Hyundai reveals the new Elantra N

Hyundai N has unveiled the new Elantra N (sold as Avante N in Korea).

The Elantra N's front fascia is said to take inspiration from the battle-ready appearance of a driver's race helmet. A lip spoiler at the front that runs low across the lower part of the bumper also conveys a low-slung stance with performance intent.

The car also gets an 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.

At the rear, a prominent, N-only wing-type spoiler, along with rear diffuser, help control airflow to support optimal aerodynamic performance. This pairs with an inverted triangle type N-only reflector and dual single muffler tip, reminiscent of a Formula One car, to neatly finish the Elantra N's high-performance image.

The Elantra N is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine with a 52-mm turbine wheel (5mm larger in diameter than before). The new wheel combines with an optimisation of the shape and material of the cylinders, improving both the performance and durability of the engine. The result, Hyundai states, is an engine that is capable of maintaining its maximum output from about 5,500rpm for brisk acceleration.

This engine is paired with an eight-speed wet Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT), delivering maximum output of 276bhp and maximum torque of 392Nm. An N Grin Shift (NGS) feature however, will temporarily raise the boost pressure, enhancing output up to 286bhp, and allowing the Elantra N achieves zero to 100 km/h sprint of just 5.3 seconds.

The Elantra N's spirited performance is further supported by an N Corner Carving electronic Differential, Variable Exhaust Valve System and Launch Control as standard. For DCT-equipped models, NGS, N Power Shift and N Track Sense Shift are provided as standard features to maximise driving pleasure.

The Elantra N also utilises 360mm brake discs, equipped with high-friction material pads to ensure best-in-class braking performance for high-performance vehicles.

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 optimised 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.

A variable exhaust valve system, will deliver the N brand's distinctive 'popcorn' and 'bang' sounds, and 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, the Elantra N is the first N vehicle to use 245-size Michelin PS4S tyress on 19-inch wheels in support of dynamic driving performance.

In the cabin, the Elantra N's advanced infotainment system is equipped with a graphic interface that display's information needed for high-performance circuit driving, such as oil and coolant temperatures, torque and turbo pressure on a dedicated cluster.

Special N seats also sport reinforced bolsters, so that even if strong lateral acceleration occurs during cornering, the driver is firmly supported, allowing him/her to maintain a stable driving posture at all times. In addition, an optional N bucket seat with N emblem lighting that is lower by 10mm has been, designed for customers who pursue high-performance drivability.

The N light bucket seat reduces the seat back thickness by 50mm compared to the base model, further highlighting best-in-class rear seat roominess and practicality.