text: The base Elantra GT is powered by a naturally-aspirated 2.0L inline four-cylinder (I4) engine that produces  at 6,200 rpm, and  of torque at 4,700 rpm. This engine is shared with the standard Hyundai Elantra Sedan. The performance-oriented Elantra GT Sport, in addition to replacing the standard rear torsion-beam suspension with an independent suspension, is powered by a turbocharged 1.6L I4 engine that produces  at 6,000 rpm, and  of torque at 1,500-4,500 rpm. This engine is the same engine as equipped in the Kia Forte Hatchback SX Turbo and the Kia Soul Exclaim (!) Turbo. Transmission choices for the Elantra GT are a standard six-speed manual transmission, or an optional six-speed automatic transmission. Transmission choices for the Elantra GT Sport include a standard six-speed manual transmission, or an optional seven-speed Dual Clutch automatic (DCT) transmission. "Drive Mode Select" is standard on cars equipped with either the automatic transmission, or the Dual Clutch (DCT) automatic transmission.
  According to the Car and Driver, the GT Sport fell "short of delivering the buttoned-down refinement found in the class leaders when attacking twisting tarmac" and its body leans more than they would like in turns, "the electrically assisted steering lacks the precision and feel of the Honda Civic Sport hatchback and the GTI".
  For 2019, the Elantra GT Sport was replaced with the Elantra GT N-Line. The N-Line trim improves upon the Sport model with additional body welds, substantially stiffer springs, firmer engine and transmission mounts, a larger rear anti-roll bar, and revised damper tuning to reduce body lean and improve handling. The Elantra GT N-Line is similar to that of the i30 N-Line.