Starting at $33,245
9/10 C/D RATING
Specs
Photos
Hyundai
9/10 C/D RATING
Specs
Photos
- Highs Punchy turbo four, more comfortable ride than Veloster N, crisp handling.
- Lows Love-it-or-hate-it styling, firm seats, sunroof only offered with the automatic.
- Verdict The Elantra N takes everything we love about the hatchback Veloster N and adds a roomier back seat and fresher styling.
Overview
Hyundai is expanding its N performance sub-brand with fire-breathing version of its new Elantra compact car. The 2022 Elantra N is powered by a 286-hp version of the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder from the spunky Veloster N hatchback. Buyers can choose from either a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic. We've grown quite fond of the Veloster N during its stay with us for a 40,000-mile long-term test, and the Elantra's upscale vibe adds another layer of desirability. We put the Elantra N on our 2022 Editors' Choice list because it has what it takes to challenge established sport compact cars such as the Subaru WRX, the Volkswagen Jetta GLI, and the upcoming Toyota GR Corolla.
What's New for 2022?
The 2022 Elantra N is an all-new model in Hyundai's budding performance-oriented N lineup.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The price of the 2022 Hyundai Elantra N starts at $33,245.
The Elantra N comes only one way, and that's basically fully loaded. A host of performance, technology, and safety features are standard and help to carry on Hyundai's value-packed business model. The only choices offered are exterior colors and either the manual or automatic transmission. As lovers of stick shifts, our recommendation is the standard six-speed manual, but we won't judge you if you decide to go with the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Hyundai's new sport compact sedan inherits its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder from the Veloster N hatchback. That engine makes a stout 275 horsepower in the Veloster N, but thanks to an overboost feature the company calls N Grin Shift, the Elantra N boasts a 286-hp rating. That gives the Elantra N a big power advantage over the Jetta GLI. An eight-speed automatic is available but we're happy to report a six-speed manual is standard. During our brief test drive, we noted aggressive throttle response, crisp handling, and a sonorous exhaust note, all of which bodes well for the production model. The Elantra N's longer wheelbase gives it a more compliant ride than the Veloster N but it still delivers the surefootedness we look for in a sports sedan. When we get a chance to take the Elantra N to our test track, we'll update this story with test results.
View Photos
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
According to the EPA, the most fuel efficient version of the Elantra N is the one with the six-speed manual, which earned ratings of 22 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. Going with the automatic drops those numbers to 20 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. When we get a chance to test the new performance sedan, we'll put it through our 75-mph highway fuel economy route and update this story with results. For more information about the Elantra N's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The regular Elantra's dramatically restyled cabin has a decidedly co*ckpit-like look and feel which translates perfectly to the racier Elantra N. The sportier-looking ambiance is enhanced by sport seats with aggressive bolsters, metal-accented pedals, and a smattering of N badges. Rear seat passenger space is more generous here than in the Veloster N and the trunk offers more space for cargo. A sunroof is available, but only if you get the automatic transmission.
View Photos
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Elantra's all-digital dashboard carries over to the N model, with a large 10.3-inch digital gauge display sharing real estate with a 10.3-inch infotainment display that's angled slightly toward the driver. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, in-dash navigation, and a Wi-Fi hotspot are all likely to be standard features.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
A host of driver-assistance technologies will likely be on the menu as standard features. For more information about the Elantra N's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features are likely to include:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
- Standard blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
The Elantra N offers Hyundai's now-legendary 10-year/100,000 mile warranty. The only other brand to offer such a warranty is Kia, but Hyundai's models come with three years of complimentary maintenance as an added perk.
