Hyundai has taken the stage at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed to introduce its highly anticipated Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, marking the sub-brand’s first foray into high-performance electrified models. This debut represents the initial step in Hyundai’s broader electrification strategy, with more exciting electric vehicles (EVs) to follow under the N badge.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N showcases impressive power with its dual electric motor setup. The model boasts a total output of 600 horsepower (448 kilowatts) and 545 pound-feet (740 Newton-meters) of torque, although minor adjustments may be made prior to production. Engaging the N Grin Boost function, drivers can experience a temporary surge in power, pushing the output to an impressive 641 hp (478 kW) and 567 lb-ft (770 Nm) of torque for a thrilling 10-second burst.
Equipped with an all-wheel-drive powertrain, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N accelerates from 0 to 62 miles per hour in just 3.5 seconds, which decreases to 3.4 seconds when N Grin Boost is activated. The top speed of this high-performance EV reaches an impressive 161 mph (260 kph).
Hyundai offers the Ioniq 5 N with an 84.0-kilowatt-hour battery, the largest capacity available for the model. Furthermore, it incorporates 800-volt technology for ultra-fast charging capabilities, allowing the battery to charge from 10 to 80 percent in a mere 18 minutes.
Drivers can optimize the battery’s performance through Hyundai’s N Battery Pre-conditioning feature, which includes Drag and Track modes. Track mode optimizes the battery temperature for maximum laps, while Drag mode provides a brief burst of total power. These software enhancements by Hyundai contribute to an exceptional driving experience both on public roads and the track.
The Ioniq 5 N distinguishes itself with larger wheels, a revamped suspension setup, new aerodynamic elements, and an upgraded regenerative braking system. These additions add weight to the vehicle, but Hyundai has employed innovative software and techniques to counterbalance the extra mass.
The N Brake Regen system takes the lead in braking force, supplemented by mechanical brakes as necessary, especially during track driving. Under normal conditions, the regenerative braking system can deliver up to 0.6 G of deceleration force, which reduces to 0.2 G when the ABS is engaged. With four-piston monoblock front calipers and lightweight materials, Hyundai boasts its most robust braking system to date.
To manage the Ioniq 5 N’s weight and improve cornering capability, Hyundai developed the N Pedal software. This feature increases the regenerative braking force, facilitating weight transfer and enhancing the car’s ability to maneuver through corners. Another notable addition is the N Drift Optimizer, a system that manages multiple vehicle systems to maintain a drift angle. Hyundai integrated the Torque Kick Drift function to aid drivers in initiating drifts, simulating the clutch kick action commonly seen in rear-wheel-drive vehicles. The Ioniq 5 N also incorporates N Torque Distribution with up to 11 levels of adjustability and an electronic limited-slip differential for further control.
Hyundai has also focused on enriching the driving experience through its N e-shift and N Active Sound + systems. N e-shift emulates the feeling of an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, delivering a simulated jolt between gearshifts by controlling the motor’s torque output. Complementing this, N Active Sound + offers three distinct sound themes: Ignition simulates the sound of Hyundai N’s 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, Evolution draws inspiration from the RN22e, and the Supersonic sound theme varies the volume during cornering, taking inspiration from a twin-engine fighter jet. These simulated sounds and shifts enhance communication between the driver and the electric vehicle.
Sporting a more aggressive appearance, the Ioniq 5 N boasts larger dimensions than its standard counterpart, featuring a 1.6-inch (40 mm) wider bottom, a 3.2-inch (80 mm) longer body, and a 0.79-inch (20 mm) lower ride height. The car exhibits a lower bumper lip spoiler, active air flaps, and a functional mesh air curtain, accentuated by N-exclusive Luminous Orange trim on the bumper, side skirts, and rear diffuser. Rolling on 21-inch forged aluminum wheels fitted with specially tuned Pirelli P-Zero tires for electric vehicles, the Ioniq 5 N projects a dynamic and athletic stance.
Inside the cabin, Hyundai introduces its newly designed N steering wheel, adorned with the performance brand’s logo for the first time. The wheel incorporates four buttons: Drive Mode Select, N Grin Boost, and two N Custom buttons. These customizable triggers enable drivers to configure personalized drive modes mapped to each button. Conveniently located behind the wheel are the paddles for the e-shift and N Pedal functions.
Hyundai also focuses on driver comfort, particularly during track sessions, by adding a knee pad and shin support to the reinforced center console and introducing a sliding armrest. The bolstered seats are positioned approximately 0.79 inches lower than in the standard model and are available in two variants: cloth-and-leather or eco-Alcantara-and-leather, featuring a pixel pattern.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N offers a selection of ten colors, including two exclusive to the model: N Performance Blue Matte and N Performance Blue. The remaining options comprise Abyss Black Pearl, Cyber Gray Metallic, Ecotronic Gray Matte, Ecotronic Gray, Atlas White, Atlas White Matte, Gravity Gold Matte, and Soultronic Orange Pearl. The interior comes exclusively in black with Performance Blue accents, further emphasizing the sporty character of the vehicle.
Hyundai has not disclosed the pricing details for the Ioniq 5 N; however, it is expected to exceed the starting price of $53,935 (including the $1,335 destination charge) for the top Limited trim of the standard Ioniq 5. The company has yet to announce the official release date, but it is anticipated to hit dealerships sometime next year. More information, including the range and pricing, will be unveiled by Hyundai in the near future. The standard Ioniq 5 model offers a range between 220 and 266 miles, providing a glimpse of what can be expected from the high-performance N variant.
