The Chinese market will also get the Mufasa compact SUV
The debut of the new Elantra N marks the entrance of Hyundai N on Chinese soil. PHOTO FROM HYUNDAI
Hyundai may be number one in South Korea, but that isn’t the case in China, as there is still a lot to be done to further elevate the brand in Asia’s largest market.
That’s why for the 2023 Shanghai Auto Show, Hyundai signaled the entry of its N brand by revealing the new Elantra N. No specs have been given, but this high-performance model is based on the recently face-lifted sedan.
Do you like the red accents that adorn the Elantra N? PHOTOS FROM HYUNDAI
More importantly, Hyundai will be introducing the N brand to the Chinese market via specialized marketing campaigns. Given that these cars were made for the circuit, Hyundai will be having monthly track days across the country so people can experience the goodness from Namyang.
You can’t separate high performance from motorsports, which is why Hyundai will be competing in the 2023 TCR China Touring Car Championship in May, in conjunction with the track-day customer-experience event. Also, there are plans next year for a one-make race competition as well as the Hyundai N e-Sports Racing Challenge to hook even more people and turn them into “N-thusiasts.”
We have no clue why Hyundai chose the name 'Mufasa' for a Chinese SUV. PHOTO FROM HYUNDAI
While sports cars are nice, Hyundai also needs a moneymaker to keep itself afloat. And that’s where the Hyundai Mufasa comes into play. This compact SUV was specifically designed for the Chinese market, and it seems like it will be going up against the likes of the Ford Territory.
It has a 2.0-liter gasoline engine with a maximum output of 158hp and 183Nm. Measuring 4,475mm long, 1,850mm wide, and 1,665mm high, this SUV has a wheelbase of 2,680mm and a trunk capacity of 450L.
In addition to a 12.3-inch infotainment system to play your favorite songs from The Lion King, the Mufasa is also equipped with a PM2.5 air purification system, which is something the Chinese will need to filter out all the air pollution.
Hyundai has a total of 20 vehicles on display in Shanghai. PHOTO FROM HYUNDAI
Seeing Hyundai’s efforts to bring N cars to China, do you wish Hyundai Motor Philippines would do the same here?
Keyword: The new Hyundai Elantra N debuts at 2023 Shanghai Auto Show