Don’t Downsize!
Yesterday, Hyundai brought out the refreshed Elantra N in the U.S., but they are already beginning to make plans for the next iteration of this powerful sedan. A year ago, Hyundai’s Executive Technical Advisor made an announcement regarding a gas-powered N model and recently shed more light on the sporty four-door vehicle. Albert Biermann stated in a CarExpert interview that the following Elantra N will boast a much more powerful engine.
“Prior to my departure from Namyang, I made sure that the Elantra was capable of running with the 2.5 turbo. It fit perfectly and all was in order. Australia is safe, as is the U.S., but someone had to make a decision, correct? As for markets outside of Australia, they can be forgotten. They are all fantasizing about the EV cloud, an EV paradise, and they have no interest in combustion cars.”
After dedicating 31 years to his time with BMW, Albert Biermann made the move to work for Hyundai in April of 2015. By 2018 he had become the President and Head of Research & Development of the Hyundai Motor Group. In his capacity as Head of R&D, he notably was crucial in establishing the N division before leaving the post in late 2021. Now, Albert is a technical adviser based in Europe, continuing to support the company in this advisory role.
Presently, the Elantra N is empowered with a turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine providing 276 hp and 289 lb-ft of torque. However, Hyundai’s Sonata N Line comes with an enhanced 2.5-liter powertrain delivering 290 horses and 311 lb-ft while later on, the 2024 Genesis G70 will have access to 300 horses as well as 311 lb-ft of rotation.
For the 2024 model year, Hyundai has given its Elantra N a thorough revamp, with redesigned grille, new bumpers, changed headlights and an altered rear diffuser. Furthermore, the compact sports sedan boasts 19-inch forged wheels which reduce weight by 33 lbs whilst being integrated with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S summer tires. As well as this, the new model year brings a reinforced engine-mount membrane in order to minimize vibrations.
Hyundai has issued a series of updates for their Elantra N, including completely renewed software for the power steering and an insulator in the rear suspension configured with urethane instead of rubber, used to crank up dampening. Besides, they have also adjusted tire pressure, implemented a fresh low-drag universal joint and tweaked the transmission for enhanced directness. Both six-speed manual and eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmissions continue to be available options for this vehicle.
The Hyundai Elantra N for the year of 2024 is expected to be available in dealerships in the beginning of January. Despite its predecessor having a starting cost of $32,900, no word on the price just yet.
Source: CarExpert