Hyundai Ioniq 5 N: The New Electric Driver’s Car?

A New Era for Fun in Electric Cars

The electric vehicle market has evolved rapidly, with even industry giants like Porsche and BMW now offering their take on high-performance EVs. Yet, for all their achievements, these brands have struggled to capture that pure, unfiltered sense of driving excitement that enthusiasts crave—a feeling that compels you to jump behind the wheel just for the pleasure of tackling a twisty backroad. Hyundai’s latest creation, the Ioniq 5 N, promises to be the answer to this gap, aiming to bring genuine driving fun to the electric age.

Hyundai’s Bold Transformation

A decade or so ago, few would have expected Hyundai to be at the forefront of performance motoring. Historically viewed as a maker of reliable but uninspiring cars, the brand has since transformed itself through ambitious recruitment and a willingness to experiment. By bringing on board leading European engineers and giving their teams creative freedom, Hyundai has managed to surprise many, especially with the launch of its ‘N’ division—vehicles designed with driving pleasure as their primary goal.

The first N cars, such as the i30 N and i20 N, quickly earned a reputation for being fast, agile, and engaging to drive. While not the most refined, these turbocharged hot hatchbacks offered a raw, honest experience that put Hyundai firmly on the map for car enthusiasts. This hard-earned credibility paved the way for the Ioniq 5 N, Hyundai’s first electric performance model, which comes with a playful self-description as a ‘corner rascal’.

Striking Design and Engineering

The Ioniq 5 N takes the already distinctive styling of the standard Ioniq 5—a car with subtle nods to rally legends like the Lancia Delta Integrale—and dials up the visual drama. The ride height has been dropped by 20mm, the wheel arches are 51mm wider, and N-specific details add a sense of aggression without descending into excess. Approaching the car, you’ll notice the gloss black front splitter and rear diffuser, which extend the overhangs, as well as the striking 21-inch wheels complete with a red pinstripe. In terms of size, the Ioniq 5 N is a substantial car, comparable in footprint to the BMW M3.

Beneath the surface lies the same modular E-GMP platform found in the Kia EV6 GT, but Hyundai has fitted the N with a more advanced, high-density battery pack. This 84.0kWh battery is claimed to offer a range of up to 278 miles and feeds two powerful electric motors—one on each axle. Together, they can generate a staggering 641bhp in short bursts, matching the output of some of the world’s most renowned supercars.

A sophisticated two-stage inverter on the rear motor allows for greater power delivery, pushing the Ioniq 5 N’s performance to new heights. To ensure reliability and sustained performance, the car is also equipped with its own high-capacity oil cooler, an improved battery cooling system, and additional air intakes built into the front end.

Driving Experience: Where the Ioniq 5 N Shines

Despite weighing a hefty 2,235kg, the Ioniq 5 N manages to deliver a remarkably fluid and agile driving experience. It feels much lighter than its weight suggests, encouraging drivers of all abilities to push on and enjoy themselves. One unique feature is Hyundai’s simulated gearshifts—a potentially divisive idea in an EV, but here they’re executed so intuitively that the boundary between electric and petrol power almost vanishes at times.

The Ioniq 5 N is also priced sensibly, especially when considering the level of performance on offer and the everyday practicality inherited from the standard model. There’s plenty of interior space and all the usability you’d expect from a modern family car.

However, it’s not without its shortcomings. While the body control is commendable, the damping can feel a little basic compared to more expensive rivals. The car’s efficiency on longer journeys isn’t its strongest suit, likely due to the substantial grip provided by its wide tyres. Inside, the cabin feels well-built but lacks the premium feel of some pricier competitors.

Verdict: A Standout Entry in the EV Market

Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 N marks a significant step forward for electric performance cars. With its impressive power, bold styling, and a focus on genuine driving enjoyment, it sets a new benchmark for what an EV can deliver. It may not be perfect—particularly when it comes to ride comfort and interior luxury—but it succeeds where it matters most: putting a smile on the driver’s face.

For those seeking an electric vehicle that goes beyond silent efficiency and offers a genuine connection between car and driver, the Ioniq 5 N stands out as a compelling choice, proving that Hyundai’s bold ambitions have paid off.