Performance cars typically come with hefty price tags, but the 2025 Hyundai Elantra N proves that you can enjoy an exhilarating driving experience without breaking the bank. With its sharp handling, striking design, and track-ready features, this vehicle offers much more than its affordable price indicates.
Under the hood, the Elantra N houses a turbocharged engine that provides rapid acceleration and an exhilarating exhaust roar. The precise steering, well-engineered suspension, and standard manual transmission offer driving enthusiasts the engaging experience they desire. Inside, you’ll find comfortable sport seats complemented by modern technology and a design focused on performance without sacrificing comfort.
Priced at just under $35,000, few new cars can match this sedan’s combination of speed, features, and overall value. Whether you’re navigating winding country roads or handling your daily commute, the Elantra N demonstrates that genuine driving pleasure doesn’t have to come with a luxury-car price tag. Here’s why this car stands out as the best budget-friendly thrill ride of the year.
Hyundai’s Performance Journey
Hyundai has been making waves in the performance car segment relatively recently, debuting its first N-badged model, the i30 N hatch, in 2016. Since then, the brand has consistently impressed, with the Elantra N being its crowning achievement to date.
2025 Trims and Pricing
Model: Elantra N
Starting MSRP: $34,250
While the Elantra N comes close to the $35,000 mark, it arrives well-equipped, minimizing additional costs for upgrades. For fans of automatic transmissions, an extra $1,500 gets you a six-speed automatic option, as the manual is standard. In a landscape where most sporty sedans are priced around $40,000 or more, the Elantra N offers a competitive edge. The only close competitors in value are the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Jetta GLI.
Recent Upgrades
The 2025 Elantra N arrives unchanged from the previous year, following a significant refresh for 2024. Hyundai introduced sleek new front and rear bumpers, updated lighting elements, and an all-black “H” badge. Inside, drivers will appreciate the enhanced seating, new steering wheel design, and improved shift knob.
Performance also sees minor improvements with updated software, reinforced engine mounts, and upgraded suspension components.
Comprehensive Warranties and Maintenance
- Limited Warranty: 5 Years or 60,000 Miles
- Powertrain Warranty: 10 Years or 100,000 Miles
- Complimentary Maintenance: 3 Years or 36,000 Miles
Hyundai excels in after-sales value with superior coverage. Its industry-leading powertrain warranty reflects a strong commitment to quality, and the complimentary three years of maintenance is exceptional for this category.
Performance Specs That Impress
Engine: 2.0-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four
Transmission: 6-Speed Manual or 8-Speed DCT
Horsepower: 276 HP
Torque: 289 LB-FT
Drive: Front-Wheel Drive
0-60 MPH: 4.8 Seconds
Top Speed: 155 MPH
The Elantra N boasts a robust four-cylinder engine sourced from the Veloster N, discontinued in 2022. Its base horsepower of 276 can temporarily spike to 286 via the N Grin Shift feature for quick launches. Though the automatic is a touch quicker, many still prefer the engagement of the manual.
Front-wheel drive may draw criticism, but drivers appreciate the Elantra N’s sharp throttle response and handling, not to mention its delightful exhaust note. Comfortable enough for daily use, it doesn’t compromise on performance.
Fuel Efficiency
Manual: 21 MPG City / 29 MPG Highway / 24 MPG Combined
Automatic: 20 MPG City / 27 MPG Highway / 23 MPG Combined
While not the most fuel-efficient option in its class, the Elantra N is relatively easy on the wallet at the pump. There’s a minor efficiency difference between the manual and automatic, particularly during highway driving, but it’s unlikely to significantly sway your decision.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
The 2025 Elantra N comes with a solid suite of safety and driver assistance features, including:
- Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
- High-Beam Assist
- Rear Occupant Alert
However, it’s worth noting that adaptive cruise control is not available in U.S. models, a missing feature that might impact its competitiveness.
Interior Comfort and Design
Hyundai embraces innovative cabin designs, especially in the Elantra N. The already sporty interior of the base model translates beautifully to the performance variant, making it both practical and visually appealing.
Interior Dimensions
- First Row Headroom: 39.9 Inches
- First Row Legroom: 42.3 Inches
- Second Row Headroom: 37.3 Inches
- Second Row Legroom: 38 Inches
- Cargo Capacity: 14.2 Cubic Feet
Offering more space than many rivals, the Elantra N ensures that even taller passengers can sit comfortably. Its trunk space exceeds that of the now-discontinued Veloster N it replaces, enhancing practicality.
Hyundai’s cockpit-style layout adds to the impressive ambiance, with sporty elements like metal pedals and numerous N badges enhancing the performance character of the interior.
Infotainment and Technology
Equipped with a digital cockpit, the Elantra N features dual 10.3-inch screens embedded in a single bezel for the gauge cluster and infotainment system. The interfaces are user-friendly and responsive.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported, though the absence of wireless connectivity is surprising since it’s available in other Elantra models. The Elantra N offers a wireless charging pad and a premium Bose sound system, rounding out its tech offerings.
In conclusion, the 2025 Hyundai Elantra N stands as a formidable option for anyone seeking an accessible yet thrilling driving experience. It defies expectations, marrying performance with everyday practicality, proving that exhilarating rides don’t always come at a premium.
