A Quick Drive In The 2024 Elantra N Proves Hyundai Can Close Budget Gaps With Fun

As someone who grew up with the sound of a revving engine echoing through my neighborhood, I can confidently say that the 2024 Hyundai Elantra N has rekindled those long-lost memories and then some! The refreshed model is not just a fun ride, but it’s also an affordable track performer that doesn’t break the bank.

In the short time I recently spent behind the wheel of the refreshed 2024 Hyundai Elantra N, I quickly learned that the Korean automaker knows how to make a fun, track performer without breaking the bank. After its introduction to the market in 2022, Hyundai has dialed in the Elantra N further with motorsport-derived enhancements to improve performance, technology updates, and styling changes. Altogether, the 2024 Elantra N makes for a fun and comfortable daily driver.

Everything New On the 2024 Hyundai Elantra N

By enhancing the 2024 Elantra N‘s performance aspects, Hyundai has taken an already enjoyable car and elevated it further. As per the manufacturer, the revamped Elantra N features enhanced parts that minimize vibration and boost agility, offer more controlled and precise steering, and boast a stiffer suspension. Hyundai additionally mentions that the software on its Electronic Controlled Suspension has been upgraded to harmonize with the hardware modifications.

Besides its mechanical enhancements, the 2024 Elantra N sports fresh design features as well. At the front, it boasts a revamped grille, front bumper, and larger air intakes, along with dual-projector LED headlights that lend an aggressive feel compared to the previous version. The vehicle also gets a makeover for its 19-inch alloy wheels, while at the rear, there’s a redesigned bumper fascia and diffuser that complete the Elantra N’s styling overhaul.

Behind the Wheel of the 2024 Elantra N

Driving the 2024 Hyundai Elantra N with its six-speed manual transported me back to my teenage years, reminiscent of borrowing a friend’s customized Civic or Lancer for the first time and experiencing the rush. Being a manual transmission enthusiast myself, stepping into this car felt like returning home. I appreciated the ergonomic design of the driver’s seat which offered comfort without causing discomfort to my shoulders or sides.

Upon ignition, a robust, harmonious sound emanates from the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine, filling the interior delightfully. The material inside could be improved with more soft-touch surfaces for a more luxurious feel. I was dismayed to find that a sunroof is not an option on manual versions.

Upon leaving the parking lot, I needed a moment to adapt to the delicate clutch control since the engine slightly revved ahead to avoid stalling. Once I got my bearings straight, I noticed it made for smoother takeoffs. The initial acceleration felt manageable in standard mode, but with 276 horsepower and 286 lb-ft of torque at my disposal, I yearned for more. Hyundai’s N Mode, which is the Elantra N’s most performance-oriented setting, enables drivers to customize various aspects such as engine response, rev matching, electronic limited slip differential, suspension, electronic stability control, and exhaust sound. This mode allows you to extract a bit extra from the engine and transmission by fine-tuning the logic of both systems.

I found the manual shifts in this car to be a bit lengthier than desired, yet they didn’t diminish the enjoyment. In regular mode, the Elantra N is enjoyable, although it lacks in sound and performance intensity. There was also a discernible delay between gear shifts. For most of my drive, I preferred the N Mode, which provided more engine noise feedback. Shifts became smoother and rev matching made downshifting much simpler. The steering felt firm and responsive with minimal pull when accelerating. The Elantra N’s suspension was rigid, but it effectively absorbed large bumps without causing discomfort.

Price of the 2024 Elantra N

2024 Hyundai Elantra N with a six-speed manual transmission has a base price of $33,700. Among the six color choices, three are standard, while Performance Blue and Atlas White cost an additional $470 each. If you prefer the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, be prepared to pay an extra $1,500. Additionally, some factory accessories could increase the Elantra N’s final price by up to $530.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the 2024 Hyundai Elantra N boasts an enjoyable and comfortable ride. It caters exceptionally well to drivers with a variety of adjustable settings that can turn your daily commute into an exhilarating experience if desired. Compared to the Civic Type R and Toyota GR Corolla, the Elantra N is more affordable yet delivers comparable performance and brings on grin-inducing excitement.

2024-12-12 22:58