Hot sedan brings the best of both worlds, ‘high-performance’ and ‘practicality’
· 2.0L turbo flat power engine and 8-speed wet DCT delivers 280 horsepower (ps), 40 kgf·m of torque for a top speed of 250 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 5.3 seconds
· Advanced infotainment system with N-only UX provides a new concept circuit driving experience
· Dynamic driving capability is complemented by functional design that includes side skirt, wing-type spoiler, diffuser, etc., for enhanced aerodynamic performance
· Elantra N with numerous enhancements is the best option for driving enthusiasts
Dubai, July 14, 2021 – Hyundai Motor Company’s high-performance N brand today unveiled its Elantra N (sold as Avante N in Korea) in a digital world premiere (https://www.youtube.com/hyundainworldwide). The hot sedan completes the N brand lineup of ‘everyday sports cars.’
Elantra N is a high-performance variant of the All New Elantra, released in April 2020. It adds strong, dynamic driving capability and aggressive design elements on top of the sporty standard model.
In a video released today, Hyundai Motor’s N brand provides details of over 40 N elements applied to Elantra N through a story about a boy falling in love with cars, and visually reveals the excellence of this everyday sports car, which has been tuned precisely to enhance driving performance.
At the end of the video, N brand teases that it will participate in another endurance race with a car that combines a hydrogen fuel cell and an electric battery.
“Pairing hydrogen and battery power could open up very interesting future options for Hyundai in motorsports and beyond,” said Thomas Schemera, Executive Vice President and Head of Customer Experience Division at Hyundai Motor Company. “Hydrogen can be used as a range extender or a power booster. We have the technology available and I am quite confident that we will make this happen.”
First high-performance N sedan takes driving enthusiasts from street to circuit
Elantra N is powered by a 2.0-liter turbo flat power engine with a 52-mm turbine wheel, which is 5 mm larger in diameter than before, and a 12.5-mm2 turbine passage with an area increased by 2.5 mm2. These enhancements, along with the optimization of the shape and material of the cylinder lock, improve both the performance and durability of the engine. As a result, the flat power technology maintains the maximum output from about 5,500 rpm for brisk acceleration.
Elantra N’s flat power engine is mated with an 8-speed wet dual clutch transmission (DCT), delivering maximum output of 280 horsepower (ps) and maximum torque of 40 kgf·m. With N Grin Shift (NGS), the boost pressure increases, temporarily enhancing output up to 290 ps. As a result, Elantra N achieves a top speed of 250 km/h and runs 0-100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds.
Elantra N’s spirited performance is further supported by N Corner Carving Differential (e-LSD, electronic Limited Slip Differential), Variable Exhaust Valve System and Launch Control—all of which are specialized, high-performance features that are applied as standard. For DCT models, N Grin Shift (NGS), N Power Shift (NPS) and N Track Sense Shift (NTS) are provided as standard features to maximize driving pleasure.
To shine in the corners, Elantra N provides robust braking performance. The 360-mm brake discs are equipped with high-friction material pads to ensure best-in-class braking performance for high-performance vehicles. Furthermore, a cooling hole is applied to the dust cover along with a brake air guide structure to improve cooling efficiency and the area is also optimized to vent heat from braking friction. Attention has been paid to every detail so that consistent braking force can be maintained even in harsh driving conditions.
In Elantra N, there are features implemented for the first time in an N model that also stand out.
For the first time ever in a Hyundai, Elantra N applies an integrated drive axle (IDA), inspired by technology used in WRC rally cars. By integrating drive shaft, wheel hub and bearing, weight reduction of 1.7 kg enables a ‘lighter and stronger’ car. This is also beneficial in terms of withstanding extreme lateral g-force.
By integrating the intake duct and air cleaner in the intake compartment, Elantra N’s engine response is sharpened while the intake system’s weight is reduced, and suction pressure reduced by about 10 percent or more. The shape of the powertrain mount is optimized to improve integration of movement between the powertrain and the body while driving and increase handling responsiveness.
In addition, Hyundai Motor applied for the first time a dual compound insulator to the front suspension. This, together with the dual compound trailing arm bush achieves optimal performance in ride and handling as well as noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) by separating front/rear and left/right characteristics.
Elantra N applies four-point strut rings and rear stiff bars to strengthen body rigidity. Torque feedback R-MDPS is applied to provide a consistent steering feel even when the external environment changes, such as temperature.
These high-performance technologies developed through N have been applied to general mass-produced vehicles and are expected to lead to improvement in the overall performance of the product lineup in the future.
