Among Hyundai's Detroit auto show debuts is the Elantra GT N Line, the latest take on the brand's sport compact hatchback.
The Elantra GT N Line replaces last year's GT Sport trim and expands the reach of performance-oriented N sub-brand, to which North America was introduced last fall by way of the Veloster N.
N Line is to N what BMW's M Sport models are to its full-on M cars: they're conceived to provide a taste of performance in a package that will appeal to a wider range of buyers, and at a lower price point.
The GT N Line carries forward a 1.6L turbo four-cylinder with 201 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque and a choice of six-speed manual and seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmissions. Also carried over from the old Sport trim are the wheels (newly styled but still 18 inches in diameter), brakes (larger and more powerful than those in the standard Elantra GT) and a multi-link rear suspension to replace the torsion beam setup in the entry-level GT.
The N Line treatment does bring a few upgrades relative to the outgoing GT Sport. Stiffer engine and transmission mounts promise better driveline responses, and there are firmer springs and newly tuned shocks and steering. The suspension's sway bars have been resized, too: the front bar is one mm smaller in diameter, while the rear gains three mm, a change that promises a reduction in understeer and more balanced handling at the car's limits.
Inside, there's a perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel wearing the N logo, sport seats, a new shift knob and red stitching.
The GT N Line's silhouette is little different, save for a new lower front spoiler, an N Line grille insert and a restyled rear bumper.
Hyundai offers the Elantra GT N Line with an array of safety systems including blind spot monitoring, intelligent cruise control, forward collision avoidance assistance, lane keep assist and driver attention warning.
The new, faster AVN infotainment system is available as an option that also includes the panoramic sunroof, BlueLink system, ventilated seats, automatic emergency braking and the Infinity premium audio system.
The new Hyundai Elantra GT N Line 2019 is already available in Canada at a starting price of $27,199 for the manual transmission version, while the Ultimate edition with the dual-clutch automatic transmission costs $30,699.
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