BMW

BMW X1 sDrive18d: Premium compact turbodiesel SUV with a range of 1,000 km to 1,200 km on a single tank

Two and a half years have passed since the third generation of the BMW X1, known internally as U11, arrived at dealerships as a great option for those seeking a premium compact SUV. At that time, we, who were present at the car's launch in Portugal, focused mainly on the electrified versions. But, even now, we cannot forget that the sDrive18d variant, diesel of course, remains a superb choice for those who devour the asphalt on long journeys.

The approach of this car, which represents the gateway to the Bavarian brand's 'X universe', avoids unnecessary extravagances and boasts a presence that, despite being the 'younger sibling', makes us think that it is anything but small. Its exterior design is withstanding the challenges of this first phase of its life, and especially those of its rivals, with great dignity. The double grilles maintain a generous size, well integrated into a very vertical front that commands respect in the rearview mirror. The headlights have a look that could be described as 'challenging', while the clean surfaces and recessed door handles improve aerodynamics and remind us that we are facing a very modern car.

The dimensions are those of a versatile vehicle: 4.5 m long, 1.84 m wide and 1.64 m high, with a well-proportioned wheelbase of almost 2.7 meters, which guarantees ample interior space. The use of clean surfaces and slightly squared wheel arches, which give it a robust stance, is still impressive, as are the three-dimensional taillights, which make it look a little wider.

Upon entering the cabin, the quality is immediately noticeable. The star of the show is the BMW Curved Display, a dual screen that seamlessly integrates the 10-inch instrument panel with the nearly 11-inch infotainment system under a single curved glass panel. The BMW Operating System 8.0 is the electronic brain of this system, reacting quickly and smoothly to ensure a tranquil driving experience. Below the central screen, a floating center console is another highlight of this generation, offering extra storage space at the bottom, which proves extremely useful. This is further enhanced by the trays in the doors that can accommodate large bottles. Even at first glance, the materials used also convey a sense of impeccable quality, with soft-touch plastics (except in the lower sections) and a level of fit and finish that promises to stand the test of time.

The spaciousness of the interior stands out as one of its strengths. In the rear, a 1.80 m tall passenger still has six fingers of width between their knees and the backrest of the front seat, and five fingers of width from their head to the roof. Four adults travel with a level of comfort typical of higher segments. Even five people can travel comfortably, as the center console isn't very high, and the seating position isn't too high, although it's true that the backrest (the armrest, when folded down) feels a bit firm. The rear seats slide on rails to better distribute space between passengers and luggage, and they also recline in different positions. This versatility is nothing new, but it allows the trunk, which is already quite spacious with 540 liters and a double floor, to be adapted to different cargo needs. Thus, the feeling in terms of space is that a family with two teenagers who travel frequently doesn't need to resort to an X3, as this X1 has more than enough space.

Under the hood, this sDrive18d version hides a two-liter, four-cylinder engine that delivers 150 hp. The absence of any hybrid system simplifies the mechanics compared to 48-volt options, but, on the other hand, forces the driver to forgo the benefits of the Eco label. Torque reaches 360 Nm from low revs, and the way the power is delivered, without being excessive, provides a pleasant feeling of strength. This engine is coupled to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that sends power exclusively to the front wheels (hence the sDrive designation, not xDrive). To make gear changes more engaging, the car has paddle shifters on the steering wheel, which are certainly useful, but inexplicably small, making them easier to use for those with slightly longer fingers.

4.6 l/100 km on the highway...The performance figures are more than adequate for the car's intended purpose. Its top speed is 210 km/h and it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.9 seconds. However, what is truly impressive (especially now that diesel sales are in the minority) is its fuel consumption. Driving on the highway at permitted speeds, with the car fully loaded with luggage and four people, this X1 recorded only 4.6 l/100 km. This number suggests a range of almost 1,000 km and, once again, makes us reconsider the advantages of diesel.

