Why would I say something crazy like that?
Simple. ‘Cause you can get away with a whole lot more in an Elantra N.
Sure…if you have one of those racetrack country club memberships…or if you live in the boonies on a twisty and lightly-patrolled road…driving a Mclaren is a bucket-list experience.
But in the real world, it’s a little different. Every Mclaren I’ve ever driven has attracted Gawkers and street racers. Box trucks tried to race me…to say nothing of countless Hellcats and 20-year-old Camrys. Getting in and out from a foot above the ground can be a real workout…and you usually feel safest from door-dings by parking in the most distant corners of the parking lot.
That’s why I enjoyed my week in Hyundai’s Elantra N.
For starters, the N is a rather chiseled front-wheel-drive 4-door. Not quite the traffic-stopping looks of a Mclaren, but those in the know can spot it instantly. The N’s tasteful red trim, red brake calipers and spoiler give it away.
But it’s the guts of the Elantra N that bring on the smiles. You’ve got a 276 HP turbo four with an 8-speed rev-matching dual clutch automatic for starters. A 6-speed stick is available if you’d prefer. That’s a little less than Mclaren offers, but it’s a potent combination…good for 0-60 in under 5 seconds, and a top end of 155. Plenty fast enough for me.
Then to bring that power to the road, the Elantra N gives us 14.2” ventilated front discs, an electronically controlled suspension with their Corner-Carving differential ( makes curves more fun ), sticky 245 / 35 / 19 Michelin Pilot Sport 4s shoes, Hyundai’s “N-Grin”, for an extra burst of power,...even a rear chassis brace for extra stiffening.
Creature comforts? Sure. You get heated illuminated alcantara buckets, premium Bose audio, a 10.2” touch screen with lap-timer and even a track map…and of course, your expected “economy / normal / sport” engine and suspension settings.
And while I usually drive in “normal”, the irresistible burbling, gurgling twin 5” exhaust pipes had me keep the N in “Sport” mode all week. It’s a sweet sound indeed. Not quite obnoxious, but darned engaging.
All this is yours for around $37,500. For a true performance vehicle, that’s a bargain. And the final surprise? I averaged right at 25 MPG…even in “Sport”…and driving with the enthusiasm that this vehicle generates.