The Hyundai Ioniq 5N Electric Vehicle exhibits a vintage sports car's auditory and tactile essence.
Hyundai Introduces the Electrifying Ioniq 5N: A New Era in Performance Driving
Hyundai has taken a bold step forward in its electric performance journey with the debut of the Ioniq 6N, the latest addition to the 'N' badged cars that the company has been building since 2017 [1]. The Ioniq 5N is a transformed Ioniq 5 hatchback, designed to improve driver engagement with new technologies [2].
At its core, the Ioniq 5N boasts a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive powertrain capable of producing 601bhp in normal mode, with an overboost option that pushes output to 641bhp and 740Nm torque [3][5]. This powerhouse enables a lightning-fast 0-62 mph sprint in just 3.4 seconds [3][5]. The car's 800-volt electrical architecture integrates motors into the axles for structural strength and enhanced responsiveness, while an adaptive chassis, including adjustable dampers, steering, an electronic limited-slip differential (e-LSD), and stability control, allows for a highly customizable driving experience [1].
The Ioniq 5N offers a unique blend of electric vehicle (EV) benefits with a more engaging, almost "old school" feel. Performance-wise, it combines the instant torque and seamless acceleration typical of EVs with simulated gear shifts and aggressive throttle responses in Sport and N Grin Boost modes [2][5]. The regenerative braking system is robust and adjustable, minimizing reliance on physical brakes during normal driving [5]. However, the real-world range is moderate at about 278 miles, and heavy use of high-performance modes causes range to decline rapidly [2].
Compared to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) supercars, the Ioniq 5 N offers supercar-level acceleration and all-wheel-drive agility, but its dynamic experience is distinct due to the electric powertrain’s characteristics. The instantaneous power delivery, ability to modulate multiple drive components electronically, and the adaptive electronic limited-slip differential set it apart from ICE cars, often seen as more straightforward and linear in response [1].
Inside the Ioniq 5N, drivers will find leather and Alcantara bucket seats in a lower, more sporting seating position. The car also features a 10-speaker audio system for the N Active Sound+, which offers three themes emulating different sounds such as a 2.0 litre turbocharged Hyundai engine, a "signature high-performance sound", and a "Supersonic" theme [4]. Using the steering wheel-mounted paddles to "change gear" in the Ioniq 5N results in a roaring engine sound, pitching and falling with each click on the paddle [4].
Despite the limited production numbers, Hyundai sees the benefit in keeping the 'N' series around to win over EV doubters [1]. The Ioniq 5N has already won a clutch of awards from the automotive press, testament to its unique blend of modern electric powertrain benefits with driving dynamics aimed at maximizing driver engagement [1].
The Ioniq 5N is available for purchase on Hyundai.com, priced at £65,010 [6]. With its powerful performance, customizable driving experience, and modern take on classic driving dynamics, the Ioniq 5N is set to redefine the electric sports car landscape.
[1] Hyundai Media Network, (2022), Hyundai Ioniq 5 N: A new era of high-performance electric driving [2] Car and Driver, (2022), 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N Review [3] Autocar, (2022), Hyundai Ioniq 5 N electric hot hatch revealed with 601bhp and 0-62mph in 3.4sec [4] Top Gear, (2022), Hyundai Ioniq 5 N review [5] MotorTrend, (2022), 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N First Test: The New Standard for Electric Performance [6] Hyundai.com, (2022), Ioniq 5 N
- The Ioniq 5N, a transformative electric vehicle by Hyundai, brings together the advantages of electric living with a more thrilling, old-school driving experience, aiming to attract doubters of electric vehicles with its performance-driven lifestyle.
- In addition to its exceptional electrical powertrain and performance abilities, the Ioniq 5N showcases technology integration, such as adaptive chassis, smart gadgets like adjustable dampers, e-LSD, and smartphone compatibility for seamless control.
- Home-and-garden enthusiasts will appreciate the Ioniq 5N's outdoor-living appeal, as the electric vehicle's performance capabilities offer an exhilarating ride that complements a dynamic, energetic lifestyle.
- To improve driver engagement, the Ioniq 5N incorporates various technologies, like the N Active Sound+ system with adjustable sound themes, creating an engaging auditory experience while driving.
- Combining the power and agility of electric vehicles with the precision of sports cars, the Ioniq 5N is more than just a car – it's a symbol of a new era in performance driving that seamlessly blends modern lifestyle preferences, outdoor-living, and cutting-edge technology.