The BMW X1 sDrive18d (diesel) boasts a remarkable range, with recent models (U11) registering around 900 km in the WLTP cycle and previous models (F48) capable of exceeding 1,200 km, thanks to low fuel consumption (approx. 4.1 L/100km in extra-urban driving). The tank capacity generally varies between 45 and 61 liters.

Highlights of range and consumption (below):

Model U11 (newest): Average consumption of 5 L/100km (approx. 20 km/l) and an estimated range of around 900 km.

Model F48 (previous): High efficiency, with extra-urban consumption of 3.7 L/100km and a total range that can exceed 1,200 km.

Fuel tank: Tank capacity varies, with models citing 61 liters or 45 liters, directly affecting maximum range.

The driving dynamics maintain the brand's DNA. The suspension strikes an excellent balance between the firmness needed to prevent body roll and the shock absorption capacity expected of a car designed to comfortably transport the whole family. The steering is direct and precise, as, at the ideal speed for an SUV (and even a little faster), it positions the front end exactly where you want it. Furthermore, the brakes offer a firm feel on the pedal, allowing you to modulate braking force with confidence. And, to top it off, the car has good sound insulation, keeping mechanical and aerodynamic noise away from the occupants' ears.

Opt for a mild hybrid...The standard equipment of this model in Spain is more than sufficient. It includes 17-inch alloy wheels, a leather sports steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a parking assistance system with a reversing camera. It also features adaptive cruise control and an emergency braking system, among other features. The starting price is €46,850, a value justified by the overall quality of the vehicle. However, it's not a bad idea to opt for the sDrive20d version, which costs €48,550. This is not due to the increase in power to 163 hp, but rather to the inclusion of a 48V mild hybrid system, which allows it to obtain the "Eco" label from the DGT (General Directorate of Transport).

Autonews

 

AUTONEWS

Adaptive cruise control in most cars may miss Queensland's 2-second safety gap

Adaptive cruise control (ACC) systems in many of the most popular cars in Queensland might not adhere to the State Government's safe following distance recommendations, according to new research from the University of the Sunshine Coast. ACC is a feature in modern cars that adjusts a driver's selected cruising speed to maintain a designated gap with the car ahead.

The study, led by Dr. Michelle Nicolls from the MAIC/UniSC Road Safety Research Collaboration and published in Transportation Research Part F: Traffic Psychology and Behaviour, found that just 2 of the 20 car manufacturers analyzed had available settings that expressly followed Queensland guidelines.

"The Queensland Government recommends maintaining at least a two-second gap between you and the vehicle in front," Dr. Nicolls said. "But the majority of vehicle manuals explored in our study either did not specify what gap they employed or used meters to describe gap distances, which may make it difficult for drivers to set their car to follow the guidelines.

"Drivers trusting their ACC system to maintain the correct following distance are not only risking their safety—they might be breaking Queensland law if following too closely to the vehicle in front.

"It's possible that many drivers aren't aware of the discrepancy, given the lack of clarity and specifics listed in car manuals."

It's not the only unsafe way motorists might be using the technology either. "This technology has several limitations—with many manuals recommending ACC be switched off under poor driving conditions like rain, fog and glare," Dr. Nicolls said. "And we know from previous research that more than 50% of motorists will still use ACC in poor conditions, despite manufacturer recommendations."

This technology is also limited in heavy congestion, and frequent stopping and starting traffic. "These are high-risk areas associated with rear-end crashes; however, the use of ACC may not be appropriate in these places," she said. "It's important that motorists understand the limitations of these technologies and consider whether they're using them properly.

"ACC might be convenient as a driving tool but it's not a substitute for safety. Drivers still need to exercise good judgment and caution."

Provided by University of the Sunshine Coast

GM

New Chevrolet Sonic

General Motors has prepared a new Chevrolet Sonic for the South American market, with which it will compete with models such as the Volkswagen Nivus, Fiat Pulse and Renault Kardian.

