2022 Hyundai Elantra N Line

A best-buy according to the experts, the Hyundai Elantra N Line is holding its own in the compact sedan world. And with good reason. It is generously equipped, well-designed and, in the case of our Elantra N Line model, a blast to drive. But we are confident that the upcoming Elantra N will be better still. The crazy gearheads at Napleton News are always ready for a way to exercise our right feet, so we wasted no time in getting behind the wheel. Here’s our report.

What is it about the Hyundai Elantra N Line?

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra is seven generations old and is almost as large as its Hyundai Sonata big brother. It’s available in several flavors, from the base SE, SEL and the Elantra Blue Hybrid for starters. Our test model is the Elantra N Line, which you shouldn’t confuse with the sports-oriented Elantra N. The Elantra N will be available later this year.

Just because our tester is the Elantra N Line doesn’t mean it ain’t got chops. Au contraire, mon ami, it’s pretty stout on its own, thank you very much. Power for the N Line comes from a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4 that produces 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. It is standard with a slick-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission. Those who don’t choose to exercise their left leg can take advantage of the available 7-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission. Added bonus: The automated 7-speed provides better mileage too!

As an aside, if you can wait until later in 2022, put your order in now for the upcoming Elantra N. It burns even hotter, making 276 horsepower and 289 lb-ft of torque. It is available with either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic. Its N button allows an overboost mode to add another ten horsepower for up to 20 seconds.

How does the N Line look?

The Hyundai Elantra N Line takes a bold step away from other run-of-the-mill sedans to cut an imposing figure. Start with the grille. Finished in all black, it includes an N Line badge with geometric air intakes for added visual excitement. Did we mention the e-word? The most exciting part of the Elantra N Line is the side panels with their Zorro-like z-cuts that offer a modern look at a very creased world.

Exclusive alloy wheels help to set the N Line apart from the run-of-the-mill Elantra models. A long, swept-back fastback that leads to a decklid spoiler. There’s more geometry in the rear deck and fascia, which finishes nicely with a pair of chrome, er, exhaust finishers.

What about inside the Elantra?

Inside the N Line, passengers will find nicely bolstered, fabric-covered seating. They provided all-day comfort, which was good enough for the round trip from West Palm Beach to Miami. The rear seat offers plenty of legroom, although it may not be the best place for taller passengers.

The driver-centric cabin lays everything out where a driver typically needs it. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto offer smartphone mirroring on the 10.25-inch infotainment display screens. Rear seat legroom checks in at 38.0 inches, which closes in on midsize sedan measurements. The trunk space is less than accommodating 14.8 cubic feet.

Behind the wheel of the Elantra N Line

Our N Line tester featured the 1.6-line turbocharged inline-4, which is powered to the tune of 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. A seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission mates to the front-wheel drive powertrain, that offers quick shifts and better fuel economy than the more-fun-to-drive six-speed manual gearbox.

The strut-style suspension in front makes a good pairing for the multilink rear suspension. The combination provides excellent tracking ability and a high fun-to-drive feeling. The Elantra N Line feels at home on the highway and the racetrack.

Acceleration was plentiful with the 1.6-liter, while the 2.0-liter would be even more plentiful. But short of being the actual Elantra N, the N Line comes close thanks to a tap on the dashboard-mounted drive mode selector. Give it a tap to engage new engine mapping into sport mode. The result is a sudden burst of energy that provides an extra kick into your seat.

It’s a satisfying bit of oomph that ends up not costing a whole lot of money.

N Line Specifications