Hyundai has introduced the new Elantra GT ‘N Line’
at the Detroit Auto Show, marking the debut of the brand’s new sporty trim in
the U.S. market. The new Hyundai Elantra GT N Line replaces the outgoing Elantra GT
Sport in the range, featuring sporty design elements, as well as some juicy
powertrain and chassis upgrades.
Visual changes are inspired directly from the
not-available-in-the-US i30N and include a lower front spoiler for better
aerodynamic efficiency, a silver N treatment for the front grille, blacked out
door mirrors with turn signals, 18-inch alloy wheels shod in Michelin Pilot
Sport 4 rubber and a unique rear bumper.
The cabin is similarly updated with a unique
three-spoke steering wheel, N Line leather seats and gear shift with metal
accents, a sportier instrument cluster and plenty of red stitching and accents
all around. The seats are also heated and feature power lumbar support, as well
as extendable seat cushions.
But the most important upgrades are the ones hiding
in the chassis. Hyundai says the new Elantra GT N Line comes with stiffer
mounts for the engine and transmission, different stability bars front and
rear, retuned shocks accompanied with stiffer springs, recalibrated steering
and more. The brake rotors are also bigger in diameter.
The turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine
remains the same, still producing a respectable 201 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque.
Hyundai will offer the option between a six-speed manual and a seven-speed
dual-clutch automatic transmission to Elantra GT N Line customers.
Pricing for the new Hyundai Elantra GT N Line starts
from US$ 24.185 (including a US$ 885 freight charge) for the manual model and from US$ 25,285 (again, with freight charge) for the dual-clutch automatic.