Measuring 423 cm long, 177 cm wide and 153 cm high, the Sonic tries to balance sporty proportions with good use of interior space. There are no pictures of the interior yet, but it is said that the Sonic will raise the bar compared to the Onix. The most important feature is the Virtual Cockpit system, which integrates a digital instrument cluster and multimedia system into a single unit.

GM chose Brazil for the world premiere of the Chevrolet Sonic, reinforcing the model's relevance as the brand's main launch in South America this year.

The project introduces a new SUV coupe concept to the compact car segment, incorporating sophisticated vehicle dynamics, a strong visual presence, and a level of detail previously seen only in higher-category vehicles.

Sales begin in May, supported by a communication strategy that reinforces the product's positioning and highlights its main attribute: its striking design. The car's first film features the tagline "It won't leave your head," with the hit song "Can't Get Out of My Mind" as its soundtrack.

The Sonic was developed entirely in a virtual environment. It originates from a process driven by artificial intelligence that optimizes the collaborative work of engineers and designers from the initial stages, refining body proportions and surfaces in an integrated way. This method allows structural and aesthetic decisions to evolve with greater precision.

Drawing inspiration from models like the Chevrolet Equinox EV, the project proposes a contemporary design, aligned with an increasingly technology-driven urban environment and, at the same time, with the expectations of consumers seeking differentiation to express their personality.

At the front, the Sonic adopts the latest design language of Chevrolet's global SUVs. The higher front end establishes a solid base for the overall design, while the creases on the hood direct the eye towards the center of the vehicle and enhance the perception of width.

The elements are arranged horizontally, with the grille divided into two well-defined levels: the lower portion concentrates the greater visual volume, and the upper portion connects to the LED daytime running lights. This luminous signature reinforces the model's identity and incorporates multiple functions (DRL and turn signal) in a single element, allowing the rest of the front to be resolved with greater precision and less aesthetic interference.

The main headlight uses a projector for high and low beams, a feature that guarantees almost 20% greater illumination power than conventional systems and, at the same time, allows for a discreet opening at the bottom to aid in brake cooling and contribute to aerodynamic efficiency. Another bold solution is the auxiliary fog lights, treated in a minimalist way in the spoiler area, so as not to compete with the other elements.

Also noteworthy is the multi-piece bumper, with different surfaces and color combinations, such as high-gloss black, matte black, and the body color in the top-of-the-line RS version. Crowning the ensemble, the Sonic debuts Chevrolet's updated bowtie, more horizontal and with a black application. The illuminated option is one of more than 70 accessories designed for the car.

It is in the side view that the SUV coupe concept is fully revealed. The arched silhouette leads the design to the rear with a more pronounced slope than in traditional SUVs, while the elongated rear portion of the body differentiates it from adventure hatchbacks. In the Sonic, the roof rack has a load capacity of up to 50 kg.

The moldings that surround the entire base of the vehicle, including the fenders, reinforce its robustness, protecting the most exposed areas, and also help to convey the impression that the car exceeds almost 20 cm of ground clearance. The 17-inch wheels have an exclusive design for each version of the product and can receive red accents inspired by Chevrolet's Redline editions.

At the rear, the Sonic intensifies the perception of width through a transverse organization of the elements. The LED taillights, with a three-dimensional construction, extend slightly beyond the body plane and form a segmented bar, creating a technically-oriented light signature.

The more inclined rear window does not compromise visibility, while the extension of the tailgate optimizes the trunk capacity. Wide and clean surfaces predominate, supported by choices such as the positioning of the license plate in the lower region of the bumper and the concealment of the luggage compartment opening mechanism or the exhaust outlet. All of this avoids visual interruptions and allows for a precise reading of the proportions. Meanwhile, the aerodynamic package helps control airflow in the area, balancing efficiency and acoustic comfort.