Elantra N adds a special feature for driving pleasure. N Sound Equalizer (NSE) is a virtual engine sound that not only provides driving sounds that represent Hyundai Motorsports, such as TCR race car sounds, but also has an equalizer function that allows the driver to adjust details for each range (whine, throat, bass), with consideration for personal preference. This allows the driver to hear a more realistic and dynamic engine sound while driving.
In addition, the variable exhaust valve system, which delivers N’s distinctive ‘popcorn’ and ‘bang’ sounds, now uses a linear control method to reduce the booming sound during idling while maintaining the distinctive N exhaust note for the driver’s enjoyment.
Lastly, Elantra N is the first N vehicle to use 245-size Michelin PS4S tires on 19-inch wheels in support of dynamic driving performance.
High-performance N-only infotainment system provides new circuit driving experience
Elantra N’s advanced infotainment system is equipped with a graphic interface dedicated to N, so driving enthusiasts can intuitively enjoy the car’s dynamic performance.
Information needed for high-performance circuit driving, such as oil and coolant temperatures, torque and turbo pressure, which are difficult to check in most cars, is displayed in numbers on the cluster so that the driver can feel more engaged with Elantra N’s performance.
In addition, the lap timer, a high-performance dedicated infotainment function, measures the time it takes to drive a lap on the racetrack and the ‘N Track Map’ records the driver’s location and movement on the circuit in real time. This allows the driver to record their performance without the need for additional specialized equipment and helps them analyze and improve on their performance.
In Korea, Hyundai Motor also is releasing the ‘Hyundai N’ app for high-performance N customers. The app allows users who join the Bluelink (connected car service) to conveniently browse the high-performance infotainment functions of the Elantra N on personal smartphones and tablets. By providing analysis functions based on G-Force, RPM, torque output and lap time, it helps drivers to improve their driving skills in an easy, fun way.
Hyundai Motor plans to expand the function of the Hyundai N app so that it can be used not only by customers who purchase Elantra N with Bluelink, but also by customers who have an existing N vehicle.
In addition, it is expected that more customers with high-performance N models will be able to enjoy racetrack driving as if it were a game by applying a ranking system for each circuit in Korea that allows comparison of an N customer’s records with those of others.
Strong, dynamic driving sensibility harmonizes with sporty character
Building on the already sporty styling of the All New Elantra, Elantra N adds many performance-enhancing parts that further maximize its dynamic driving capability and aggressive appearance.
Elantra N’s front fascia takes inspiration from the battle-ready appearance of a driver’s race helmet, and the lip spoiler that runs low across the lower part of the bumper conveys a low-slung stance with performance intent.
The N-exclusive red strip at the bottom of the front bumper continues along Elantra N’s side skirts, giving the hot sedan a racetrack-ready look.
The prominent, N-only wing-type spoiler, along with rear diffuser, help control airflow to support optimal aerodynamic performance, further highlighting Elantra N’s high-performance capability and adding to its aggressive styling.
In addition, an inverted triangle type N-only reflector and dual single muffler tip, reminiscent of a Formula One car, neatly finish Elantra N’s high-performance image.
The N-specific interior neatly conveys the N family look with the application of N-branded elements, including the steering wheel, shifter, seats, door scuff panels and metal pedals, etc.
On the steering wheel with paddle shifters, the NGS button (DCT only) that raises horsepower by 10 ps for up to 20 seconds and two N buttons that set the desired drive mode are arranged to suit the driver’s preference. Driving modes can be customized and matched to each button in various combinations to maximize Elantra N’s fun driving spirit.
The N seat has reinforced bolsters, so that even if strong lateral acceleration occurs during sharp cornering, it firmly supports the upper and lower body to maintain a stable driving posture at all times. In addition, an optional N bucket seat with N emblem lighting has a position that is lower by 10 mm compared to the basic specification, designed for customers who pursue high-performance drivability.
The N light bucket seat reduces the seat back thickness by 50 mm compared to the base model, further highlighting best-in-class rear seat roominess and practicality.
“Hyundai Motor’s high-performance N brand constantly aims to provide customers with a range of exciting choices for increased driving pleasure,” said Till Wartenberg, Vice President and Head of N Brand Management & Motorsport sub-dvision at Hyundai Motor Company. “Elantra N is the purest expression of our mission to date.”
