Hyundai has recently revealed an updated version of the Elantra N with a redesigned grille, new bumpers, and a weight reduction of 33 pounds with the new wheels. However, there are already plans for the next generation of the high-performance sedan. A new gasoline-powered N version was announced almost a year ago, and in a recent interview with the Australian magazine CarExpert, Executive Technical Advisor Albert Biermann practically confirmed that the next car will feature a larger engine.
“Before I left Namyang, I made sure the Elantra can go on with the 2.5 turbo. It fits in there and everything. Australia is safe, the U.S. is safe, but someone needs to make a decision, right? And markets other than Australia, forget them. They’re all dreaming of the EV cloud, EV heaven, they don’t care for combustion cars.”
The mention of leaving Namyang refers to Biermann’s previous role as Executive Vice President and Head of Vehicle Testing & High-Performance Development. After 31 years at BMW, Albert Biermann joined Hyundai in April 2015, and three years later, he was appointed President and Head of R&D division at the Hyundai Motor Group.
Biermann played a pivotal role in the establishment of the N division before retiring as head of R&D in late 2021. Since then, he has served as Executive Technical Advisor, based in Europe.
The current Elantra N is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine generating 276 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque. The larger 2.5-liter unit produces 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft in the Sonata N Line, while the 2024 Genesis G70 offers 300 hp.
Additional updates to the 2024 Elantra N include revised software for the power steering and a rear-suspension insulator that uses urethane instead of rubber to improve damping. Hyundai also modified the tire pressure, installed a new, low-friction universal joint, and adjusted the gearbox for a more direct feeling. The Elantra N continues to be offered with a six-speed manual or an eight-speed, dual-clutch automatic.
The 2024 Hyundai Elantra N will be available at dealerships in January, with pricing yet to be announced. The outgoing model was offered at a starting price of $32,900.