The cabin features a unique volume, designed for optimal balance in space between front and rear passengers, from head to toe. The horizontal lines of the dashboard visually widen the interior, which is characterized by a high-tech atmosphere. The highlight here is Chevrolet's Virtual Cockpit System, which combines a digital instrument panel with advanced multimedia connectivity.

Areas of the dashboard, steering wheel, seats, and central and side armrests feature soft-touch coverings with exclusive finishes and a level of sophistication similar to that of the brand's larger utility vehicles.

One example is the premium seat covers with an extra layer of foam, inherited from the Tracker. This solution helps to better mold to the body, enhancing the feeling of comfort, especially on long journeys.

The multifunction steering wheel displays the updated Chevrolet logo in the center and features Black Piano inserts to surround the shortcut controls for the audio system and Chevrolet Intelligent Driving. All of this provides a connection between technology and the tactile experience of the driver. The higher driving position completes this package, offering excellent visibility and the control associated with SUVs.

Regardless of the trim level, the vehicle name emblems and the "Turbo" engine badge are black.

According to the report, the Sonic is not intended to be just another compact SUV on the market. With a more emotional appeal, the model represents a significant shift in General Motors' strategy in Brazil.

A key new feature will be the debut of a new intelligent driving system, with sophisticated advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

Although Chevrolet has not yet released official details, it is expected that the Sonic will use the 1.0-liter three-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine from the Chevrolet Onix, which has 116 hp.

Official sales of the Sonic will start in May.

by Autonews

HONDA 

Consumer Reports: 2026 Honda Prelude

The Honda Prelude is back for 2026, taking some of the best parts of the Civic lineup--specifically, the Civic Hybrid's drivetrain and the Civic Type R's confident-handling suspension design--and combining them in a sport compact coupe. While most of its 200-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid drivetrain is shared with the Civic Hybrid, the Prelude adds paddle shifters that allow the driver to row through simulated gear shifts. Like its predecessors from decades ago, the Prelude has a 2+2 interior layout, and we expect the back seat to be better used for cargo or small children accordingly. Inside, you'll find aggressively bolstered front bucket seats, Google built-in services including a voice assistant and Google Maps, and thankfully, an array of straightforward physical controls. We like that key active safety features, including blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning, are standard.

The new generation measures 4.67 meters in length, 1.80 meters in width, 1.43 meters in height, and has a wheelbase of 2.73 meters. Compared to the Civic hybrid sedan, the coupe is longer and lower, but maintains similar proportions in the wheelbase. The trunk capacity is smaller: 264 liters in the Prelude, compared to 495 liters in the sedan, a difference expected due to its more sporty design.

Compared to the eleventh-generation Civic Type R, which measures 4,598 mm in length, 1,890 mm in width, and has a wheelbase of 2,735 mm, the Prelude is longer, but 88 mm narrower. The trunk is also smaller: the Type R offers 337 liters, or 73 liters more than the new Prelude.

When the Consumer Reports test staff got together to discuss our thoughts on the new 2026 Honda Prelude, there was one thing we couldn’t stop talking about: what other cars we’d buy instead. Our verdict was universal, with agreement that it’s fine enough as a shorter-wheelbase coupe version of the Civic Hybrid, but it should be priced as such. Honda markets the Prelude as a sporty, upmarket compact coupe, yet this version isn’t fun enough or highly optioned enough to justify its high $43,195 starting price (including its $1,195 destination fee). 

Pricing aside, the new Prelude is a generally pleasant car, with sporty styling, nimble handling, easy-to-use controls, and excellent fuel economy. Like its prior iterations, it takes advantage of the wider Honda parts bin to create a unique two-door model. The 2026 model borrows heavily from the current Civic lineup, pairing the Civic Hybrid’s powertrain with chassis components from the high-performance Civic Type R. 

