The 2025 Hyundai Elantra N is a front-wheel-drive performance sedan powered by a 2.0L turbocharged engine. Paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), it produces 286 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque with overboost mode engaged. Priced at around $36,000, the Elantra N offers impressive performance for a daily driver.
Pros of the 2025 Hyundai Elantra N DCT
1. Engaging Driving Experience
The heart of the Elantra N is its 2.0L turbocharged engine, and it delivers a thrilling drive every time you hit the road. With responsive power delivery and torque on demand, the car feels alive and ready to play. Paired with the dual-clutch transmission, the shifts are quick and smooth, especially in sport mode, where the car truly comes to life.
The Elantra N feels at home on twisty roads, offering precise steering feedback and a balanced chassis that encourages spirited driving. Even in daily commuting, it remains fun to drive—something many modern performance cars struggle to achieve.
2. Physical Control Layout
In a world where most cars are ditching buttons for touchscreens, Hyundai has taken a more driver-focused approach with the Elantra N. The cabin is packed with physical controls for climate, volume, drive modes, and even a manual parking brake—a feature many enthusiasts appreciate.
The physical buttons not only make the car more user-friendly but also enhance safety by allowing you to make adjustments without taking your eyes off the road.
3. Improved Ride Quality and Handling
One of the standout improvements for the 2025 model is the suspension tuning. Compared to the pre-facelift version, the new Elantra N handles bumps and uneven surfaces much better. Hyundai has also upgraded the differential and engine mounts, which improves traction and reduces wheel hop during aggressive acceleration.
The result? A car that feels more composed and confident, whether you’re tackling tight corners or cruising down the highway.
4. Industry-Leading Warranty
Hyundai continues to offer one of the best warranties in the industry. The Elantra N comes with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 6-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.
This gives buyers peace of mind, especially for a performance car that might see more aggressive driving than a standard commuter sedan.
5. Fun Factor
The 2025 Hyundai Elantra N DCT isn’t just a performance car—it’s a fun car to drive. Hyundai has nailed the balance between track-ready performance and everyday usability. The exhaust sounds great, especially with customizable piped-in sounds, and the car’s playful character makes it stand out in a market full of serious, spec-chasing rivals.
With features like launch control and a dual-clutch transmission that’s surprisingly smooth, it’s clear that Hyundai has designed the Elantra N to put a smile on your face.
Cons of the 2025 Hyundai Elantra N DCT
1. Lack of Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
One of the biggest disappointments in the Elantra N is the lack of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the car offers wireless charging, you’ll need to plug in your phone to use these connectivity features.
In 2025, this feels outdated, especially when many budget-friendly cars now offer wireless smartphone integration.
2. Sport Seats Are Hard to Get In and Out Of
The sport seats in the Elantra N are well-bolstered and provide excellent support during spirited driving. However, they can be a bit challenging to get in and out of, especially for passengers who aren’t used to performance-focused seats.
During my week with the car, I noticed that my wife found the seat bolstering uncomfortable, particularly when sliding in and out of the car.
3. No Driver-Side Grab Handle
Another minor annoyance is the lack of a grab handle on the driver’s side. While grab handles are present for the rear passengers and the front passenger, the driver is left without one.
This is a small cost-cutting measure, but it’s noticeable when entering or exiting the car, especially for taller drivers or those who regularly use grab handles for support.
4. No Adaptive Cruise Control
The 2025 Elantra N offers active lane-keeping assist, but it lacks adaptive cruise control. This is a strange omission, given that the lane-keeping feature can make the car feel semi-autonomous at times. Without adaptive cruise control, drivers need to manually adjust their speed in traffic, which can be frustrating on longer drives.
5. Fuel Economy Could Be Better
The Elantra N delivers around 30 MPG on the highway, but real-world fuel economy can be a bit disappointing compared to rivals like the Honda Civic Type R or Volkswagen Golf R.
For a car with a 2.0L turbocharged engine, you’d expect slightly better efficiency, especially in mixed driving conditions.
Our Final Thoughts on the 2025 Hyundai Elantra N DCT
The 2025 Hyundai Elantra N DCT is an exciting and well-rounded performance sedan that strikes a great balance between daily usability and weekend fun. With refined ride quality, engaging driving dynamics, and a reliable warranty, it’s a compelling choice for enthusiasts looking for a practical yet sporty car.
However, it’s not without flaws. The lack of wireless smartphone connectivity, adaptive cruise control, and fuel economy shortcomings may deter some buyers. But for those who prioritize fun factor and engagement behind the wheel, the Elantra N is one of the most exciting options in its class.
2025 Hyundai Elantra N DCT – Pros & Cons Summary
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Engaging driving experience | No wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto |
| Physical control layout | Sport seats are hard to get in and out of |
| Improved ride quality and handling | No driver-side grab handle |
| Industry-leading warranty | No adaptive cruise control |
| Fun factor and playful character | Fuel economy could be better |
If you’re in the market for a sporty daily driver that can deliver thrills on the road without sacrificing practicality, the 2025 Hyundai Elantra N DCT is worth considering. It may not be the most efficient or the most high-tech car in its class, but it’s one of the most fun to drive, and that’s what makes it a standout.
Would you choose the Hyundai Elantra N over its rivals? Let us know in the comments below!
