second intervals), briefly boosting output to 286 horsepower for extra passing power. A close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission is standard.

All of this power will be put to good use as the Elantra N will be delivered with a N Corner Carving Differential (e-LSD) and launch control. The car is fitted with an integrated drive axle (IDA). The IDA integrates drive shaft, wheel hub and bearing in one for a weight reduction of 3.81 lbs. and a much stronger driveline when pushing hard.

Hyundai has fitted the Elantra N with powerful brakes as well. The ventilated 360 mm front and ventilated 314 mm rear rotors are equipped are clamped down on with high-friction pads and are cooled via additional air guides. The N also gets unique chassis bushings and extra measures to strengthen body rigidity have been applied.

With all this information in hand, the new 2022 Hyundai Elantra N will compete with the likes of the new Volkswagen Golf GTI and Golf R, the upcoming new Subaru WRX and WRX STI, and a few others. Considering that the already-quite-fun Elantra N Line is priced at $27,599, we’re thinking the full-fat N will come in at between $35,000 and $36,000 in Canada.

At this price point, it will scarcely be pricier than a GTI and roughly on par with the WRX. It will be a sharper and faster handler, likely upsetting in some respects the Golf R and WRX STI. We look forward to a first drive!