2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N: A Game-Changer for EV Enthusiasts
For enthusiasts who crave exhilarating drives that go beyond the typical stoplight acceleration, electric vehicles (EVs) have often fallen short in delivering a truly engaging driving experience. While EVs are known for their speed and environmental friendliness, they are often criticized for lacking character and driver engagement. However, Hyundai is aiming to change this perception with the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, a powerful and technologically advanced EV that promises to combine the best of both worlds.
With a starting price of $67,475, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is positioned as an accessible option for buyers who are looking for a high-performance EV without breaking the bank. In comparison, the Porsche Macan Turbo starts at $106,950, making the Ioniq 5 N an attractive alternative for performance enthusiasts on a budget.
To showcase its capabilities, Hyundai enlisted the help of 11-time Pikes Peak Hill Climb winner Paul Dallenbach to drive a showroom-spec Ioniq 5 N up Pikes Peak’s challenging 156 turns. The team believes that setting a record time for production electric SUVs is well within reach. Dallenbach’s confidence in the Ioniq 5 N only adds to the anticipation surrounding Hyundai’s first EV from their N division.
Underneath its stylish exterior, the Ioniq 5 N boasts impressive engineering and performance upgrades. With 641 horsepower at its disposal, thanks to its newfangled technology, the Ioniq 5 N offers a thrilling driving experience reminiscent of traditional combustion-powered sports cars. Its weight may be a concern, tipping the scales at 4,861 pounds, but the powerful electric motor and expert tuning help counterbalance this.
The chassis of the Ioniq 5 N has been significantly enhanced compared to the standard Ioniq 5, with improvements in stiffness, welding points, structural adhesives, and overall suspension tuning. These upgrades contribute to better handling and responsiveness, allowing drivers to confidently navigate corners and push the limits of the Ioniq 5 N’s capabilities.
Exterior design elements, such as an enlarged front grille, black side mirrors, and aluminum N badges, give the Ioniq 5 N a sporty and aggressive look. Inside the cabin, a fixed full-length center console adds to the cockpit-like feel of the car, further enhancing the driving experience.
Hyundai has gone above and beyond to simulate an analog driving experience in the Ioniq 5 N. The paddle-shifted “N e-Shift” system replicates the feel and engine revs of an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox, complete with a tachometer on the driver’s cluster. This attention to detail, combined with selectable powertrain sounds played through internal and external speakers, creates a more immersive driving experience that bridges the gap between traditional and electric performance cars.
Hyundai’s commitment to performance extends to other aspects of the Ioniq 5 N. The regenerative braking force is among the highest in the industry, allowing for efficient energy recovery and reducing wear on mechanical brakes. The pedal response and firmness are commendable for an EV, although some may find it less sensitive than top internal combustion engine models.
One drawback of the Ioniq 5 N is its relatively short driving range. With only 221 miles on a full charge, it falls behind its sibling models like the regular AWD Ioniq 5 (260 miles) and single-motor variants (up to 303 miles). However, for buyers seeking thrilling performance and track capability, this compromise may be well worth it.
The Ioniq 5 N’s user interface may overwhelm some drivers with its extensive performance settings. Hyundai offers an abundance of customizable options, from motor and steering tuning to sounds and battery management. While this level of customization can be exciting for enthusiasts, it may be too complicated for the average driver. Fortunately, the conveniently located N buttons on the steering wheel allow for quick access to frequently used configurations.
Despite its minor drawbacks, the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is a game-changer in the world of electric vehicles. It successfully combines speed, performance, and a nod to traditional driving experiences, all while remaining accessible to a wider range of buyers. With its track capabilities and exhilarating driving dynamics, the Ioniq 5 N is poised to make a significant impact in the EV market and attract a new generation of performance enthusiasts.
