What’s Changing with the Next-Gen Hyundai N Cars?
Hyundai’s N division has been on a roll, delivering performance cars that punch well above their weight in both fun and value. If you’ve been following the buzz, you already know the Elantra N and i20 N are set for new generations. But these aren’t just minor facelifts—Hyundai is shaking up the formula, and the changes are worth a closer look.
Will the Elantra N Get More Power or Just a Bigger Engine?
Let’s start with the Elantra N. The big news: Hyundai is swapping out the current 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder for a larger 2.5-liter engine—the same one you’ll find in the Sonata. The catch? While the engine is bigger, don’t expect a massive jump in horsepower. According to Albert Biermann, the former head of Hyundai N, the next Elantra N will likely stick close to the current model’s output—around 276 horsepower and 289 lb-ft of torque.
Why not crank it up? Emissions regulations are tightening, especially in Europe with the upcoming Euro 7 standards. Hyundai’s move to the 2.5-liter is about future-proofing the car, not just chasing numbers. The upside: you’ll still get the signature N driving experience, just with a powertrain that’s built to last in a stricter regulatory world.
How Is the i20 N Evolving—and Is It Still a True Hot Hatch?
The i20 N, a cult favorite in Europe and Asia, is set for an even bigger transformation. The next version will be a hybrid, pairing its turbocharged 1.6-liter engine with a small electric motor. This isn’t just about going green. The hybrid setup could push total output close to 270 horsepower—putting it right on the heels of the Elantra N.
That’s a serious leap from the current i20 N’s 201 horsepower. For a car that’s already known for its playful handling and lightweight feel, this extra punch could make it a giant-killer in the hot hatch world. Of course, adding an electric motor and battery means more weight, but if Hyundai keeps the chassis sharp, the fun factor should remain intact.
Will the Manual Transmission Survive in the New N Cars?
Here’s where things get a little bittersweet for purists. The hybrid i20 N will lose its six-speed manual gearbox, replaced by a dual-clutch automatic. Most likely, it’ll be the eight-speed unit from the Elantra N or a beefed-up version of the seven-speed found in other i20s.
Why the change? Hybrid systems are tricky to pair with manuals, and emissions rules are pushing automakers toward automatics. The upside is faster shifts and potentially better performance. The downside? That classic, row-your-own-gear feel will be gone. If you’re a die-hard manual fan, this might sting—but it’s a sign of the times.
How Will These Changes Affect Price and Everyday Usability?
Let’s be real: more tech means higher prices. The hybrid i20 N will almost certainly cost more than its predecessor, and the added complexity could mean a slight bump in running costs. But there’s a silver lining. Hybridization often brings better fuel economy and lower emissions, which can save you money in the long run—especially if you live somewhere with hefty taxes on high-CO2 cars.
As for the Elantra N, the bigger engine should offer a broader torque curve and smoother power delivery, making it even more usable as a daily driver. Hyundai’s N cars have always struck a sweet spot between track-day thrills and real-world comfort, and these updates look set to continue that tradition.
What Do Experts and Real-World Drivers Think?
Industry analysts point out that Hyundai’s approach—embracing hybrid tech while keeping performance front and center—is the new blueprint for hot hatches and sport sedans. According to a 2023 report from JATO Dynamics, hybrid and electrified powertrains are expected to make up over 50% of new car sales in Europe by 2027. Hyundai’s move isn’t just about compliance; it’s about staying ahead of the curve.
Drivers who’ve sampled the outgoing i20 N and Elantra N rave about their playful handling, punchy engines, and everyday usability. The hope is that the next-gen models, even with their added tech and automatic gearboxes, will keep that spirit alive. If Hyundai nails the execution, these cars could set a new benchmark for affordable performance in a changing world.
What’s the Big Takeaway for Enthusiasts?
Hyundai’s next-gen N cars aren’t about chasing nostalgia—they’re about adapting to a new era without losing their soul. The Elantra N gets a bigger, cleaner engine. The i20 N goes hybrid and automatic. Some things will change, but the core promise—affordable, grin-inducing performance—remains.
The big takeaway? Performance isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.