Sports car: Hyundai Elantra N
The Hyundai Elantra N received an update for 2024, improving what was already a strong package. The front-end styling received the most notable update, the car now featuring slimmer headlights and a newly designed grille. The last version looked good in this department, but this is a step up that adds more seriousness.
Which makes sense because performance-wise, it’s properly serious as well, sporting a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine good for 276 hp ad 289 lb-ft of torque. That output is sent to the front wheels via either a 6-speed manual transmission or a dual-clutch automatic. Both are performance-focused transmission well-suited to unique circumstances.
The handling, meanwhile, is suited for any number of circumstances. You get both baked-in drive modes and two customizable modes that you can tweak to your heart’s content.
And all for less than 40 grand CAD before taxes.
Electric vehicle: Chevrolet Equinox EV
It’s not too often that a manufacturer takes one of its most popular nameplates and adds a full-electric version, but that’s precisely what Chevrolet has done with the Equinox EV.
The gas model still exists, but the EV is a completely distinct creature. It gets a more modern front fascia, two-tone paint options and unique wheels.
Range is rated at 513 km for the front-wheel drive version, which is also the entry-level model that starts at just over $50,000 before government incentives.
See also: 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV First Drive: A Home Run
See also: 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV Review: When Chevrolet Leads the Charge