2021 Hyundai Elantra N Line Boasts Familiar Engine, Extra Character
After launching the completely redesigned 2021 Hyundai Elantra for regular folks and the all-new Elantra Hybrid for those with fuel economy in mind, the Korean automaker is at it again, this time aiming to please fans of sporty compact cars.
Forget the Elantra Sport; say hello to the new 2021 Hyundai Elantra N Line!
- Also: Another Hyundai Bites the Dust: Farewell, Elantra GT
- Also: Five Things to Know About the 2021 Hyundai Elantra
Featuring a much racier and more aggressive exterior, this Elantra model stands out with an exclusive take on Hyundai’s cascading grille (also punctuated by an “N Line” badge) and a redesigned lower front bumper that incorporates new air intakes particularly in the corners.
On the sides, the two-tone 18-inch N Line wheels are the main draw, but don’t miss the subtle side skirts, window trim and mirror caps all finished in gloss black. In the rear, the black spoiler and full-width diffuser emphasize the car’s athletic stance. The twin tailpipes are clustered together on the right side.
Pop the hood, however, and you’ll find the same turbocharged 1.6-litre engine that motivates the current Elantra Sport (201 hp, 195 lb-ft). Transmission choices are carried over, too, including the six-speed manual and seven-speed dual-clutch unit with paddle shifters.
Somehow, though, the Elantra N Line proves sportier on the road and the track. Hyundai says it made several mechanical improvements to the suspension to increase stiffness for a gripping performance. The front brake discs are larger, as well. We look forward to a test drive to validate the product of these changes.
Hyundai is also introducing N performance parts for those who want to further customize Hyundai N Line models to suit their preferences. Alas, these are available only in Korea for now.
Inside, highlights include the perforated leather-wrapped N steering wheel with metallic spokes, N sport seats with leather bolsters, gearshift with metal accents and leather inserts, alloy pedals and race-inspired instruments (check out the redline with a checkered flag motif on the tachometer).
Naturally, like all other 2021 Elantra models, the new N Line comes with an array of driver assist, safety and convenience features including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, High Beam Assist, Driver Attention Warning and Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist with Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist. In addition, Elantra N Line owners get a Hyundai Digital Key, plus wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
Set to go on sale by the end of the year, the 2021 Hyundai Elantra N Line will go head-to-head with the Honda Civic Si, Volkswagen Jetta GLI and Mazda3 GT Turbo. If you want more space and power, Hyundai will later add the Sonata N Line featuring a turbocharged 2.5-litre engine that should deliver around 275 horsepower.
