N Line performance comes to Hyundai.
Lots of updates, including performance tires set within alloy wheels.
Hyundai offers the compact Elantra in sedan and hatchback body styles, the latter known as the Elantra GT. For 2019, the first “N Line” model arrives, this one serving as the top trim for the GT.
The N Line replaces the GT Sport, but it represents much more than a name change. Indeed, this particular model benefits from stiffer engine and transmission mounts, taut springs, enhanced steering and shocks tuning, and new front and rear sway bars.
Ultimately, when you hear “N Line” you should know that it represents the entry-level style and performance category for Hyundai’s wider N performance line. Models denoted with just an “N” supply maximum power, something we’re seeing in the all-new Veloster. It is doubtful we’ll witness an Elantra GT N, but the N Line offers its own design and performance characteristics, which we’ll explore as we discuss the model at hand.
2019 Hyundai Elantra GT
Hyundai offers the standard Elantra GT ($20,450), the N Line with a manual transmission ($23,300), and the N Line with a dual-clutch automatic transmission ($24,400). This front-wheel-drive five-door hatchback holds five.
The Elantra GT competes with the Mazda 3, Volkswagen Golf, and the Honda Civic. In particular, the Golf STi and Civic Si are the nearest competitors to the N Line.
N Line Design
If the Hyundai Elantra GT N Line evokes a reminder of the Volkswagen GTi, that’s on purpose. Its silhouette is sporty, with pulled-in corners and a lowered stance. A bold mesh grille, large air intakes, sleek LED lighting elements, crisp lines, beautiful 18-inch alloy wheels, and a rear diffuser with dual exhaust, mark this model. Subtle design elements, including black side mirrors and black beltline trim, are also evident. There’s nothing “budget” about the N Line, rather there’s a quiet sophistication that should appeal to a certain breed of shoppers.
Inside, the N Line verve continues with its N Sport, bolstered bucket seats. They’re leather-trimmed with contrasting red dual stitching. The steering wheel and shifter are wrapped in leather, but that sliding armrest is covered in imitation leather. Hyundai did a remarkable job with making it feel like the real thing, however.
Two large dials occupy the instrument panel. To the left is the tachometer. Set within it is a smaller gas readout. To the right is the speedometer. And set within that is the fuel gauge. Smack in the middle is a digital driver’s information center. A layered dashboard, a sporty steering wheel (no flat bottom!), metal pedals, and red trim surrounding the vents are among the more fetching visual cues present.
Practically speaking, the N Line is very comfortable for two, manageable for four, and very tight for five. Back seat legroom is lacking, which is typical of the segment. Figure that most owners buy this car for their ride and fold down the rear seat for long trips away from home. In doing so, you’re rewarded with 55.1 cubic feet of storage space, up from the standard 24.9 cubic feet.
On the Road
The power under the hood is one thing. How any car ultimately handles is what makes all the difference.
With the N Line, Hyundai swapped out its torsion-beam rear suspension for a multi-link setup, which combined with its rigid body and balanced chassis, enables this hatch to cut up corners and stay planted on the road. Steering is light, yet accurate. Torque steer barely registers and when it rears itself, it isn’t the distraction it might be on other models.
The 1.6-liter turbo-four makes for a proper match for the little hatchback. The turbo spools up quickly and with authority. Our test model had the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, which is an upgrade from the 6-speed manual gearbox. We relished the idea of driving with the manual but made do with the automatic and the steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. In any case, your 0-to-60 mph time should approach 6 seconds, which is laudable.
With lots of twisty roads ahead of us, we sought them out with glee. The N Line did not disappoint as it pushed its way into every curve and pulled out again without any negative drama. In fact, except for the most angled curves, we didn’t have to release the gas pedal — the N Line stayed within the lines.
There are a few points to keep in mind about the engine. It certainly is capable, but it is quieter than what we’d expect. Further, the exhaust doesn’t burble and toot to the extent we’d want. Perhaps Hyundai wanted to make a distinction between N Line and N models — we haven’t tested the latter yet, however.
What we’d like to see from Hyundai is available all-wheel drive, especially in a model to take on the “no longer offered in the U.S.” Ford Focus RS. We know Hyundai has been testing an i30 N in Europe (the i30 is another name for the Elantra) and that move would elevate Hyundai’s performance brand to also take on the Volkswagen Golf R. We think this will happen, perhaps in Veloster guise, which would give Hyundai a level of performance excitement we haven’t seen since the Genesis Coupe.
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If you’re shopping the Elantra GT and want a performance edge, then the N Line is worth a look.
Our N Line tester retailed for nearly $30,000 as it included the dual-clutch transmission and the Tech Package ($3,850). That package bundles such items as a panoramic sunroof, navigation, ventilated front seats, a premium audio system, wireless charging pad, and expanded driver-assist features, including adaptive cruise control with full stop and go.
