The Hyundai Elantra N has rightfully earned its stripes as a thrilling performance sedan, captivating enthusiasts with its energetic demeanor and surprising velocity. It even gives more expensive rear-wheel-drive coupes a run for their money, boasting a character and capability that punch well above its weight. However, stepping down a notch to the N Line version brings a different reality. While sharing the sporty moniker, the Elantra N Line finds itself more aligned with the standard Elantra than its full-fledged N sibling. This isn’t to say the N Line is without merit, but those seeking the raw thrills of the Elantra N will find this a considerable departure.
Image depicting the 2024 Hyundai Elantra N Line review badge, showcasing the sporty branding and the source of the review.
Positioned in the price spectrum between the base Elantra and the high-performance Elantra N, the N Line starts at around $30,000, placing it squarely against competitors like the popular Honda Civic Si. On paper, the Hyundai Elantra N Line boasts 201 horsepower from its turbocharged 1.6-liter engine, a figure strikingly similar to the Civic Si’s 200 horsepower. However, focusing solely on horsepower figures doesn’t paint the whole picture, especially when discussing real-world performance and the crucial Hyundai Elantra N 0-60 time.
Delving into the actual driving experience reveals a performance reality that might not align with expectations set by the ‘N’ badge. Despite the 201 horsepower, the Elantra N Line doesn’t consistently deliver a sensation of rapid acceleration when you fully depress the accelerator pedal. There’s a noticeable delay in power delivery due to turbo lag. Once the turbo spools, the resulting acceleration isn’t the forceful surge one might anticipate from a car marketed with sporting intentions. The Hyundai Elantra N 0-60 time reflects this, clocking in at nearly eight seconds. This figure is a full second slower than the Honda Civic Si, highlighting a tangible difference in outright acceleration. While the engine exhibits decent low-end torque, allowing it to maintain highway speeds comfortably, even on inclines, the lack of a significant power surge when downshifting to access the “meat” of the powerband is apparent. In terms of raw speed and that all-important Hyundai Elantra N 0-60 metric, the N Line’s performance is more aligned with its non-N siblings.
Exterior view of the 2024 Hyundai Elantra N Line showcasing its sporty design and front grille.
One element that differentiates the N Line from more mundane Elantra models is its transmission. While a manual transmission would be the purist’s choice for a sporty car, the N Line offers a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). This is a step above the continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) and traditional automatics found in many competitors. However, it’s worth noting that the true Elantra N benefits from a more advanced eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, lauded for its performance across various driving scenarios. In contrast, the seven-speed DCT in the N Line, while providing crisp upshifts, introduces some compromises in everyday drivability. The throttle response can feel heavy and somewhat unresponsive initially. Pressing the pedal often yields a moment of hesitation before the car reacts. This behavior seems rooted in the transmission’s struggle to smoothly engage first gear from a standstill. The result can be either sluggish initial movement or an abrupt lurch if the driver applies too much throttle too quickly. This issue is not present in the Elantra N with its superior DCT. The N Line’s transmission can, at times, mimic the awkwardness of a novice driver learning to operate a manual gearbox. While drivers can adapt to this quirkiness, it requires a level of patience and careful throttle modulation when starting from a stop, which feels out of place in a modern car. The absence of a manual transmission option in the N Line further underscores its positioning as a step below the true performance-oriented models, although thankfully, a manual is still available in the full-fledged Elantra N and the Civic Si.
Interior shot of the 2024 Hyundai Elantra N Line showcasing the dashboard and sporty seats.
In terms of handling, the Elantra N Line demonstrates improved cornering capabilities compared to a base Elantra. However, it doesn’t bridge the gap to the dynamic prowess of the Elantra N. The handling is best described as moderately enhanced, offering only a marginal increase in lateral grip over the standard Elantra. The steering is commendable for its accurate responses and well-judged weighting, but the N Line doesn’t inspire aggressive cornering. While it can navigate turns at speeds that might unsettle passengers, this is a trait shared even by less sporty vehicles. Lacking the refined balance of true sports sedans and the Elantra N, the N Line tends towards understeer sooner, without the benefit of strong front-end grip or a limited-slip differential to effectively manage power delivery and pull the car out of corners. Furthermore, the lane departure control system can be overly intrusive, intervening and tugging at the steering wheel prematurely, even within the lane markings. This system’s early intervention, intended as a safety feature, can become more of a distraction and even feel counterproductive when attempting smoother cornering lines. Disabling this feature becomes almost essential for a more natural and enjoyable driving experience.
Image highlighting the rear passenger space of the 2024 Hyundai Elantra N Line, emphasizing its practicality.
Considering its price point, the interior of the Elantra N Line is perfectly acceptable and functional. It represents a notable improvement in material quality compared to older Hyundai models. The touch surfaces feel substantial, and the car exhibits a solid build, remaining rattle-free even on uneven road surfaces. Rear passenger space is generous, ensuring passenger comfort. Compared to more basic sedans, the Elantra N Line’s interior environment is a step above, offering a more open and contemporary design. The leather-wrapped steering wheel adds a premium touch, and the N Line-specific seats provide adequate support, although their visual appeal might outweigh their actual performance-oriented bolstering.
Ride quality remains comfortable on most road surfaces, and wind noise is effectively suppressed for a vehicle in this price range, contributing to overall refinement. Fuel economy is reasonable, averaging around 28 MPG in typical driving, which is neither exceptional nor overly thirsty. The infotainment system is straightforward and user-friendly, arguably more so than the systems found in higher-end Hyundai and Genesis models. Apple CarPlay is included, although wired connectivity is required for this model year, which is a minor inconvenience in an increasingly wireless world. For drivers seeking an affordable and stylish daily driver with a hint of sportiness, the Elantra N Line fulfills this role adequately. However, it often feels like a diluted version of a true performance car, lacking genuine sporting credentials where it arguably should deliver more.
A side profile shot of the Hyundai Elantra N Line, emphasizing its sporty silhouette and design elements.
In conclusion, if ultimate performance is the goal, the Elantra N Line is not a substitute for the Elantra N. It’s a significant step down in driving dynamics and overall thrill. For everyday commuting, the standard Elantra might even be a more agreeable choice due to its smoother throttle response and less temperamental dual-clutch transmission. The Elantra N Line’s most significant challenge arises when juxtaposed with competitors like the Honda Civic Si, which offers a more engaging and quicker driving experience for a similar price. The Civic Si has long been a benchmark in the affordable performance segment, and it retains that position. However, for those willing to stretch their budget by an additional $5,000 to reach the realm of the true Elantra N, the substantial leap in performance and driving enjoyment is well worth considering. The Elantra N transforms the Elantra from a stylish and comfortable sedan into a genuinely exciting and capable performance machine.
2024 Hyundai Elantra N Line
As-tested price: $29,825
Pros: Enhanced aesthetics, relative sportiness compared to base Elantra
Cons: Sportiness is still limited, dual-clutch transmission can be frustrating at times.
More Photos of the 2024 Hyundai Elantra N Line
Close-up of the 2024 Hyundai Elantra N Line seats, highlighting their design and bolstering.
Detailed view of the 2024 Hyundai Elantra N Line interior, focusing on the dashboard and infotainment screen.
Another perspective of the Hyundai Elantra N Line interior showcasing the overall cabin layout.
Interior review image of the Hyundai Elantra N Line emphasizing the quality of materials and design.
Another interior review shot of the Hyundai Elantra N Line highlighting specific interior elements and features.
Review image of the Hyundai Elantra N Line capturing its overall design and sporty stance.
Exterior image of the Hyundai Elantra N Line showcasing its rear design and taillights.