- Limited warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles
- Complimentary maintenance is covered for 3 years or 36,000 miles
Specifications
Specifications
2022 Hyundai Elantra N
Vehicle Type: front-engine, front-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan
PRICE (C/D EST)
Base: $30,000
ENGINE
turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, direct fuel injection
Displacement: 122 in3, 1998 cm3
Power: 276 or 286 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque: 289 lb-ft @ 2100 rpm
TRANSMISSIONS
6-speed manual, 8-speed dual-clutch automatic
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 107.1 in
Length: 184.1 in
Width: 71.9 in
Height: 55.7 in
Passenger Volume: 101 ft3
Trunk Volume: 14 ft3
Curb Weight (C/D est): 3200–3300 lb
PERFORMANCE (C/D EST)
60 mph: 4.8–5.3 sec
100 mph: 12.2–12.7 sec
1/4-Mile: 13.4–13.9 sec
Top Speed: 155 mph
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/City/Highway: 23–25/20–22/30–31 mpg
More Features and Specs
Shopping Tools
What's My Car Worth?
Car and Driver values are calculated from the same Black Book® data dealers use to appraise vehicles.
Get Estimate
Insurance Marketplace
See what you can save on car insurance.
Learn More
Auto Loans & Financing
Our finance experts answer any questions you may have about financing a vehicle.
Learn More
Similar Vehicles
2024 Honda Civic Type R
10
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$45,890
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: The 2024 Honda Civic Type R is 315-horsepower of absolute fury, but its compact size and outsized comfort make it especially easy to live with. Learn More
Honda Civic Type R Model Years
- View 2024 Civic Type R DetailsStarting at $45,890 · 10/10
- View 2023 Civic Type R DetailsStarting at $44,890 · 10/10
2025 Honda Civic Si
10
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$31,045
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: A cut above the everyday Honda Civic, the 2025 Civic Si is an affordable enthusiast's choice that's permanently set in sport mode. Learn More
Honda Civic Si Model Years
- View 2025 Civic Si DetailsStarting at $31,045 · 10/10
- View 2024 Civic Si DetailsStarting at $30,195 · 10/10
- View 2023 Civic Si DetailsStarting at $29,895 · 10/10
2025 Toyota GR Corolla
9.5
/10
C/D RATING
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: Toyota has turned its Gazoo Racing performance division loose to apply the tuner treatment to the Corolla hatchback—and the result is a 300-hp mini monster. Learn More
Toyota GR Corolla Model Years
- View 2025 GR Corolla DetailsStarting at $38,000 est · 9.5/10
- View 2024 GR Corolla DetailsStarting at $37,635 · 9.5/10
- View 2023 GR Corolla DetailsStarting at $36,995 · 10/10
2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI
9
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$33,190
EPA MPG
27 combined
C/D SAYS: The original hot hatch blends a torquey turbo four with a terrific chassis and a practical four-door hatch layout that continue its legacy of affordable fun. Learn More
Volkswagen Golf GTI Model Years
- View 2024 Golf GTI DetailsStarting at $33,190 · 9/10
- View 2023 Golf GTI DetailsStarting at $31,625 · 9/10
2025 Volkswagen Golf R
9
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$48,000 est
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: The 2025 Golf R continues its mission of bringing the heat to the hot-hatch segment without compromising its trademark practical compact four-door format. Learn More
Volkswagen Golf R Model Years
- View 2025 Golf R DetailsStarting at $48,000 est · 9/10
- View 2024 Golf R DetailsStarting at $46,890 · 9/10
- View 2023 Golf R DetailsStarting at $45,835 · 9/10
2025 Volkswagen Jetta GLI
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$33,940
