Hey guys! Let's dive into the thrilling world of the 2022 Elantra N, as reviewed by the awesome folks over at Car and Driver. This isn't just your average compact sedan; it's a performance beast disguised in a practical package. We're going to break down what Car and Driver had to say about this hot little number, covering everything from its blistering performance to its everyday usability. So, buckle up and let's get started!

What Car and Driver Says About the 2022 Elantra N

Car and Driver, known for their in-depth reviews and rigorous testing, didn't hold back their enthusiasm for the 2022 Elantra N. They praised its engaging driving dynamics, powerful engine, and surprisingly comfortable ride. The Elantra N, according to them, is a serious contender in the sports sedan arena, offering a level of performance that punches well above its weight class. Let's delve a bit deeper into the specific aspects they highlighted.

Performance and Handling

The heart of the 2022 Elantra N is its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, pumping out a whopping 276 horsepower and 289 lb-ft of torque. Car and Driver were particularly impressed with the engine's responsiveness and the exhilarating acceleration it provides. They noted that the Elantra N feels quick off the line and pulls strongly throughout the rev range, making it a blast to drive on both the street and the track. The available eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) was also lauded for its quick and precise shifts, further enhancing the car's sporty character.

Beyond the engine, the Elantra N's handling prowess also earned high marks. Car and Driver highlighted the car's sharp steering, minimal body roll, and tenacious grip. The electronically controlled suspension, a key feature of the N model, allows the driver to adjust the ride firmness to suit their preferences, making it comfortable enough for daily commutes while still providing excellent control during spirited driving. The N Corner Carving Differential, another performance-enhancing feature, helps to distribute power effectively to the front wheels, reducing understeer and improving traction.

Interior and Features

While the Elantra N is primarily focused on performance, it doesn't skimp on interior comfort and features. Car and Driver noted that the cabin is well-appointed, with supportive sport seats, a sporty steering wheel, and unique N-specific trim. The digital instrument cluster and large touchscreen infotainment system add a touch of modernity, and the intuitive controls make it easy to operate various functions. Features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, ensuring seamless smartphone integration.

However, it's worth mentioning that the Elantra N's interior isn't quite as luxurious as some of its competitors. Car and Driver pointed out that some of the materials feel a bit less premium compared to rivals like the Honda Civic Si or the Volkswagen GTI. But overall, the interior is functional, comfortable, and well-suited to the car's sporty character.

Value and Practicality

One of the most compelling aspects of the 2022 Elantra N, according to Car and Driver, is its exceptional value proposition. It offers a level of performance and features that are typically found in cars costing significantly more. This makes it an incredibly attractive option for enthusiasts who want a thrilling driving experience without breaking the bank. Plus, the Elantra N retains the practicality of a compact sedan, with a spacious backseat and a decent-sized trunk, making it suitable for daily use.

Key Takeaways from Car and Driver's Review

To sum up Car and Driver's review, here are some key takeaways about the 2022 Elantra N:

• Exhilarating Performance: The turbocharged engine and sharp handling make it a joy to drive.
• Sporty Interior: The cabin is well-equipped and features unique N-specific touches.
• Excellent Value: It offers a lot of performance for the money.
• Practicality: It's still a comfortable and practical compact sedan.

Overall, Car and Driver were highly impressed with the 2022 Elantra N, calling it a true performance bargain and a worthy competitor in the sports sedan segment.

Diving Deeper: Performance Specs and Track Prowess

Let’s really get into the nitty-gritty of what makes this car such a firecracker on the road and the track. We're talking horsepower, torque, acceleration times, and all those juicy details that make performance enthusiasts drool. Car and Driver put the Elantra N through its paces, and the results are seriously impressive.

Engine and Powertrain

Under the hood, as we mentioned before, sits a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine. But let's really break down what that means. This isn't just any turbo four-pot; it's been specifically tuned by Hyundai's N division, the same folks who brought us the riotous Veloster N. The result? A staggering 276 horsepower and 289 lb-ft of torque. And get this – there's an “N Grin Shift” function that temporarily bumps the horsepower up to 286 for short bursts of maximum attack. Seriously, who wouldn't grin?

The engine is mated to either a six-speed manual transmission (for the purists among us) or an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). Car and Driver tested the DCT version and were blown away by its lightning-fast shifts. The DCT also features launch control, allowing for optimal acceleration from a standstill. This car is engineered to launch, and that’s exactly what it does best.

Acceleration and Handling Numbers

So, how quick is it? Car and Driver clocked the 2022 Elantra N from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 4.8 seconds. That’s seriously quick, folks. To put that in perspective, that's in the same ballpark as some pretty serious sports cars. The quarter-mile time is equally impressive, coming in at 13.2 seconds at 109 mph. The Elantra N isn’t just fast; it’s properly quick.

