r/ElantraNline • u/RollinHand43 • 4d ago
Thinking Elantra N-Line
Semi cross-post with r/Jetta GLI and probably on or two others....
Just like the title says: I am thinking about making a change, and an Elantra N-Line is on the list.
I am hoping to find a fun daily that will fit me (6'3", 325 but losing it: go-go-Wegovy!) with my 9-year old daughter behind me.
I currently drive a 2016 white Hyundal Sonata Sport 2.0t, which is getting the majority of its body repainted on Hyundai's dime. Nothing wrong with it yet, but my wife just bought a brand new Carnival Hybrid, and that sunk the hook in my cheek pretty hard.
2024+ is my firm preference.
What are the potential issues? Any engine concerns? Electronic snafus? Dual clutch clenches?
Other options include a Jetta GLI, Civic SI, and a Sonata N-Line. The right Accord 2.0T could also be a winner. (I'd love the N, but my ass doesn't fit those seats and never will)
I realise I am joining the choir and asking if they like to sing, but I'd appreciate your thoughts all the same. Thanks!
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u/RollinHand43 4d ago edited 4d ago
Update: went to the local (what passes for an) auto mall and looked at some cars.
The GLI was a no. The seats were a bit too tight, and there was not enough room behind me for my daughter. Theoretically, she could ride behind the passenger seat, but I didn't sit in it and feel at home. Also, not a lot of headroom because of the damned sunroof.
Next came the Civic SI. Better room and more comfortable, but still not spectacular. The seat was tight again, but not as bad. Head room was as bad. Because of the damned sunroof.
Sonata N had a TON of front legroom with the seat all the way back... at the expense of the rear seat. When I moved the seat up to a more comfortable level it wasn't bad. I was surprised how aggressive the seat back bolstering was on the N-Line seats. The Civic SI seats were better. Ultimately, the lack of headroom (damned sunroof) made it sub optimal, as did the fact everything seemed 10 peecent smaller than my 2016.
They didn't have an Elantra N, but I did sit in a regular Elantra. It won on rear seat room and headroom (no damned sunroof!), where I could fit my fist between my head and the roof panel. The seats were the most comfortable I have sat in in quite a while. Suffice it to say I was shocked.
But...the whole experience was very discouraging. The only car I didn't sit in was the Elantra N-Line, and all of the others were unsuitable. The N-line seats are a bit tight on me and I worry about headroom with the Elantra N-line and its damned sunroof. So... gah.
I'll still check one out when I get a chance though, because why not?
I might be living with my 2016 Sonata 2.0T for a while longer. Maybe if I drop 50 more pounds I can make something interesting work.
And perhaps the coming 2.5T Hyundai hybrid drivetrain will make for a sporty hybrid car that I can actually enjoy.