PERFORMANCE CAR CHALLENGE: Hyundai Elantra N vs. Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. Honda Civic Si vs. Subaru BRZ 

Cheap speed might not be as cheap as it used to be, but there's still plenty of fun to be had at a moderately affordable price point. Are there any other fun cars you'd like us to test that won't break the bank? Let us know in the comments below!

The Civic SI's advertised horsepower has not changed by more than 8 horsepower in 18 years. Honda definitely needs to bump that power to modern, competitive levels.

No need to find out. We already know alot of professional TCR drivers have shifted away from the Type R platform and turned to the Elantra N. And to no surprise they have been winning. We need to stop living in the past and saying "its a Hyundai though" Albert Biermann has paved the way for Hyundai's success and I'm happy to ride with it.

The smile you get driving the Elantra N is for real. I test drove all these cars and the Elantra was the only to make me smile like a little kid. It still makes me smile every morning a year later

Recently I went to test drive 2 sport cars that received a lot of good reviews from auto magazines and You Tube reviewers: The '22 Subaru BRZ 6MT (similar to the GR86) & the Elantra N DCT, and these is what I noticed: GR86/BRZ: very light weight with great handling, quick engine, very precise shifter and good steering wheel, nice looking cockpit with analog displays, and great seating position, OK exhaust sound. And on the Elantra N. Crazy power, great nimble handling, DCT shifts were great, suspension adjustability was great, exhaust sound was OK, it made me felt nervous when other driver was driving it. For sure is way faster than the GR86/BRZ, great adjustability of features on the display and great seating position. It has better cabin space and trunk space. Some FWD jumping presence while stepping on the gas from a stop. A crazy entertaining ride.

Elantra N. My 24 yr old daughter bought her own brand new '22 Elantra N almost two years ago, as a present to herself for landing her first real job out of college. It's identical to this one but with the 8DCT. She tells me she has timed a 0-60 of 4.8 sec using the on-board timer, and I know other people have been able to do this with the 8DCT as well. The 6MT is *capable* of hitting 60 in a little over 5 sec, but 6.4 is probably a better reflection of how it accelerates when you care about clutch longevity, though. It's a great little car that can actually be very economical on road trips, too, while oozing character and punching above its price with all the right noises and a presence the others can't match, IMO. The exhaust pops and farts are the icing on top. It's a little too much for me these days but I realize I'm not the target buyer and that's fine. For the money, it's pretty hard to beat if you are looking for a car like this.

Using the RF was an interesting choice, surely 150 lbs above the center of gravity of a car isn't making it any faster.

You can't call yourself a performance car, with 0-60 close to 8 seconds The Civic Si has lost the plot

$100 for a haircut?! Yall wyln😂

Looks like there was a slight mistake. There is no way all 3 of those cars had the same 0-60

Great review! I have owned a Civic Si and now have a GR86. Your review is one of the only ones I have watched that tells it like it is - the GR86/BRZ tells you about the mistakes you make - and that is why we love it! But many reviewers, likely due to wanting to seem like pro drivers, don’t mention its nature. Cheers.

Thank Alber Bierrman from BMW M for the Elantra N , it drives like an M and punches way above its weight for the price. Does everything right daily driver/race car

Thank you guys for making a video like what Motortrend USED to be years and years ago.

The new MX-5 with less body roll is my fun pick. 2024 model

I'd still get the MX-5. More smiles to miles with the top down. Also that's last year's Miata, just sayin'.

You guys should have gotten a GTI as well.

Hail to Sir Albert Bierman! Hyundai is a track and driving monster. With the DCT, it would have been even faster. There’s no competition in this price range.

What Mode where you guys driving the Elantra N in??? Its by far the most customizable car from the dealer you can get out of these 4 cars!

Thank you guys for putting some respect to the Elantra N. I own a DCT model, and although this might not matter cause its more of a handling car, the 0-60 should be closer to around 5 seconds. Id say this car actually competes better with higher priced cars like the Type R and the GR Corolla but at the price point of the cars in this video. I'd love to see a video like that next. Thank you again 🎉

How is that track? I drive past it on my way to work all the time in my prius C.

