The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is getting an exciting upgrade. Hyundai has introduced a new version of its popular electric vehicle, giving it the sporty N treatment — resulting in the new Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.
If you know Hyundai’s N series, you’ll understand what this version entails. The new car comes with racing-inspired details, enhances the pixel design, and includes a new powertrain. It also features various performance-centered attributes that’ll make driving the Ioniq 5 N a thrilling experience.
Till Wartenberg, Hyundai’s vice president and head of N Brand and Motorsport, highlighted that the Ioniq 5 N aims to elevate driving enjoyment using the latest technologies. The N brand strives to deliver a signature fun driving experience, whether the car runs on petrol, electric, or hydrogen. To achieve this goal, they have listened closely to their N fans to perfect their first all-electric N, aiming to spark the driving passion of their most demanding enthusiasts.
On the styling front, the car is adorned with N branding throughout, including the steering wheel, seats, and metal pedals. The steering wheel features N buttons that let drivers switch between N drive modes, which can be customized for easy access. The center console includes knee pads to enhance comfort during track driving and cornering.
Technically speaking, Hyundai has made several improvements over previous Ioniq 5 models. The new car features an 84kWh battery with a two-stage inverter that allows up to 641 horsepower, especially with the N Grin Boost, which delivers peak power to the wheels for 10 seconds.
Hyundai designs its N cars, including the Ioniq 5 N, for the track. The car is reinforced with 42 extra welding points and additional structural adhesives. The steering system has been strengthened to improve rigidity and overall steering response. Hyundai claims that the Ioniq 5 N offers a quicker steering ratio, promising a more refined steering experience.
Addressing the challenge of balancing the weight of an electric car with sporty driving, Hyundai introduced the new N Pedal system. This system adds an extra layer of regenerative braking that, along with aggressive steering, can make cornering sharper.
The Ioniq 5 N is also designed for drifting. It features an N Drift Optimizer that considers various inputs to simulate the feel of drifting in a combustion engine car. Hyundai says this optimizer reacts within milliseconds, making the drifting experience in the Ioniq 5 N comparable to that of conventional cars.
While the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is undoubtedly an impressive car, it might not be suitable for everyone. The base Ioniq 5 is a great electric vehicle for most drivers. However, those who are not particularly interested in high-performance driving might find the entry-level models more appealing. Nevertheless, it’s great to see Hyundai continuing its tradition of innovation with its electric vehicles.