All Preludes come with a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder gasoline engine mated to a dual-motor hybrid system, good for a combined 200 hp and 232 lb.-ft. of torque. The Prelude doesn’t have a traditional transmission, instead using one of its electric motors to drive the front wheels while the second motor charges the hybrid battery. In certain situations, the engine can also connect directly to the front wheels.

The Prelude features several higher-end touches, including adaptive dampers, a Bose premium audio system, and leather-trimmed heated front sport seats. The infotainment system includes many popular Google services built-in, including Google Maps, a voice assistant, and downloadable apps through the Google Play store. Honda markets two trims for the Prelude: a base Hybrid and a slightly more expensive Hybrid Two-Tone, which is primarily an appearance package with Winter Frost Pearl white paint, a white and blue leather interior, a black roof, and black mirror caps. Everything else is identical. 

Consumer Reports recently purchased its own 2026 Honda Prelude. It only has one added-cost option: $655 for the Two-Tone trim’s Winter Frost Pearl paint. 

If you’re a Consumer Reports member, our initial expert assessment of the Honda Prelude is available to you below. We completed the 2,000 break-in miles, and are now putting the Prelude we purchased through more than 50 tests at the Consumer Reports Auto Test Center, including empirical measurements of acceleration, braking, handling, car-seat fit, and usability. Consumer Reports members will have access to the full road-test results as soon as they’re available.

If you haven’t signed up to be a member yet, click below and become a member to access this full article and all our exclusive ratings and reviews for each vehicle we buy and test. 

The 2026 Honda Prelude marks the triumphant return of one of the brand's most iconic coupes, now reinvented as a hybrid model focused on efficiency and style.

Model Highlights (below):

Engine: Uses the e:HEV 2.0 hybrid system, the same as the Civic Hybrid, delivering approximately 203 hp of power and 32.1 kgfm of torque.

Performance: Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in about 6 to 7 seconds. The drive is exclusively front-wheel drive (FWD).

Technology and Interior: Features a 10.2-inch digital instrument panel, a 9-inch multimedia system with native Google, and a Bose sound system. The interior finish features soft-touch materials and leather or suede seats.

Dynamics: Despite being focused on efficiency, it inherits performance components such as the front suspension and Brembo brakes from the Civic Type R. It also features the S+ Shift system, which simulates gear changes and engine sound for a sportier experience.

Autonews

VW

Volkswagen ID. Aura T6: a Chinese VW

Volkswagen has unveiled the new ID. Aura T6 crossover and the ID. Unyx 09 sedan, new electric cars developed for China.

They are reportedly set to hit the market soon, as the German automaker aims to strengthen its position in the NEV segment by introducing over 20 products in the segment.

The ID. Aura is a series of electric cars developed by the FAW-Volkswagen joint venture with the integration of electrical and electronic architecture CEA, jointly developed by the German company and Xpeng.

The ID. Aura T6 is a mid-size crossover with a five-seat interior layout. This is the brand's first vehicle with the integration of the electronic CEA architecture. It reportedly reduces the number of electronic control units by 30%. This architecture also supports artificial intelligence-based cockpit systems, China-specific driver assistance functions and OTA update capabilities.

The new crossover features a LiDAR-based driver assistance system from Carizon, a joint venture between the Volkswagen Group and Horizon Robotics.

ID. The Aura T6 has short overhangs, a slightly curved roofline and semi-hidden door handles.

The vehicle adopts a BEV powertrain, but its dimensions and other specifications are yet to be revealed.

Volkswagen only states that more information about this model will be revealed closer to the launch. 

The Volkswagen ID. Aura T6 is a 5-seater electric SUV developed for the Chinese market in partnership with FAW-VW, focused on urban families and high connectivity. The prototype, which debuts in 2026, stands out for its more angular design and use of local technology, including possible collaboration with Xpeng.

Main highlights of the ID. Aura T6:

Partnership and production: Developed by the FAW-Volkswagen joint venture.

Concept: Family SUV (5 seats) with a focus on long-distance and practicality.