Importantly, the N Line adds many of the tuner features enthusiasts want. That said, the aftermarket parts industry has an assortment of electronics, fuel delivery and exhaust systems, and kits to stir your heart. And with Ford, Chevy, and Dodge cutting back or retreating from the segment, Hyundai offers a compelling hatchback to replace your old ride.
2019 Hyundai Elantra GT N Line Specifications
| Hyundai | 2019 Elantra GT N Line |
|---|---|
| Segment | Compact Hatchback |
| Price Range | $23,300 or $24,400 |
| Destination Charge | $930 |
| Standard Engine | 1.6-liter, turbo I4 |
| Horsepower | 201 @ 6000 |
| Torque (lb.-ft.) | 195 @ 1500~4500 |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual; 7-speed DCT |
| Seating | 5 |
| Curb Weight (pounds) | 3,014 to 3,155 |
| Wheelbase (inches) | 104.3 |
| Length (inches) | 170.9 |
| Width (inches) | 70.7 |
| Height (inches) | 57.7 |
| Headroom (f,r…inches) | 39.1; 38.5 |
| Legroom (f,r…inches) | 42.2; 34.8 |
| Shoulder room (f,r…inches) | 56.2; 55.4 |
| Hip room (f,r…inches) | TBD |
| Storage (cubic feet) | 24.9; 55.1 |
| Gross vehicle weight (pounds) | 4,079 |
| Towing (pounds) | NR |
| Payload (pounds) | NR |
| Fuel | Regular |
| Fuel Tank (gallons) | 14.0 |
| EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined) | 25/32/27 |
| Manufacturing Plant | Montgomery, Alabama |
Data compiled by Tom Keegan. Specifications supplied by the manufacturer. Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.
See Also — Compact Delight: 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT
These numbers are incredible and come in slightly higher than the standard-bearing Toyota Prius and its top 56 mpg rating. But what’s achieved on paper is often different in real life. Factors such as weather conditions and driving habits must be considered. Indeed, at least some of my drive time took place with the mercury approaching 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Optimum conditions for a hybrid are generally in the 70s. Cold weather can impact fuel economy too.
The standard features list for the Veloster 2.0 includes projector headlights with an automatic on/off function, LED daytime running lights, 17-inch alloy wheels and a rear spoiler. Inside, you’ll find power windows, power door locks, a tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel and air conditioning.
At this trim level, you’ll find such premium features as 18-inch alloy wheels and a sunroof. The most significant improvements occur inside where an eight-speaker Infinity audio system is matched with an 8-inch display. Hyundai’s Blue Link connected car services are added as is satellite radio and a wireless charging pad.
The R-Spec adds such sporting features as a unique front grille and rear spoiler, summer performance tires and a unique sport-tuned suspension. You’ll also find dual-exhaust tips, a 4.2-inch color instrument cluster, special cloth seating and alloy pedals.
This model also gains drive mode select, unique cloth/leather seats, power lumbar support for the driver’s seat and a perforated leather steering wheel.
Press hard on the gas pedal and the turbo jumps in, delivering sufficient kick. The mode selector defaults to normal with sport and smart the other options. The latter mode controls the amount of digitally supplied exhaust noise delivered to the cabin. If you don’t like the drone you can turn it off through the control screen. Otherwise, the sport and smart modes control throttle response and steering effort.
Hyundai offers the 
The Style Package brings in a proximity key with push-button start; blind spot detection with rear cross-traffic alert and lane change assist; side-mirror turn signal indicators; an instrument panel display with sharper graphics; dual-zone climate control; a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob; a power-controlled driver seat with lumbar support; heated front seats, a driver’s automatic up/down window; and a sliding armrest.
I like the shape of the Elantra GT with its long hood and short rear quarter, giving this wedge-shaped vehicle a shoe-like appearance. Or should I say running shoe?
The Elantra GT seats five, although the best number is four. Up front are comfortable and supportive bucket seats. The rear 60:40 split-bench seat holds two comfortably, especially with the middle arm rest folded down revealing a pair of cup holders. The only caution here is that a tall driver or front passenger demanding maximum legroom may put a crimp on your personal space if you sit on the rear seat.
You’ll find a generous supply of standard and available technology features with the 2018 Elantra GT, including an 8-inch display audio system with satellite radio, HD radio, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
My test Elantra GT came with the standard engine paired with the automatic transmission. I would have loved to have had the opportunity to drive with the manual gearbox, but one wasn’t offered.
Typically, I’ve found small front-wheel drive cars offer a fun driving experience with torque steer adding a certain measure of steering fun without overwhelming the handling experience. That’s exactly what I found with the Elantra GT.
Notable body and platform changes include an expanded use of structural adhesives leading to an 18 percent increase in torsional rigidity. Further, this hatchback is now 53 percent comprised of high strength steel, nearly double the amount used in the previous model.
There is a lot to like about the Elantra GT, including its near $25,000 price tag for a fully equipped model.