Elantra N Specifications
| Specifications | Elantra N | |
| Full Length (mm) | 4,675 | |
| Full Width (mm) | 1,825 | |
| Full Height (mm) | 1,415 | |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2,720 | |
| Engine | Form | 2.0T-GDI |
| Displacement (cc) | 1,998 | |
| Maximum Output (ps) | 280 | |
| Maximum Torque (kgf·m) | 40.0 |
Improved points on Elantra N
| Category | Code | Description |
| Brake | AGAir Guide | The air guide, originated from motorsports, improves braking performance by allowing air to flow directly towards the brake to cool off the heat generated from braking. |
| DCHDust Cover cooling Hole | Even the smallest detail has been modified to improve braking performance. The size of dust cover has been minimized and holes have been added to cool the braking disk from the guided airflow. | |
| LBDLarger Brake Disc | Increased disc size of 360mm enhances heat endurance capacity and braking performance. With a wider tire, ELANTRA N’s braking performance places at the top of its class. With ELANTRA N, you can go on track from day 1. | |
| HBPHigh friction Brake Pad | High friction coefficient material brake pads reduces fade and maximize bite when breaking at high speed. This shortens breaking distance, which is the shortest among its competitors. | |
| PFPre-Fill | Pre-fill braking logic increases braking responsiveness by filling the brake hydraulic pressure in advance when sudden braking is expected. | |
| COCreep Off | Drivers can select between ‘Creep On’ and ‘Creep Off’. When set to ‘Creep Off’, no additionary braking is required when the car is stationary on the grid which allows faster acceleration. | |
| LBLeft foot Braking | Left foot braking allows simultaneous brake and excel pedal control. It improves vehicle yaw control. It is activated under the condition of 1. sport + or N mode, 2. ESC off and 3. gear knob on manual, which cancels brake override. | |
| P/T | FPFlat Power | Flat power prolongs power at high RPM range especially in high speed acceleration. Greater engine response, improved torque and engine power extend maximum power duration, delivering a more powerful driving experience. |
| NPSN Power Shift | As a DCT exclusive feature, NPS enhances acceleration performance by maximizing engine torque during upshift and reduces 0-62mph/0-100kph time by 0.2s. NPS provides a ‘push feel’ during upshift as though shifting the sequential gear of a race car. | |
| NTSN Track Sense Shift | Automatically selects optimal gear shift and shift timing when track driving is sensed. This enables drivers to avoid busy gear shifting, like a professional driver. | |
| SPDShift Pattern Differentiation | Shift Pattern differs mode by mode. Among 8 gears, N mode mostly uses 1~6 with shifting at higher RPM, while Normal mode uses all 8 gears. Uphill, downhill, tip-off and cornering specified shift logic prevents uneccesary gear shifting to provide optimal power delivery. | |
| NGSN Grin Shift | NGS provides extra 10 horsepower for 20 seconds, boosting to 290 horsepower by temporarily utilizing turbocharger over-boost and maximizing transmission response. Reduced interval time of 40 seconds allows you to push NGS at every lap. | |
| LCLaunch Control | Launch Control allows driver to enjoy maximum acceleration from standstill with ease by optimizing engine torque and clutch engagement control. Drivers can easily repeat best standstill acceleration. Launch Control reduces 0-62mph/0-100kpm time by 0.3sec. | |
| TOTurbine Optimization | Engine performance has been enhanced by increasing the size of turbine wheel from 47mm to 52mm, and expanding the scroll area from 10.0㎟ to 12.5㎟. The durability of the cylinder block has been enhanced by cross drilled treatment to optimize turbine responsiveness. | |
| ETMEngine TM Mount | Engine and transmission mount with larger stopper and optimized shape firmly holds on to the powertrain, improving steer responsiveness. Thus, minimizing roll and yaw behavior for optimal performance driving. | |
| REV Rev Match | Automatically matches speed of engine and optimizes gear shift. When downshifting, automatic heel-and-toe reduces physical burden of manual shifting and allows faster corner exits. | |
| Chassis /Body | TSCTorque Steer Control | Torque steer control prevents excessive abnormal rotation of steering wheel caused by disparities in torque between left and right sides of the drive wheel at rapid acceleration. This improves overall driveline alignment. |
| SSMSteering Solid Mounting | R-MDPS system and sub-frame are affixed solidly, improving direct steering feedback. Fast steer and counter-steer are also improved based on this mounting structure. | |
| 4BE4 points underbody Enhancement | 4 points of underbody enhancement strengthen body rigidity and improve ride & handling: 1) Sub-frame front reinforced structure 2) V.Stay 3) Center Tunnel Stay 4) Rear Tunnel Brace. | |
| RSBRear Stiff Bar | H-shape multijointed rear stiff bar increases body rigidity by 29% compared to the base model. Not only does this improve ride & handling, the red color adds to the overall sporty look. | |
