Hyundai’s upcoming eighth-generation Elantra N performance sedan is expected to receive significant upgrades including a potential power increase, larger dimensions, and a bold new design language.
Key Details:
- Hyundai unveiled the eighth-generation Elantra last month in South Korea and hinted that a hotter N variant is coming soon
- The new Elantra adopts Hyundai’s “Art of Steel” design language featuring sharp edges and bold styling, with the N version expected to include a larger grille, red accents, aggressive side skirts, and a three-post rear wing
- The current Elantra N produces 268 hp from a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, but the next generation could feature a larger 2.5-liter turbocharged engine producing up to 300 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque, a significant jump over the current model
- A six-speed manual transmission is expected to continue, with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic as an option
- The new Elantra N is likely to debut in 2027 and go on sale for the 2028 model year
- Pricing is expected to start in the high $30,000 range but could cross into the $40,000s depending on the final powertrain and performance specifications
Why It Matters: The next Elantra N would move into a more competitive performance segment, challenging established rivals like the Honda Civic Type R, Volkswagen Golf R, and Toyota GR Corolla while maintaining Hyundai’s commitment to growing its N performance brand to over seven models by 2030.
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