But it’s not just about straight-line speed. The Elantra N is a corner carver too. Car and Driver were particularly impressed with its handling prowess, noting its sharp steering, minimal body roll, and tenacious grip. The electronically controlled suspension allows drivers to tailor the ride to their liking, from comfortable for daily driving to firm and controlled for track days. The N Corner Carving Differential helps to put the power down effectively, minimizing understeer and allowing for impressive cornering speeds. This car sticks to the road like glue, making it an absolute blast to drive on twisty roads.

Track-Ready Features

The Elantra N isn’t just a fast street car; it’s genuinely track-ready right out of the box. In addition to the features we’ve already mentioned, it boasts a number of other performance-enhancing goodies. There's an active exhaust system that delivers a raucous soundtrack, Brembo brakes that provide serious stopping power, and a suite of N-specific drive modes that allow drivers to fine-tune the car's performance characteristics. These modes adjust parameters like throttle response, suspension damping, steering weight, and even the sound of the exhaust. It’s like having multiple cars in one!

Car and Driver were particularly impressed with the Elantra N’s composure on the track. They noted that it felt balanced and predictable, inspiring confidence even when driven hard. The brakes held up well to repeated abuse, and the engine never felt strained. This is a car that can handle a full day of lapping without breaking a sweat.

Real-World Driving Impressions: Comfort and Daily Usability

Okay, so we've established that the 2022 Elantra N is a performance powerhouse. But what's it like to live with day to day? Can you actually drive it to work, pick up groceries, and handle the mundane tasks of everyday life without feeling like you're driving a race car on the street? Let's explore the Elantra N's comfort and usability.

Ride Quality and Suspension

One of the most impressive aspects of the Elantra N is its surprisingly comfortable ride, considering its performance credentials. This is largely thanks to the electronically controlled suspension, which allows the driver to adjust the ride firmness to their liking. In its most comfortable setting, the suspension does a surprisingly good job of absorbing bumps and road imperfections, making the Elantra N perfectly suitable for daily commuting.

Of course, when you switch to a sportier driving mode, the suspension firms up considerably, providing better body control and handling. But even in its firmest setting, the ride isn't overly harsh or jarring. It's a testament to Hyundai's engineering that they've managed to strike such a good balance between comfort and performance. Car and Driver also highlighted this in their review, praising the car's ability to be both a comfortable daily driver and a capable track machine.

Interior Comfort and Features

The Elantra N's interior is another area where it shines in terms of usability. The sport seats are supportive and comfortable, even on long drives. They hold you in place nicely during spirited driving but aren't so aggressively bolstered that they become uncomfortable for everyday use. The cabin is well-laid-out, with intuitive controls and a user-friendly infotainment system. As we mentioned earlier, features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, making it easy to stay connected on the go.

The Elantra N also offers a decent amount of space for passengers and cargo. The backseat is surprisingly roomy for a compact sedan, and the trunk is large enough to handle most everyday hauling needs. This is a car that can comfortably accommodate four adults, making it a practical choice for families or anyone who frequently carries passengers.

Noise and Refinement

While the Elantra N is a performance car, it's not overly noisy or uncivilized in everyday driving. The active exhaust system does provide a nice sporty soundtrack, but it's not obnoxiously loud. The engine is generally quiet and refined at cruising speeds, and wind and road noise are reasonably well-controlled. This is a car that you can comfortably drive on the highway without getting a headache.

However, it's worth noting that the Elantra N does have a slightly firmer ride and more road noise than a non-performance-oriented compact sedan. This is the trade-off you make for the car's superior handling and performance. But overall, the Elantra N is surprisingly refined and comfortable for a car in its class.

The Verdict: Is the 2022 Elantra N a Winner?

So, after considering Car and Driver's review, the performance specs, and the real-world driving experience, what's the final verdict on the 2022 Elantra N? In our opinion, it's a resounding winner. This is a car that offers a rare combination of exhilarating performance, practicality, and value.

Car and Driver were clearly impressed with the Elantra N, praising its sharp handling, powerful engine, and comfortable ride. They highlighted its exceptional value proposition, noting that it offers a level of performance that's typically found in cars costing significantly more. We couldn't agree more. The Elantra N is a true performance bargain, offering enthusiasts a thrilling driving experience without breaking the bank.

But it's not just about performance. The Elantra N is also a surprisingly practical and comfortable car to live with day to day. It offers a spacious interior, a decent-sized trunk, and a reasonably comfortable ride. This is a car that you can drive to work, take on road trips, and even use for family duties.

If you're looking for a performance car that's also practical, affordable, and fun to drive, the 2022 Elantra N should definitely be on your list. It's a true all-rounder that excels in every area. Hyundai has truly created something special with the Elantra N, and it's a car that deserves serious consideration from anyone who loves to drive. So, go ahead and give it a try – you might just find yourself grinning from ear to ear. 🤘