| 4SR4 points Strut Ring | Originated from racing cars, the strut ring has been reinforced with an additional connection point. 4-point strut ring connects the suspension and body tightly, improving ride & handling precision. | |
| IDAIntegrated Drive Axle | Inspired by WRC rally cars, the drive shaft, wheel hub and bearing have been developed into one integrated drive axle. This is beneficial in terms of withstanding extreme lateral g-force, weight reduction of 1.7kg and noise reduction. | |
| DCBDual Compound Bush | 2 types of compound bushes are applied for ride comfort and firm handling, respectively in the vertical and horizontal direction. This is one of the keys factors that make ELANTRA N an ambidextrous performance car. | |
| TFMTorque Feedback R-MDPS | Improves steering consistency and precision in any driving condition through the robust torque feedback logic, providing a more precise steering experience when carving corners. | |
| ECSElectronic Controlled Suspension | A different range of damping force based on speed, driver input, road condition and driving modes provides better ride and handling performance. This 2nd generation ECS allows the widest range of suspension setting ever, from extreme track situation to going on a family roadtrip. | |
| ELSDElectronic Limited Slip Differential | Actively distributes torque between the inner and outer wheels when cornering. This enhances dynamic performance, allows faster corner exits and minimizes understeer by optimizing wheel slip and weight transfer. | |
| NESN Electronic Stability Control | N Electronic Stability Control maximizes thrill and fun in corners by providing a ‘rear end sliding’ feeling. | |
| AKAluminum Knuckle | Aluminum knuckle reduces the weight of unsprung mass, providing a more agile ride & handling. | |
| GBG-Bush(Lower control arm bush) | Lower control arm bushes are strengthened to its limit for sharper and precise handling. The most optimal tire and G-bush combination is offered by taking advantage of the extra comfort margin of a wider tire. | |
| DADuct-style airguard | For maximum cooling on the radiator surface, airflow is guided by duct-style airguard. This maximizes speed, improves aerodynamic, fuel-efficiency, and cooling ability in extreme conditions. | |
| Sound | RRCRear Resonance Control | Rear Resonance Control provides maximum comfort in the back seat by reducing road booming noise. |
| UBSUpshift Bang Sound | The Upshift Bang Sound is created by controlling fuel flow of the single cylinder and fully opening the variable exhaust valve. This recreates the emotional sound of motorsports. | |
| NSEN Sound Equalizer | N Sound Equalizer amplifies dynamic driving sound in harmony with the famous N exhaust sound through interior speakers. Drivers can select between sporty, high performance and TCR mode and even customize three different tones and levels. | |
| LVELinear Variable Exhaust Valve System | The N exhaust sound has been restructured and refined by adding linear variable valve setting from 0 to 100. When you are idling in normal mode, creep booming will be minimized. While on N mode, fully opened valve generates exhaust sound that suits your N mood. | |
| Design /Aerodynamics | 3BS3 Bridged Spoiler wing | Wing type spoiler improves aerodynamics for maximum speed and faster corner exits. |
| UBOUnder Body Optimization | A wider coverage of undercover enhances underbody air flow. This reinforcement in aerodynamics help improve high speed driving balance. | |
| LWLow & Wide design | Semi glossy black pearl mask, front lip spoiler, rear diffuser and wider tire maximize ELANTRA N’s low and wide stance. | |
| LSPLowest Seat Position | With N light bucket seat and 10mm lowered seating position, a deeper connection between the driver and vehicle is formed. The overall center of gravity is also lowered. | |
| RSRRear Seat Roominess | Carrying over the excellence of the base model, ELANTRA N boasts the most spacious rear seat roominess among its competitors. The N light sports bucket seat reduces 50mm of seatback thickness compared to the base model, securing an additional rear seat roominess. | |
| Tire | WTWider Tire | The ELANTRA N is the first N model to be offered Michelin Pilot Sport 4S 245/35ZR 19-inch tires. These high performance tires are offered as standard, providing superior grip in every phase of cornering. |
| Intake / Infotainment | LDILightweight Direct Intake | The air intake system has been restructured for better airflow into the engine, reducing the air pressure by 10.6%. This also reduces overall weight by 895g. |
| NINew Infotainment system | Enhances readability and visibility of various driving information. It also helps track the driver’s current location on track and automatically records lap time in real time. | |
| HNAHyundai N App | The Hyundai N App saves and analyzes every aspect of driving data from speed, lap time to g-force and more. It also allows drivers to compare driving performance with others, providing the opportunity to learn and grow as an Nthusiast. (Currently available only in S.Korea) |