 or the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic (DCT).){kind=link}
The 2025 Hyundai Elantra N continues to be a top choice for enthusiasts who want a fun, affordable performance sedan. With a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine pushing out 276 horsepower, the Elantra N delivers plenty of thrills whether you opt for the six-speed manual transmission (MT) or the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic (DCT). But which transmission is the better pick? Let’s break it down.
Performance & Driving Experience
Manual Transmission (MT): The Purist’s Choice
If you love being fully engaged while driving, the six-speed manual transmission is a no-brainer. Here’s why:
✅ More Driver Engagement – You control every shift, making each drive more exciting.
✅ Lighter Weight – The MT version is slightly lighter, which helps with handling.
✅ Rev-Matching – Standard feature for smoother downshifts and a sportier feel.
✅ Cost Savings – Typically, the manual is the cheaper option.
However, there’s a trade-off. The 0-60 mph time is slightly slower compared to the DCT because shifting manually isn’t as fast as an automated gearbox.
Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT): The Speed Demon
The eight-speed DCT is all about speed and convenience. It offers:
✅ Lightning-Fast Shifts – No manual can match how quickly a dual-clutch can swap gears.
✅ Launch Control – Helps maximize traction and acceleration.
✅ Better Daily Drive Comfort – Perfect for city driving and stop-and-go traffic.
✅ Faster 0-60 Times – Expect around 4.9 seconds, compared to the manual’s 5.3 seconds.
The downside? It adds a bit more weight and costs more, both at purchase and for potential maintenance.
Which One Should You Get?
- Go for the Manual if you love a raw, connected driving experience and don’t mind rowing your own gears. It’s also the better choice for track days where control matters more than outright speed.
- Choose the DCT if you want the fastest possible acceleration, smoother daily driving, and tech features like launch control.
Final Verdict
Both versions of the 2025 Hyundai Elantra N are fantastic, but it comes down to what kind of driver you are. If you crave total control, the manual is your best bet. If you want speed and convenience, the DCT is the way to go. Either way, you’re getting one of the best sport compact sedans of 2025.
Which one would you pick? Let us know in the comments!