The 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is a peculiar beast, a curious mix of high-end tech and aggressive design packaged in an eco-friendly shell. It’s not just a new version of the Ioniq 5; it’s an entirely different creature that seems to have been designed for lap times, not the typical urban EV lifestyle. Hyundai has essentially taken a perfectly sensible electric vehicle and given it the personality of a street racer. The result is both impressive and unexpectedly thrilling.
Design and Exterior
At first glance, the Ioniq 5 N appears similar to its base model sibling—only, perhaps, a bit more sculpted and intense. The designers have certainly made good use of their time, adding sharp lines, 21-inch wheels, and a low, assertive stance. Its wide-set, boxy silhouette, coupled with a reworked front grille and rear spoiler, gives it a demeanour that’s less “eco-warrior” and more “track day enthusiast.” The N division has refined the original design, adding just enough visual aggression without losing the quirky, retro-inspired charm that made the Ioniq 5 a standout in the first place. It feels almost like a wolf in sheep’s clothing, though any lingering doubt about its intentions is dispelled the moment you start it up.
Performance and Handling
Underneath its refined exterior, the Ioniq 5 N packs a punch with an 84-kWh battery that powers dual motors capable of delivering a combined 478 kW (or around 640 horsepower) and a jaw-dropping 739 Nm of torque. When you press the N Grin Boost button, you get a short burst of extra power, enough to shave precious seconds off your sprint time. This setup takes the Ioniq 5 N from 0 to 100 km/h in around 3.3 seconds. To put that in perspective, it’s quicker than many sports cars on the road today. And yet, this isn’t some lightweight coupe; it’s a hefty EV with the frame and size of a mid-sized SUV.
The handling is sharp, almost unexpectedly so. Despite weighing in at 2.2 tonnes, the Ioniq 5 N feels remarkably agile on the road. Hyundai has equipped it with a heavily reinforced chassis, extra welds, and stiffer springs, giving it a level of rigidity that’s borderline unnecessary in an EV. The result, however, is a vehicle that stays composed even through the tightest corners. There’s no nervous wobble or vague feedback from the steering; it’s precise, responsive, and feels every bit as sporty as its specs suggest. The stiffer suspension might feel a bit too firm for everyday city streets, but on an open road or a curving back-country lane, it’s perfectly tuned to reward the daring driver.
Interior and Features
Step inside, and the Ioniq 5 N welcomes you with an interior that mixes performance with practicality. The seats are upholstered in a tasteful blend of Alcantara and faux leather, which holds you firmly in place during high-speed cornering yet manages to stay comfortable over long distances. The entire cabin layout is minimalistic but thoughtfully arranged, with all controls comfortably within reach. Hyundai has removed the sliding center console from the standard Ioniq 5, a feature that might be missed by those who valued its flexibility. But the N variant is unapologetically built for driving, and that sense of purpose shines through in every design decision.
A unique addition is the N e-Shift, a feature that simulates an eight-speed paddle-shift gearbox, allowing you to feel like you’re managing a traditional combustion engine. While it’s an entirely artificial experience, Hyundai’s attention to detail in simulating the feel of an actual gear shift is commendable. Downshifts come with a subtle vibration, and the acceleration mimics the delay and punch you’d expect from a gearbox. It’s gimmicky, sure, but surprisingly satisfying, adding a layer of engagement that many EVs sorely lack.
Driving Experience
Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: how does it drive? Simply put, the Ioniq 5 N is exhilarating. The instant torque from the electric motors is, quite simply, addictive. You can feel the power the moment you press the accelerator. The delivery is so immediate that it almost feels theatrical—a visceral jolt that lets you know this car isn’t here to simply ferry you to the supermarket and back. Instead, it wants you to find every excuse to take the long way home, ideally with a few winding roads in between.
The steering is weighted and responsive, and while the suspension might feel a bit rigid for city driving, it’s flawless on more open roads. Hyundai has also integrated a sound generator that emulates the engine noises of performance cars. It might seem like a gimmick, but it adds a surprising depth to the driving experience. It’s as if Hyundai wanted to remind you of what’s been lost in the silent world of EVs while still pushing the benefits of an electric powertrain. And strangely, it works, enhancing the sense of speed and drama as you tear down the road.
The Potential
But let's indulge in a bit of imaginative engineering. Picture this: raise the suspension a tad, slap on some chunky off-road tyres, and the Ioniq 5 N could transform into the ultimate electric off-road rally car. The instant torque would be a godsend on loose surfaces, catapulting you out of corners with ease. The reinforced chassis is already built to handle spirited driving; surely, a few gravel roads wouldn't faze it.
Imagine tearing through a forest stage, the only sounds being the crunch of dirt under the tyres and the whirr of electric motors. No gears to fumble with, just seamless power delivery as you navigate the twists and turns. The regenerative braking would not only help manage speed but also recharge the battery on the fly—a practical advantage in the middle of nowhere. It's a tantalizing prospect, blending eco-conscious engineering with the raw thrill of rallying.
Range and Charging
Of course, there’s a price to pay for all this performance: the range. The Ioniq 5 N won’t set any records for efficiency, but it’s still respectable for a car that’s packing this much punch. Hyundai estimates a range of around 400 kilometers under ideal conditions. In real-world driving, especially with a heavy foot, expect closer to 350 kilometers. Fast-charging capability is impressive, though, allowing the Ioniq 5 N to go from 10% to 80% charge in about 18 minutes on a 350 kW DC fast charger. It’s clear this isn’t a car designed for lengthy cross-country trips, but for daily use and spirited drives, it has enough juice to keep most drivers satisfied.
Technology and Extras
The tech package is comprehensive, with everything from an intuitive infotainment system to a full suite of driver-assistance features. The touchscreen is crisp, responsive, and integrates seamlessly with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Hyundai has also packed in some unique track-oriented features, like a telemetry system that can record lap times, acceleration stats, and braking performance. It’s a small addition but indicative of Hyundai’s commitment to creating a true performance EV.
Another detail worth mentioning is Hyundai’s attention to energy efficiency beyond just the battery. The Ioniq 5 N is equipped with regenerative braking, which can be adjusted to suit your preferences, offering a single-pedal driving experience. It’s an aspect of EV driving that’s becoming more refined with each generation, and Hyundai has done well to ensure the system feels smooth and natural, without the harshness that some EVs exhibit.
Verdict
Hyundai has done something genuinely impressive with the Ioniq 5 N. This isn’t just a faster Ioniq; it’s a complete reimagining of what an electric vehicle can be. It’s a car that thrills, impresses, and ultimately leaves you wanting more. Yes, it has its quirks—the stiff suspension, the somewhat limited range—but these are small sacrifices in the grand scheme of things.
In a world where electric cars often aim to be restrained and sensible, Hyundai has dared to bring out a performance EV that unapologetically caters to the enthusiast. The Ioniq 5 N proves that electric cars don’t have to be dull; they can be fast, dynamic, and genuinely fun to drive. It’s a testament to Hyundai’s ambition and a reminder that, in the right hands, the future of driving can still be exciting.