Great video, I always wanted to know how the Elantra N performed VS the twins GR86/BRZ. Awsome!👍🤗

The 0-60 for the Elantra should have been much faster. Even without octane learning which i doubt it had. Otherwise nice review.

Great comparison! All 4 of these are competitive autocross cars in their classes too.

I own an ND Miata 1.5L, but I changed the wheels for a very lightweight Rays gramlights 57V and doing a down size from 16” stock to 15” tires on 205/55R15, then coil over HKS hyper max S with an customized sway bar with short stabilizer. I kept a fraction of the body roll and combined with chunk tires the ride around the mountains is just perfect! I’m quite happy with my set up…

You guys probably launched the Elantra N subpar at best to get a 6.4 0-60

Nicely done. My enthusiast car budget is around $60k and I ordered a BRZ tS. Just seems to be driving euphoria to me and well under budget. I also wouldn’t want a 4 door enthusiast car so that eliminates many options for me.

If you don’t care about practicality get the Mazda RF. There’s no other car like it on the market. Do NOT get hung up on horsepower figures. Driving fun is all about light weight, small dimensions and handling characteristics… the open air experience doesn’t hurt. I have a blast driving super cars from time to time but jumping back in my RF I’ve come to realize I have more fun in the Mazda.

The Civic hasn’t gotten any quicker? They’ve only gotten slower. It’s really a shame how slow it is now.

I’d say they offer different things for different people. All are super cool. I’ve had a couple Sis and they are really comfortable, fuel efficient (35-40mpg) and really fun to drive. Interior is well laid out. Never tracked it tho. GR86 was automatic but still really fun, sounded decent and held up well on track for a couple weekends until I traded it out. The Elantra N and Miata are cool but I’ve never had em. Great collection of cars here.

Does the 1.5 t Honda still have the oil dilution issue?

Great video. Would’ve liked to see a few things though: Add in cars which a lot of people feel can compete: Forte/Elantra Gt, WRX, and GTI Also it could’ve used more performance metrics like maybe braking distance and 1/4mi times to add to the tallying.

All of those cars are great. I'm a Mazda guy and own both an NB2 Miata and a mk3 Mazda3. I feel like an unadulterated driving experience is something I value quite a bit more than any other metric and the Miata consistently honours that with every generation. I really hope the next generation Mazda3 and Mazda6 can encompass more Miata driving purity with plug-in electrification and a double helping of lightness. I've never driven an 86/BRZ but it sounds like an amazing machine, and I was very close to considering a Civic Si before my wife dropped the "I need your next daily driver to be an automatic" bomb.

Great review. I have the 2023 EN 6MT. Just a little observation. but EN can get on the power earlier when coming out of last turn...its LSD works like magic.

How’s the sticky steering

For anyone considering these vehicles: While the Si has the weakest engine, I found the refinement, fuel economy, practicality, cabin, and (hopeful) reliability made it my choice. While the engine lacks character, I've found nothing to complain about in 4 months. A great sporty commuter sedan at an average 37 mpg. The Elantra N was such a strong 2nd choice, but Hyundai's reliability gave me pause.

this is really a tire test disguised as a car test. elantra has the best tires, followed by BRZ, followed by miata, followed by civic si. you put the same tire on all three and the order will 100% change.

Hyundai Elantra N is absolutely incredible for $34k! Twin scroll turbocharger, 290whp, front mount intercooler, ELSD, electronic suspension, overboost button, electronic valve exhaust system, drive modes, custom modes, exhaust backfires (valve open), launch control, 160 mph top speed, bucket seats and alot more ALL STOCK!!! What other vehicle can say the same!?!?! Fun ass vehicle!!

The Si is a dog out of the box but still really fun to drive because it’s so lightweight and has a great shifter. Luckily the Si is easy to tune. With summer tires and a tune the car feels completely different

The answer is Miata. The answer is always Miata. 💪

13:14 sums it up. You want a rwd get a gr86/brz. If not, elantra n all the way. :)

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is the only vehicle in this video that I would even consider purchasing. Ironically, without a $10K+ down payment and/or trade-in credit, these vehicles are more expensive than what the median income American in 2024 can afford on a reasonably healthy budget.

