Hyundai unveiled to the North American market for the first time ever the Elantra Sport at a Washington Automotive Press Association event yesterday. It’s Hyundai’s return first attempt to enter the sub-compact enthusiast market, because we all know any self respecting enthusiast is not buying the Hyundai Veloster Turbo, and no one seems to remember the Hyundai Tiburon. And unlike the Veloster, the Elantra Sport is fitted with a multi-link rear suspension setup to enhance the handling, but don’t get it twisted, this is not a track car.
The Elantra Sport will be fitted with Hyundai’s 1.6-liter Tubro GDI engine that puts out 200 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque, and Hyundai hoping to be in the mid 6 second 0-60 sprint. Unfortunately, there won’t be any trick handling systems to help put the power down to the front wheels like a limited-slip differential, or torque/brake vectoring. Hyundai did mention they spend a significant amount time tuning the exhaust note and it shows. You get the delicious snap, crackle and pop of a good sounding exhaust, Ford Focus RS style. The interior is outfitted with sporty leather seats, and the same amazing infotainment system that comes in the new 2017 Elantra. If this is sign of things to come at Hyundai, the crew at Right Foot Down is excited to see what comes next. Walk around video below, and exhaust clip video.
You can also view a walk around and exhaust clip here on WAPA’s Facebook page.