As if drivers needed another reason to love the Hyundai Sonata, the announcement that an N-Line model is coming has created quite the buzz. Of course, not everyone is entirely aware of the N trend that is taking Hyundai by storm. You’ll see terms like “Hyundai N” and “Hyundai N-Line” thrown around, but what do these nameplates even mean, and what’s the difference?
Welcome to Hyundai N
Hyundai is attaching an “N” to some of its newest models to indicate that they are part of an exclusive line of automobiles. N vehicles are a combination of Hyundai’s racecar division and its regular vehicles. They offer better performance, sporty upgrades, and a style that is unique to N.
Hyundai chose to call these trims and lines N to pay tribute to Namyang, South Korea. This city is where Hyundai’s research and development team does the magic work of designing and improving Hyundai’s amazing line of cars. The N also points to the track in Nurburgring, Germany, where vehicles are pushed to their limits for testing.
Simply put, N and N-Line vehicles give you a race-like experience without making you quit your day job.
Two Levels of Hyundai N
You’ll notice that there are two different levels of N models. Hyundai N options are separate models. They were born out of a need for high-performance and advanced racing technology. These cars come with improved suspension, transmissions, steering, and more. Throw in exclusive styling, and you have quite an amazing ride.
The first major N vehicle was the Hyundai Veloster, followed by the Kona. Everyone is stoked for 2022 when the first Elantra N hits the road.
N-Line vehicles are essentially trim levels of your favorite Hyundai vehicles. Take the Hyundai Sonata, for example. This flagship of the Hyundai lineup already has plenty of options and capabilities. Drivers can now pick up this popular automobile in the N-Line trim.
N-Line models come with styling and performance upgrades that make them stand out from the pack. You’ll experience improved handling, agility, and aerodynamics. N-Lines aren’t available on every vehicle yet, but you can find them on options like the Hyundai Sonata and Tucson.
What Comes With an N?
If you’re looking at an N-Line vehicle, like the Sonata, you can expect some top-of-the-line upgrades. The current Sonata is equipped with a 2.5-liter engine that produces 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. When you upgrade to the N-Line, your Sonata now comes with a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine that boasts 290 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. This model also comes with unique 19-inch wheels, sport-tuned suspension, and an impressive dual-clutch automatic transmission.
The new Elantra N is a stand-alone vehicle with three of its own trims. It comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that makes 276 horsepower and 289 lb-ft of torque. Drivers have the choice of a manual or automatic transmission, but the automatic version also comes with an over-boost button that adds ten hp for 20 seconds.
The only real downside of an N vehicle is a higher price tag. The Elantra N, for example, is expected to start at $30,000, which is almost $10,000 more than the base-level version of this sedan. Of course, you’re getting more than you paid for with this vehicle’s extra and unique capabilities.
The Future Starts With “N”
When it comes to providing a thrilling, race-like experience, no other auto manufacturer can compete with Hyundai. Whether you go with a special N-Line trim like on the Hyundai Sonata or go for a completely new N model like the Veloster, Kona, or Elantra, you’ll have the highest-performing vehicle on the road today.
Stop by your local Hyundai dealer to see these amazing cars in action. It’s time you scratch that need-for-speed itch with something from Hyundai.
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