Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 N: 5 Questions Answered

Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 N, launched at Goodwood, merges high-performance with electric power, featuring advanced thermal management and engaging driving technologies.

• Hyundai unveils the IONIQ 5 N, its first high-performance, all-electric model at Goodwood.

• The IONIQ 5 N embodies N performance pillars with motorsport-bred technologies and features.

• Advanced thermal management and engaging driving experiences highlight the IONIQ 5 N’s design and functionality.

1. What is the IONIQ 5 N and its significance?

The IONIQ 5 N, unveiled at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, is the first high-performance, all-electric model from Hyundai’s N brand. The N brand has a history of success in the World Rally Championship, and the IONIQ 5 N is a testament to this winning DNA being carried into the era of electrification. As a pioneering model for the brand’s electrification strategy, this vehicle signifies a new segment of driver-focused high-performance EVs. It is also a testament to Hyundai N’s role as a technological powerhouse within Hyundai Motor Company.

2. What performance enhancements does the IONIQ 5 N boast?

The IONIQ 5 N demonstrates the three pillars of N performance: Corner Rascal, Racetrack Capability, and Everyday Sportscar. It comes with body and chassis reinforcements for higher torsional rigidity and direct steering feel, which leads to rally-inspired cornering. Its Racetrack Capability is showcased by its ability to deliver up 641 horsepower with N Grin Boost engaged, and increased endurance with industry-leading thermal management and regenerative braking. It can also achieve a top speed of 258 km/h, and complete the 0-100 km/h sprint in a claimed 3,4 seconds. Furthermore, the IONIQ 5 N offers a blend of N e-shift and N Active Sound + to deliver the feeling and sounds associated with high-performance ICE cars, making it an Everyday Sportscar.

3. How does the IONIQ 5 N manage its battery performance?

The IONIQ 5 N incorporates an improved PE system and enhanced battery cooling. It also features a thermal management system with increased cooling area, better motor oil cooler, and battery chiller. The separate radiators for the battery and motor enhance the vehicle’s resistance to performance degradation. Additionally, N Battery Preconditioning allows the driver to optimize the battery cells to the most power-efficient temperature before driving. These features ensure the IONIQ 5 N sets a new standard for thermal management in severe racetrack conditions.

4. How does Hyundai enhance the driving experience in the IONIQ 5 N?

Hyundai aims to provide an engaging driving experience with the integration of N e-shift and N Active Sound +. N e-shift simulates the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) of internal combustion engine (ICE) N cars, providing a more precise, interactive driving experience. The N Active Sound+ pairs with N e-shift to deliver a more engaging sensory experience for the driver, offering three distinct sound themes: ‘Ignition,’ ‘Evolution,’ and ‘Supersonic.’ The N Road Sense feature recommends the activation of N Mode when double-curved road signs are detected, allowing drivers to fully enjoy their drive (or break the law?!).

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5. How does the IONIQ 5 N reflect the N family look and feel?

The IONIQ 5 N carries the N family look through the application of N-branded elements, including the steering wheel, seats, door scuff panels, and metal pedals. It also has performance-enhancing design elements like contrasting black trim parts, a wing-type rear spoiler, and the EV N-exclusive ‘Luminous Orange’ accents that give it a racetrack-ready look. The interior design, optimized for track driving, features an N steering wheel, N seats with reinforced bolsters for a stable driving posture, and a center console with knee pads and shin support.