The Hyundai Elantra CN7 TCR brought a new dimension to iRacing’s FIA TCR lineup when it debuted in the 2021 Season 1 build. Slotting in alongside the Audi RS 3 LMS and Honda Civic Type R, the Elantra quickly gained a reputation as one of the most stable and beginner-friendly touring cars in the sim. With its wide stance, strong braking, and forgiving handling characteristics, it has become a go-to choice for drivers learning the unique demands of front-wheel-drive competition.
Specs and Technical Details
The Elantra CN7 TCR is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, producing around 340 horsepower. Power is delivered through a 6-speed sequential gearbox to the front wheels, following the standardized FIA TCR regulations. At roughly 2,800 pounds, it sits squarely in the performance window of TCR cars, balancing power with agility.
Aerodynamic enhancements include a front splitter, wide fenders, and a large rear wing, providing downforce and stability without overwhelming the mechanical grip. Combined with Hyundai’s engineering focus on balance and braking, the Elantra is one of the most confidence-inspiring TCR platforms in iRacing.
Handling Characteristics
The defining trait of the Elantra CN7 TCR is its stability. On corner entry, the car’s strong brakes and balanced chassis allow for late braking without losing control. Its wide stance and suspension tuning help it remain planted in medium- and high-speed corners.
Like most front-wheel-drive touring cars, the Elantra tends to show mild understeer under throttle, especially on corner exits. However, this trait is predictable and easy to manage with smooth inputs. Rolling onto the throttle gradually and avoiding sharp steering corrections allows drivers to keep momentum while minimizing front tire scrub.
Compared to its stablemate, the Hyundai Veloster N TCR, the Elantra is generally considered slightly easier to drive. Its larger dimensions and refined suspension setup give it a calmer, more forgiving character, making it a great platform for developing confidence in TCR racing.
Difficulty Level
The Elantra CN7 TCR is rated as beginner-friendly, but it also offers enough depth to challenge more experienced sim racers. For newcomers, its forgiving understeer and stable braking platform make it an excellent introduction to touring cars. For veterans, maximizing pace requires fine control of throttle application and line choice to keep the car rotating efficiently without sacrificing exit speed.
This blend of accessibility and competitiveness makes the Elantra one of the most versatile cars in the TCR category.
Real-World Tie-In
In real-world motorsport, the Hyundai Elantra CN7 TCR has quickly become a staple in FIA TCR competitions worldwide, including the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge in North America. It has scored race wins in multiple regional and international series, showcasing its effectiveness as a customer racing platform.
Hyundai’s investment in TCR racing reflects the brand’s commitment to motorsport, and the Elantra sits at the center of that effort. Its real-world success makes its inclusion in iRacing particularly valuable for fans and aspiring drivers looking to experience the same machinery used by professional touring car teams.
Why It’s Popular in iRacing
The Elantra CN7 TCR stands out in iRacing’s touring car roster for several reasons:
- Stability: Predictable handling makes it a favorite for rookies.
- Braking Performance: Strong, confidence-inspiring brakes aid in both defense and overtaking.
- Versatility: Excels on both tight, technical tracks and fast, flowing circuits.
- Approachability: Easier to handle than the Veloster N TCR, reducing the learning curve.
Conclusion
The Hyundai Elantra CN7 TCR blends stability, predictability, and competitiveness into one of the most approachable touring cars in iRacing. It’s beginner-friendly without being dull, offering drivers of all levels a chance to enjoy tight, door-to-door racing that defines the TCR formula. With its strong real-world pedigree and accessible driving dynamics, the Elantra CN7 TCR has secured its place as a cornerstone of iRacing’s Touring Car Challenge.
