In a modern auto market dominated by SUVs, the Elantra sedan offers a refreshing change. The 2022 model is available in four main versions, and here’s what you need to know about each.
2022 Hyundai Elantra
The regular Elantra model sets the baseline for the other models to build on, and it provides an impressively strong foundation.
Built to a sleek and dynamic compact sedan design, it’s a small car that’ll turn heads both in the city and on the highway. However, it manages to stand out without being an attention seeker, creating a quietly confident air that reflects the power of the engineering it’s built around.
At the heart of the regular Elantra’s powertrain is a 2.0L inline-4 gas engine making a healthy 147 horsepower and 132lb-ft of torque, passed to front-wheel drive through either a six-speed manual gearbox or an intelligent variable transmission (IVT). And while this configuration won’t win any prizes for searing acceleration or explosive straight-line speed, it’s perfectly powered for everyday city and commuter driving, while also delivering a combined fuel economy as frugal as 6.4L / 100km.
The regular Elantra might be at the entry level of the family, but its interior offers a pleasingly upscale experience. Available luxuries include a power sunroof and dual-zone automatic climate control, backed up with advanced tech including an 8″ or 10.25″ infotainment touchscreen display.
Hyundai Elantra Hybrid
The Elantra is also available in a fuel-saving hybrid model, based on a 1.6L gasoline engine operating alongside a 32-kW electric motor to deliver a combined output of 139 horsepower and 195lb-ft of torque. Although the horsepower drops slightly compared to the regular Elantra, the increased torque delivered with instant electric availability more than makes up for it in everyday performance.
And of course, the true benefit of the hybrid powertrain is shown in the fuel consumption figures, which reach as low as 4.5L / 100km in the city and 4.2L on the highway.
Elantra N-Line
The Elantra N-Line model adds an extra touch of performance alongside several sport-inspired design elements to create a compact sedan with flair and style. The front end is made more aggressive with a glossy black grille and lowered air intakes, while a rear lip spoiler and dual exhaust outlets leave trailing drivers in no doubt about the N-Line’s qualities.
But the sporty feel is more than skin deep. A 1.6L turbo engine pushes out 201 horsepower and 195lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and sport-tuned suspension and steering for impeccably aggressive handling.
Hyundai Elantra N
The Elantra N is firmly focused on the driving experience and takes performance and style to a completely new level. Exterior flourishes such as a prominent wing-type rear spoiler, 19-inch alloy wheels, and an imposing mesh front grille add a distinct feel of the track, and the powertrain more than delivers on the promises of the styling.
A 2.0L turbo engine cranks out a hearty 276 horsepower and 289lb-ft of torque, and is paired with either a six-speed manual transmission for an old-school feel or an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic with paddle shifters for sharper acceleration. Put all this together, and the Elantra N is capable of a searing 0-100km/h time of just 5.3 seconds, pushing it into genuine performance territory.
So, which of the four Elantra models is right for you? Find out for yourself by clicking on the button below to book a test drive and experience the unique Elantra quality before you make your decision.
Please Note: The details of this article were accurate at the time it was written. Manufacturers may change the details of any vehicle’s specifications at any time without notice.
