Sporty Hyundai Elantra N Line launched

After releasing teaser images, design sketches and videos for a while now, Hyundai has finally revealed its new Elantra N Line saloon. Hyundai expects the Elantra N Line to serve as an entry point for the N Brand, which is squarely aimed at performance enthusiasts, a new customer profile for the Korean carmaker.

Remember this is not a full-fledged ‘N’ car, so the differences from the regular Elantra saloon launched in April this year are mostly cosmetic, including a few N Line badging sprinkled along the body and interior, and some mild suspension tweaks.

Hyundai says its engineers have made several mechanical improvements to Elantra’s suspension to increase stiffness, along with 18-inch alloy wheels, multi-link independent rear suspension and larger front brake rotors.

The carmaker claims features such as paddle shifters and Drive Mode Selector system contribute to a more involving experience behind the wheel compared to the regular model. Interior design elements include a leather-wrapped perforated N steering wheel with metallic spokes, N sport seats with leather bolsters, gearshift with metal accents and leather inserts, and alloy pedals.

The sporty side skirts, creases along the body, and 18-inch alloy wheels accentuate the fastback saloon’s low, wide stance, lending it an overall athletic appearance.

The rear is also characterized by bold lines and creases, with the integrated spoiler, chrome twin exhaust and N Line rear diffuser rounding off the changes.

Elantra N Line is powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine with six-speed manual or seven-speed Double Clutch Transmission options, putting out 201 horsepower and 265Nm of torque.

“The new Elantra lineup, with N Line and HEV variants, will satisfy a wider variety of customers. The N Line model will appeal to customers who favor a sporty look and spirited driving performance while the HEV model will appeal to those who prefer high fuel efficiency,” said Thomas Schemera, Executive Vice President, Head of Product Division at Hyundai Motor Group.