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: There are few small cars like the performance-oriented 2025 Volkswagen Jetta GLI left in the car market, and we're thankful it's still here. Learn More
Volkswagen Jetta GLI Model Years
- View 2025 Jetta GLI DetailsStarting at $33,940 · 8.5/10
- View 2024 Jetta GLI DetailsStarting at $29,310 · 8.5/10
- View 2023 Jetta GLI DetailsStarting at $32,680 · 8.5/10
2025 Subaru WRX
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$34,000 est
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: The 2025 Subaru WRX still provides boy-racer thrills, but now with a bit more refinement that some fans may not like. Learn More
Subaru WRX Model Years
- View 2025 WRX DetailsStarting at $34,000 est · 8/10
- View 2024 WRX DetailsStarting at $33,855 · 8/10
- View 2023 WRX DetailsStarting at $31,625 · 8/10
2024 Mini Cooper JCW
6
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$36,395
EPA MPG
26–28 combined
C/D SAYS: The Mini Cooper JCW is a hoot and a half, but it could stand to add a skosh more practicality. Learn More
Mini Cooper JCW Model Years
- View 2024 Cooper JCW DetailsStarting at $36,395 · 6/10
- View 2023 Cooper JCW DetailsStarting at $33,895 · 6/10
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
More From Hyundai
2024 Hyundai Palisade
9.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$38,045
EPA MPG
21–22 combined
C/D SAYS: With a high-class cabin, a smooth ride, and space for the whole family, the three-row Hyundai Palisade is one of the best in the mid-size SUV segment. Learn More
Hyundai Palisade Model Years
- View 2024 Palisade DetailsStarting at $38,045 · 9.5/10
- View 2023 Palisade DetailsStarting at $37,235 · 9.5/10
- View 2022 Palisade DetailsStarting at $34,895 · 9.5/10
- View 2021 Palisade DetailsStarting at $33,860 · 9.5/10
- View 2020 Palisade DetailsStarting at $33,115 · 9.5/10
2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid
9
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$38,365
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: Hyundai has rebooted the 2024 Santa Fe Hybrid as a boxy, three-row SUV with a more stylish cabin and rugged design cues, but it retains its soft-riding nature. Learn More
2025 Hyundai Kona
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$25,745
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: With futuristic styling, tidy dimensions, decent performance, and good value, the 2025 Kona is a spunky urban runabout in a right-sized package. Learn More
Hyundai Kona Model Years
- View 2025 Kona DetailsStarting at $25,745 · 8.5/10
- View 2024 Kona DetailsStarting at $25,645 · 8.5/10
- View 2023 Kona DetailsStarting at $23,475 · 9/10
- View 2022 Kona DetailsStarting at $22,595 · 9/10
- View 2021 Kona DetailsStarting at $21,685 · 9/10
- View 2020 Kona DetailsStarting at $21,440 · 9/10
- View 2019 Kona DetailsStarting at $21,085 · 8.5/10
- View 2018 Kona DetailsStarting at N/A · 8/10
2025 Hyundai Nexo
6
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$63,000 est
EPA Est. Range
N/A
C/D SAYS: Alongside its unique hydrogen powertrain, the Nexo nails the core SUV competencies with a spacious interior and plenty of tech. Learn More
Hyundai Nexo Model Years
- View 2025 Nexo DetailsStarting at $63,000 est · 6/10
- View 2024 Nexo DetailsStarting at $62,000 est · 6/10
- View 2023 Nexo DetailsStarting at $61,470 · 6/10
- View 2022 Nexo DetailsStarting at $60,730 · 6/10
- View 2021 Nexo DetailsStarting at $60,120 · 6/10
- View 2020 Nexo DetailsStarting at $59,910 · 6/10
- View 2019 Nexo DetailsStarting at N/A · 6/10
2025 Hyundai Ioniq 6
9.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$38,900
EPA Est. Range
240–342 miles
C/D SAYS: The Hyundai Ioniq 6 EV blends solid range estimates and fast-charging capability with a very unique style. Learn More
Hyundai Ioniq 6 Model Years
- View 2025 Ioniq 6 DetailsStarting at $38,900 · 9.5/10
- View 2024 Ioniq 6 DetailsStarting at $38,650 · 10/10
