The 200-Horsepower 2017 Elantra Sport Shows That Hyundai Is Ready To Be A Performance Player

Hyundai has just released a turbocharged sport version of its Elantra sedan. The 2017 Elantra Sport will be powered by the same turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine as the Veloster Turbo. Oddly, the Elantra will have 200 hp and 190 lb-ft of torque, exactly one less horsepower and 5 lb-ft of torque less than the Veloster. Still, this new Hyundai model will be very sporty with either a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic transmission on offer. This car also has the suspension to match its power.

The Elantra Sport ditched the base car's torsion bar suspension in favor of a new multi-link unit. The Elantra has a Korean-market twin called the Avante Sport, which offers an optional "Extreme Package" with anti-roll bars, springs and shocks. We aren't sure whether this package will make it to the Elantra in the US, but since the two cars are identical we wouldn't be surprised if Hyundai offers the package with a new name. The Elantra Sport retains its subtle look, but additions like unique bodywork and model-specific interior appointments such as a flat-bottomed steering wheel, sport seats and red contrast stitching help the car stand out as a sporty option.