Design: Presents a more traditional SUV look than the current ID. line, with a straighter and more robust front.

Technology: Adopts the CEA electronic architecture system, and the model should integrate LiDAR sensor technology for intelligent driving.

Platform: Based on the Compact Main Platform (CMP), with rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) options.

Autonews

TUNNING

BMW M5 G90 G-Power

The new BMW M5 G90 has undergone extreme tuning by G-Power, boosting the hybrid sedan's power to 1,013 horsepower and 1,200 Nm of torque. The complete upgrade package costs €31,297, making this one of the most radical projects in the modern automotive segment for 2026.

Even in its standard version, the BMW M5 G90 delivers 727 horsepower and 1,000 Nm, but the tuners wanted to unlock the potential of the hybrid platform. The result is a gain of almost 300 horsepower, taking the model into hyper-sedan territory. Customers can choose from several upgrade stages—ranging from 850 to 1,000 horsepower—allowing them to balance cost and performance.

The top-tier version includes not only software adjustments but also significant hardware changes. The package features sporty exhaust pipes with catalytic converters, a new GP-Deeptone exhaust system, upgraded intercoolers, and a carbon fiber air intake. This configuration improves engine cooling, increases airflow efficiency, and reduces exhaust backpressure, which is crucial for stable operation under high loads.

The base performance is already impressive: the standard M5 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds. With the 1,000 horsepower version, the main improvement is expected in acceleration above 100 km/h, where the extra power plays a key role.

The basis of the tuning package for the BMW M5, now a G5M Bi-Turbo, consists of extensive modifications to the V8 engine and its peripherals: it begins with an Eventuri carbon fiber air intake and a more powerful intercooler to supply as much cold air as possible to the combustion chambers. A fraction of a second later, the air is released through downpipes with 200-cell catalytic converters to the Deeptone exhaust system with valve control, where it also contributes significantly to the sound experience.

This project highlights the potential of hybrid V8s in the electrification era. Despite the shift to electric vehicles, these cars show that internal combustion engines still have untapped capabilities. Competitors like Mercedes-AMG and Porsche are also advancing with hybrid systems, but this power level remains rare even in the premium segment.

The tuning of the BMW M5 G90 to 1,000 horsepower is not just a demonstration of possibilities—it's a market signal that hybrid technology can compete with full-fledged supercars. The question is whether buyers are willing to pay for this level of performance.

It’s hardly a slouch in standard form, but Germany’s G-Power has increased the output of the G90 BMW M5’s engine to 1013 PS, or 999 hp. That’s up from the 727 horses with which the M5 leaves BMW’s Munich factory.

Furthermore, a more powerful intercooler is installed to keep the intake air well-cooled – crucial for consistent performance. The exhaust gases are then forced through exhaust pipes with 200-cell catalysts and reach a Deeptone exhaust system with valve control. This not only produces an incredible sound, but also ensures better flow. In other words: more power, a fuller sound, more excitement.

But not everyone needs 1,000 hp right away – that's why G-Power offers different levels of tuning. The entry-level option is 850 hp, which only requires a software update. And with a sports exhaust system, it's possible to reach 900 hp. Those who want 950 hp will also need new downpipes.

And for the complete upgrade of more than 1,000 hp, you will need an intercooler and a complete sports exhaust system. And, honestly, it wouldn't surprise anyone if it were possible to get even more power in the future.

Performance figures: Official numbers for the 1,000 hp version are not yet available, but just take a look at the standard model. The BMW M5 (G90) accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds and from 0 to 200 km/h in 10.9 seconds.

The M5 is a plug-in hybrid, and adds a 194-hp electric motor into the mix, but G-Power doesn’t mess with the electrics. Instead, its focus is purely on extracting as much as it can from internal combustion, with a focus on how the engine breathes in and out.