How did you get 6.4 seconds to 60 out of an Elentra? Even it is a stick you should be in the fives. The DCT is around 4.8 seconds to sixty, which I can personally attest to.

0-60 of Elantra N for 6.4 second looks little sketchy. Motortrend timed it 5.9, not to mention DCT version timed 5.1. All three cars had the exactly same 0-60? hmm...

Great car video

How the hell did you get 6.4 secs 0-60 on the Elantra N? I consistently get 5-5.5 seconds. 6 seconds flat when its cold and wet out. Is this a manual?

I have forte GT. Almost 3000 pounds 201hp so probably closest to that Si but that Si has a front differential. Forte GT come with summers on GT2 package and under 27k it’s a good alternative if you’re on a budget

You can get a base BRZ or GR86 for just under $30k. Just sayin.

Elantra N and Miata are getting updates this month lmao

I wish there was a channel or if there is let me know which one it is. That has the budget to test cars all with the same tire and not a stopwatch.

Are they testing above sea level? Why are the 0-60 times so slow? It’s either elevation or they can’t drive at all.

Pure performance for a new car the only 2 options imo at this price point are the Elantra N and GTI. The N of you want all performance stock with less luxury features or GTI if you want a few more luxury features and a lot more room for tuning.

Where is the WRX?

that Miata body roll is wild, lol

Where is the WRX?!

Gr corolla needed an invite to this

The level of individual adjustability of the EN rivals that of $90k+ 500+hp cars Like M4 Comp or CT5 blackwing. Engine, trans, steering, dampers, exhaust, LSD, ESC, for $35K. Truly incredible!

Elantra N is pretty decent, id probs be getting the elantra n when the major refresh comes which should realistically be in the next 3 years (following hyundai trend of 6 years and then a major refresh) and from what im hearing its very likely to get the 2.5L from sonata n-line which would absolutely be awesome and give me a bigger reason to get it then other cars.

Whenever the Miata takes a turn: “I lean like a cholo, elbows up, side to side like a cholo…”

Putting an Elantra N in here is like putting a type r or golf r in this match up, not a competition

저는 한국에서 Hyundai Elantra N MT를 가지고 있습니다 이차량은 22년도 4월에 구입했는데 아직도 너무 재미있어서 계속 가지고 있고 싶습니다. 가격 운동성 일반이한테 그리 높지 않은 마력 다 맘에 듭니다..

Ya’ll should have included the MK8 Golf GTI as well.

I wonder if it was really hot when you guys tested the acceleration - all of the cars are vastly slower than I've seen other magazines test them at.

The Elantra N is in the 5’s with the MT 0-60. Our Elantra N holds track records at COTA, Laguna Seca and Buttonwillow where it is sub 2 (1:57.7).

Shit 0 to 60 time on the Elantra N. Wtf I have an ElantraN Dct 0 - 60 time is definitely faster.

If you are going to test true miata at least do the convertible... Thats a 100lbs of weight added onto the rf

They forgot to mention that the civic si has a 1.5 turbo. With just a tune you’re beating the brz/miata with ease. Much more potential with a boosted engine than n/a as far as daily drivers. Also the civic is easily capable of 36mpg. It’s roomy and comfortable. Besides the Elantra n is probably the best bang for your buck. Handling wise it could be better but let’s be honest who is going to buy any of these cars as an enthusiast and not out coil overs or springs on it

ive done 5.0 flat 0-60 in the N. its a tricky car to launch but its a lot quicker driven right

The N rules!

If you want rwd fun go GR86, if you want fwd fun go Elantra N. Two best bang for buck by a lot. The Civic SI even with summer tires is way too much money for what is essentially just a regular Civic. Sadly like the Accord (bye 2L Turbo), Honda neutered the SI to make the more expensive Acura Integra version look better by taking away summer tires

Look. You have to turn off traction control in the si to get a good launch. If it's the same as the previous generation it's like a cheat code than you shift fast into second. Ease it into third I've noticed it doesn't eat it as well. I mean don't need to shift slow just don't do it as fast as possible you'll notice it after maybe 50 times or so it'll start to hesitate the throttle for a sec. I've gotten a 6 second with not so good tires. I find it launches fastest with wheel hope. You obviously let the car bog on the launch which lead to the 7.7 second 0-60

The N's 0 to 60 is 6.4?? You need to go through the octane learning procedure on 91 oct minimum. You'll get it close to 5 sec.

