The 2025 Hyundai Elantra N is brings a refresh to the model. I had previously driven the pre-face lifted version with a manual transmission. This time up for review, I had the 8-speed wet Dual-Clutch Transmission w/ Paddle Shifters

Although I prefer the more unique headlight styling of the pre-face lift model, the new one still looks great. It even caught the attention of a neighbor that admitted to not caring for cars other than to get to from point A to point B. I could tell that many people were surprised by how aggressive styling a Hyundai vehicle would have.

The biggest difference between the previous one I reviewed and this one was the transmission. As a manual transmission enthusiast, I’d hate to say it but the automatic in this Elantra N was better than the manual. There is an asterisks though, and that would apply to the feel of things. If you’re wanting to take your Elantra N to the track, the automatic will be faster and perform incredibly well. If your goal is to be more engaged with what the Elantra N is doing, you’ll want to opt for the manual transmission. I think after having driven both, I think I’d have to go with the automatic because the Elantra N was making me wish I was driving it on the track.