- View 2023 Ioniq 6 DetailsStarting at $42,715 · 10/10
2025 Hyundai Kona Electric
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$34,270
EPA Est. Range
200–261 miles
C/D SAYS: One of the more affordable EVs currently available, the Kona Electric packs a ton of features and style for the price. Learn More
Hyundai Kona Electric Model Years
- View 2025 Kona Electric DetailsStarting at $34,270 · 8/10
- View 2024 Kona Electric DetailsStarting at $34,070 · 8/10
- View 2023 Kona Electric DetailsStarting at $34,885 · 8/10
- View 2022 Kona Electric DetailsStarting at $35,295 · 8/10
- View 2021 Kona Electric DetailsStarting at $38,575 · 8.5/10
- View 2020 Kona Electric DetailsStarting at $38,330 · 9/10
- View 2019 Kona Electric DetailsStarting at N/A · 9/10
2025 Hyundai Ioniq 9
Starting at
$50,000 est
EPA Est. Range
N/A
C/D SAYS: The Hyundai Seven concept previews an electric SUV called Ioniq 9that's similar to the three-row Palisade, but with a lounge-like interior and other innovations. Learn More
2025 Hyundai Venue
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$22,000 est
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: The feature-packed Venue SUV, with its tidy exterior dimensions and spacious cabin, makes for an affordable runabout. Learn More
Hyundai Venue Model Years
- View 2025 Venue DetailsStarting at $22,000 est · 8/10
- View 2024 Venue DetailsStarting at $21,295 · 8/10
- View 2023 Venue DetailsStarting at $20,985 · 8/10
- View 2022 Venue DetailsStarting at $20,295 · 8/10
- View 2021 Venue DetailsStarting at $19,935 · 8/10
- View 2020 Venue DetailsStarting at $18,525 · 8/10
2024 Hyundai Elantra
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$22,775
EPA MPG
31–54 combined
C/D SAYS: When it comes to daily driving duty, the Hyundai Elantra is a pragmatic but stylish choice, as it offers good fuel economy and plenty of standard tech. Learn More
Hyundai Elantra Model Years
- View 2024 Elantra DetailsStarting at $22,775 · 8.5/10
- View 2023 Elantra DetailsStarting at $22,065 · 8.5/10
- View 2022 Elantra DetailsStarting at $21,295 · 8.5/10
- View 2021 Elantra DetailsStarting at $20,655 · 8.5/10
- View 2020 Elantra DetailsStarting at $20,295 · 6/10
- View 2019 Elantra DetailsStarting at $18,130 · 7/10
- View 2018 Elantra DetailsStarting at N/A · 7/10
- View 2017 Elantra DetailsStarting at N/A · 7/10
2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5
10
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$44,000 est
EPA Est. Range
N/A
C/D SAYS: Stylish, value-packed, and fun to drive, the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a winner of an EV SUV that's already earned several Car and Driver accolades. Learn More
Hyundai Ioniq 5 Model Years
- View 2025 Ioniq 5 DetailsStarting at $44,000 est · 10/10
- View 2024 Ioniq 5 DetailsStarting at $43,195 · 10/10
- View 2023 Ioniq 5 DetailsStarting at $42,785 · 10/10
- View 2022 Ioniq 5 DetailsStarting at $41,245 · 9.5/10
2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N
10
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$67,495
EPA Est. Range
221 miles
C/D SAYS: The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is the high-performance variant of electric Ioniq 5 SUV, and it's capable of pumping out a tire-straining 641 horsepower. Learn More
2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$34,510
EPA MPGe
80 combined
C/D SAYS: Freshened styling and a revised infotainment system help the Tucson Hybrid maintain its status as one of the best values in the hybrid compact SUV segment. Learn More
Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Model Years
- View 2025 Tucson Hybrid DetailsStarting at $34,510 · 8.5/10
- View 2024 Tucson Hybrid DetailsStarting at $33,950 · 8.5/10
- View 2023 Tucson Hybrid DetailsStarting at $32,685 · 8.5/10
- View 2022 Tucson Hybrid DetailsStarting at $31,045 · 9/10
