The more powerful Hyundai Elantra N TCR is still priced $7,500 lower than the Civic Type R.

      Hyundai

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      Finding positive news regarding car prices can be challenging, but Hyundai has just provided some. On Thursday, the manufacturer revealed the pricing for the 2026 Elantra N TCR Edition—a more aggressive version of the sport compact sedan—and the figures look favorable.

      Similar to the standard Elantra N, the TCR Edition comes with either a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic. The price starts at $40,495 for the manual, including the mandatory $1,245 destination charge, while the dual-clutch variant costs $41,995 with destination. Thus, opting for the manual transmission saves you money. That’s the first piece of good news.

      The second bit of good news is that, although the TCR Edition is priced at $4,150 more than the standard Elantra N, it remains $7,595 cheaper than the Honda Civic Type R and $1,000 less expensive than the Toyota GR Corolla—both of which have seen price increases during their availability. While the Hyundai produces less power than the two competitors, with its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine generating 276 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque, it still holds its ground and is also $5,745 less than a comparably powerful Subaru WRX tS, even considering that model's new reduced pricing.

      The TCR Edition features some notable components, starting with a large swan-neck rear wing, inspired by that of the Elantra N TCR race car, which is admittedly a bit extreme. It also includes 19-inch forged alloy wheels designed to support four-piston monobloc brake calipers, which grip two-piece front rotors unique to the TCR Edition. Cosmetic upgrades comprise an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, shifter and handbrake boots, center console armrest, Performance Blue seatbelts, and specific badging. Performance Blue is the required color option.

      Hyundai indicates that the TCR Edition will be produced in limited quantities but did not specify the extent of that limitation. The TCR Edition serves as a sort of reverse homologation special, celebrating the Elantra N TCR’s success in the worldwide TCR class, which includes six consecutive manufacturers’ championships for Hyundai in the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge series’ TCR category. Rather than certifying the TCR race car for competition, the TCR Edition acts as a victory celebration with a Monroney.

      Even as a limited edition, the TCR Edition underscores the excellence of the Elantra N. It has consistently offered great value in the performance car market, and the refresh for the 2024 model year has improved it both in appearance and functionality. It's easy to overlook this when news about a model is sparse, which is why limited editions are significant for enhancing visibility while (ideally) boosting performance as well.