Racing Beyond Trophies
The beauty of manufacturers competing in motorsports is that races can be used to develop and validate powertrains that may eventually make their way into road-going models. That's exactly what Hyundai plans to do with a new high-performance engine set to be publicly tested at the Nürburgring 24 Hours.
Hyundai has not disclosed many details, but the engine is expected to power future N models. In a press release, the Korean marque said the day-long race will serve as a real-world test of the engine’s performance and durability. In other words, it could be a major validation moment, especially if the cars complete the race without reliability issues.
A Prototype Under Pressure
The pre-production engine will power two Elantra N1 RP cars in the SP4T class. Hyundai says it features “improved power and response characteristics with enhanced race capability while meeting current emissions standards.” For reference, the current Elantra N uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four producing 276 horsepower.
The “T” in SP4T suggests the upcoming engine will use forced induction, while the class allows up to 2.6 liters of displacement. Whether Hyundai has increased displacement remains unclear, but it would not be surprising to see output climb to around 300 horsepower. That would still trail the Honda Civic Type R’s 315 horsepower, but it would be a welcome upgrade for future Hyundai N buyers.
In addition to the two Elantra N1 RP entries, Hyundai will field one Elantra N TCR in the TCR class as it seeks a sixth straight class victory. The main race, scheduled for May 16 to 17, will also mark the automaker’s 11th consecutive appearance at the event.
A Track Record That Matters
Hyundai has used this approach before. In 2016, the company entered an i30 fitted with a prototype 2.0-liter Theta engine. After the car completed the 24-hour race, the i30 N was introduced in 2017, which marked the start of its performance N lineup.
Over the next three to four years, Hyundai reportedly plans to add more N models. That could make the brand more competitive with Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division, which already has a broad performance portfolio that includes the GR86 and the upcoming GR GT halo car. With the automaker describing the program as “A New Era Begins,” it will be worth watching how the new powertrain performs in one of motorsport’s toughest proving grounds next month.
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