I found that you guys were ragging on the Si too much. Sure the stock tires are whatever, but the Si makes the best sport daily drivers out of these cars by far. Do I think Honda should increase the performance, yes. However since the Type R is exists Honda lets that do the heavy lifting in the performance segment. The Si is the best bang for the buck as of right now in Canada (more standard equipment then the US model) - I'm not sure why people are paying markups on these cars though, I paid MSRP for mine.

Honda being an underdog over a Hyundai. What a time we live in lol

If I ever wanted a reasonable compromise from a Camaro, I’d go elentra. Looks cool, love the exhaust and engine sound.

I ended up choosing ND Miata (again) when it was time to replace my NA Miata. No regrets. Everyone seems to love the Elantra N and I love the way it sounds, but it does not inspire the "look back" while I'm walking away from it. It drives great, sounds great, but the design is just ugly in my opinion. I hope they make another generation that improves on the looks before everything goes electric. BRZ still looks great, but without having a dropable top, it's not the complete driving experience for me.

That's not the right number at all 😂 my Elantra N do 5,1s not 6,4 😂

Elantra wipes the floor here

I have a 2020 si and 23 EN. The si is literally my economy car. Its so boring compared to the N. The N is the only car with no lift shift technology and the ability yo brake boost from the oem also.

Had they done the GR86 it beats the N with the tweaked suspension

The Elantra N needs to be octane learned

Car enthusiasts not picking the Miata is wiiiiiiiiiiiiiild

Always N for me, I've got the baby N, the i20n and it's hilarious but also seriously impressive💙💙💙

I call shenanigans

I was considering a 2023 Genesis G70, but given that local Genesis dealership staff think they're Bentley class folk, I have switch my interested to the 2025 Elantra N. It should be for sale in the summer :D

Love my Elantra ❤ great car

They sell timers, that are automatic when passing them. I’d use those to take the human reaction time error out.

If the Elantra wasn't so fugly looking, it would be a clear winner. I can't get past it's polarizing design. Gimme the BRZ/GR86.

This is the exact class of car I like and I have considered all these cars. I had an FRS but I want the Elantra N now. I simply don't trust the engine of the BRZ - too many cases of it blowing up, it is just not reliable in relation to the other cars here. If it were more reliable it would be a very tough call

We thought Miata would be the favourite out of the bunch.

I love love love my Elantra N. I've had it almost 2 years. It is so fast and can carry 3 kids, my wife, and all our luggage in it too!

REV 버튼이 한국 엘란트라N으로 치면 NGS 버튼인가요?

But The si can also do 6.4 0-60?...

If you want to autocross, the BRz is probably the better choice, with some decent tires, it is hard to beat. If you want hit track days, the Elantra is the clear winner, it is faster and fade-free right from the dealer lot. As a daily, the Elantra with the DSG is even faster than the manual, has plenty of room for 5 people and their stuff, and can switch from an eco-commuter to a back-road demon at the push of a button. Both offer a lot of tuning potential, but the BRz will always start as a compact RWD sports coupe and not a family sedan. They are two very different animals, both are just great. And the Miata is well, a Miata, can't go wrong there ever. And the Civic is a Honda, for the budget-limited, its only some tires and sway bars and a tune away from greatness.

Without proper timing equipment the auto cross times are way too close for any definitive answers. Driver reaction at start and the time keepers reactions at finish could swap any of those times around

Driver error the manual enlantra n has been clocked at under 6 sec to 60.

Yes you should find it out let’s see how it goes against the type r 🥶

The Elantra N is the best sports car for the money.

I think tge mustang ecoboost its really comparable to this other cars. People tend to compare it to the gt but, this comparison makes more sense imo 🤷🏻‍♂️

I personally owned and tested a 2018 civic SI, which is basically the exact same as what you tested. Mine came with All season tires cause I live in Colorado and mine did 0-60 in 5.9 seconds, and handled AMAZINGLY! Stop complaining about all seasons and spend more time in the car getting better.

feel like the VB wrx should have been in this