That’s achieved through the fitment of the company’s own downpipes with 200-cell sports catalysts, a Deeptone exhaust, higher-performance intercoolers, and an Eventuri carbon air intake. There’s also a GP-1000 software update. We haven’t heard it yet, but those intake and exhaust modifications are sure to add some acoustic entertainment to the proceedings.

Opting for the full 999 horsepower will set you around €35,000 or $41,160, but G-Power offers its G90 M5 upgrades in a number of stages. The new software delivers 850 PS (838 hp), then to see incremental 50-hp increases, you can add the sports silencer, downpipes, and then the whole kit and caboodle, including a 155 mph top-speed limiter delete.

G-Power hasn’t said what that top speed might be, nor made any other performance claims, as a matter of fact. A factory-spec M5 will accelerate from zero-to-62 mph in a scant 3.5 seconds, taking 10.9 seconds to reach 124 mph, and, with over 250 hp more than stock, the modded car should be significantly swifter.

The upgrades are available for both the M5 sedan and the long-roof Touring. Should you wish to advertise your M5’s extra oomph, G-Power offers a decal kit, while it can also add some color to the cabin with a leather and Alcantara re-trim.

Autonews

HYUNDAI

Hyundai Elantra N TCR Edition

Made to feel the adrenaline of a race car every day. The 2026 Hyundai Elantra N TCR Edition arrives as the embodiment of Hyundai's victorious legacy in motorsport, bringing the indomitable spirit of the TCR (Touring Car Racing) tracks to the streets. Inspired by the race car that dominated world championships, this high-performance sedan combines cutting-edge technology, aggressive design, and an electrifying driving experience that promises to win the hearts of 'N-thusiasts' – those passionate about Hyundai's N performance division.

The compact sedan Hyundai Elantra received a “cracked” N version in 2021, presented almost simultaneously with the racing model, the Elantra N TCR, prepared for various touring championships. Since participation in races is a great advertisement for road cars, a special version of the sports sedan – legal for road use, called the Elantra N TCR Edition, was announced in 2024.

The interior of the special edition Hyundai Elantra N TCR is abundantly decorated with Alcantara, which is used for the seat inserts, as well as for the gearshift and brake levers. Alcantara also covers the steering wheel with a zero position mark and the armrest. In addition to the mark on the steering wheel, the recognizable blue shade is also found on the seat belts, door sills and other small details.

After the Elantra N TCR Edition debuted in the domestic Korean market last year, it is now offered in the US at a very attractive price. The main difference between the special edition of the Elantra N TCR and the regular N-versions is the huge carbon fiber rear wing, which is finely tuned and similar to the aerodynamic element on the racing models. However, a closer look shows that there are differences on the wing.

Another feature of the special edition are lightweight 19-inch forged wheels. Interestingly, the rims for the Korean market are painted white, while in the US they are “darkened”. Up front, four-piston monobloc brakes are installed, paired with two-piece discs. The N TCR Edition version is available exclusively in the Performance Blue exterior color, recognizable for the Hyundai N division.

The special edition of the TCR inherited the powertrain from the standard Elantra N, without any modifications. In the “nose” is the same 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine that produces 280 hp and 392 Nm. Two transmissions are available: the 6-speed manual is equipped with a system that automatically increases the crankshaft speed during downshifts to avoid jerks, while the 8-speed N-DCT automatic has “rocker” paddles on the steering wheel and three operating modes.

These are the standard N Power Shift, the track-focused N Track Sense Shift and the most extreme N Green Shift. Front-wheel drive is supplemented by an electronically controlled limited-slip differential. The automatic version comes with Launch Control for maximum performance at takeoff: with it, acceleration from 0 to 60 mph (0-96 km/h) takes 5.3 seconds.

In the US, the Hyundai Elantra N TCR special edition costs from $ 39,250 (€ 33,375) for the manual transmission version. The model with a dual-clutch automatic transmission starts at $ 40,750 (€ 34,650).

Autonews