Elantra Sport Vs. Elantra N: Which Performance Sedan Wins?

by Alex Braham 59 views

Hey car enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into a comparison that's been on many minds: the Elantra Sport versus the Elantra N. Both offer a sporty driving experience, but they cater to different levels of performance craving. So, which one should you choose? Let's break it down!

Performance and Engine Specs

When we talk about performance, the heart of the matter is undoubtedly the engine. The Elantra Sport, typically found in models from 2017-2020, boasts a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine. This little powerhouse generally cranks out around 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. It's peppy, responsive, and makes for a fun daily driver with a bit of extra punch. You'll often find it paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission (yay for stick shifts!) or a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) for quick and efficient gear changes.

Now, let's step up to the Elantra N. This is where things get seriously exciting. The Elantra N features a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine that delivers a whopping 276 horsepower and 289 lb-ft of torque. But wait, there's more! With the N Grin Shift (NGS) feature, you can get a temporary boost to 286 horsepower. This engine is an absolute beast, providing thrilling acceleration and a truly engaging driving experience. The Elantra N comes with either a 6-speed manual transmission (again, love the manuals!) or an 8-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (DCT), which is specifically engineered for high-performance applications. The difference in raw power is significant, making the Elantra N a clear winner in this category for those who prioritize outright speed and track-ready performance.

The Elantra N's superior engine translates to quicker acceleration, higher top speeds, and an overall more aggressive feel. While the Elantra Sport provides a noticeable upgrade over the standard Elantra, the Elantra N takes it to a whole new level, offering a driving experience that rivals some sports cars.

Handling and Suspension

Beyond just straight-line speed, handling is crucial for a sporty car. The Elantra Sport features a sport-tuned suspension that's stiffer than the standard Elantra, reducing body roll and improving cornering. It's a noticeable improvement, offering a more planted and confident feel on winding roads. The steering is also more precise, giving you better feedback from the road.

The Elantra N, however, takes handling to another dimension. It comes equipped with an electronically controlled suspension (ECS) that continuously adjusts damping forces based on driving conditions. This means the car can adapt to different surfaces and driving styles in real-time, providing optimal handling and comfort. The Elantra N also features an electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD), which helps to distribute power more effectively to the front wheels, reducing understeer and improving traction. The steering is even more precise and responsive than the Elantra Sport, offering exceptional control and feedback.

The Elantra N's suspension and handling enhancements make it significantly more capable on a track or spirited driving scenario. The ECS allows for a comfortable ride during daily driving while stiffening up when you're pushing the car to its limits. The eLSD is a game-changer, providing superior traction and cornering ability. While the Elantra Sport offers a decent improvement over the base model, the Elantra N's advanced suspension and differential make it the clear choice for enthusiasts who demand the best possible handling.

Interior and Features

Moving inside, both the Elantra Sport and Elantra N offer sporty and well-equipped interiors, but with distinct differences. The Elantra Sport typically includes features like sport seats with more aggressive bolstering, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and red contrast stitching. It also comes with standard features like a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.

The Elantra N builds upon this with even more aggressive sport seats that provide exceptional support during spirited driving. It also features a unique N-branded steering wheel with dedicated buttons for drive mode selection and the NGS overboost function. The infotainment system is upgraded with performance-oriented displays, showing data like turbo boost, g-forces, and lap times. The Elantra N also includes advanced safety features like lane keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning.

While both cars offer comfortable and well-appointed interiors, the Elantra N has a clear edge in terms of sporty design and performance-oriented features. The seats are more supportive, the steering wheel is more functional, and the infotainment system provides valuable performance data. The added safety features are also a nice bonus. If you're looking for an interior that reflects the car's performance capabilities, the Elantra N is the better choice.

Exterior Styling

Visually, both the Elantra Sport and Elantra N stand out from the standard Elantra, but in different ways. The Elantra Sport features a more aggressive front fascia, side skirts, and a rear spoiler. It also has unique alloy wheels and dual exhaust outlets.

The Elantra N takes the aggressive styling to the extreme. It features a unique front fascia with larger air intakes, a prominent rear wing, and a rear diffuser with dual exhaust outlets. It also has exclusive N-branded alloy wheels and red accents throughout the exterior. The Elantra N's styling is much more aggressive and attention-grabbing, reflecting its high-performance nature.

While the Elantra Sport offers a subtle and sporty upgrade over the base model, the Elantra N makes a bold statement with its aggressive and aerodynamic design. If you want a car that turns heads and announces its performance intentions, the Elantra N is the clear winner. However, if you prefer a more understated look, the Elantra Sport might be more your style.

Price and Value

Of course, price is always a major consideration. The Elantra Sport, being an older model, can be found on the used market for a significantly lower price than a new Elantra N. This makes it a great value for those looking for a sporty and fun-to-drive car on a budget.

The Elantra N, being a newer and higher-performance model, commands a higher price tag. However, it offers a level of performance and features that justify the cost for serious enthusiasts. When comparing the Elantra N to other performance sedans in its class, it offers excellent value for the money.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your budget and priorities. If you're looking for the most performance for your dollar and don't mind buying used, the Elantra Sport is a great option. However, if you're willing to spend more for a truly high-performance car with all the latest features, the Elantra N is the clear winner. Consider what aspects of the car are most important to you, and make the decision from there.

Which One Should You Choose?

So, after this thorough comparison, which car should you choose? Here's a quick recap:

  • Choose the Elantra Sport if:
    • You're on a budget.
    • You want a sporty and fun daily driver.
    • You prefer a more understated look.
  • Choose the Elantra N if:
    • You prioritize performance above all else.
    • You want a track-ready car.
    • You want a car that stands out from the crowd.

Ultimately, the best way to decide is to test drive both cars and see which one feels right for you. Both the Elantra Sport and Elantra N offer a unique and rewarding driving experience. Happy driving, guys!