While the 24H Nürburgring primarily draws attention to the GT3 titans, performance enthusiasts are closely monitoring a particular entry in the SP4T class: the Hyundai ELANTRA N1 RP. Following Hyundai’s announcement of its eleventh participation in the 24H Nürburgring, the company’s N performance division teased us with a new engine that is expected to commence testing. Hyundai N’s upcoming new powertrain is set to debut in the next-generation Elantra N, which is anticipated to be released in late 2027.
What is the ELANTRA N1 RP?
The “RP” designation stands for Race Prototype. Hyundai has confirmed that these vehicles (#2 and #3) are powered by a pre-production engine designed with improved power, sharper response, and enhanced race capability—all while meeting modern emissions standards.
By entering the SP4T class, which is specifically for turbocharged engines, Hyundai is putting this hardware through 24 hours of non-stop, high-stress evaluation.
History Repeats: From Track to Street
The automotive world has seen this playbook before. In 2016, Hyundai raced a prototype 2.0T engine at the Nürburgring. That engine became the legendary Theta unit found in the i30 N, the Veloster N, and eventually the Elantra N.
The current test of the N1 RP suggests a similar trajectory. While official specs remain under wraps, the objective is clear: endurance. If this prototype can survive 24 hours of the “Green Hell,” it is virtually guaranteed to be the powerhouse for the next generation of road-going N cars.
What to Expect in the Next Elantra N
Given the timing of this test and the “improved power” characteristics mentioned by the team, the ELANTRA N1 RP likely represents the next-generation Hyundai N engine. We can expect:
- Higher Power Ceiling: Enhanced internals capable of sustaining higher boost levels.
- Faster Response: Refined turbocharger technology to eliminate lag.
- Future-Proofing: A design that balances high output with the world’s strictest emissions requirements.
The Development Team
The development of this engine is being spearheaded by a world-class driver roster. Car #2 features Mikel Azcona and Manuel Lauck alongside Mark Wallenwein and Youngchan Kim. Car #3 sees Wallenwein return with Gyumin Kim, Woojin Shin, and CJ Sepulveda. Their feedback will be instrumental in tuning the engine that will likely debut in the next-generation Elantra N.
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