Over the weekend, Hyundai unveiled the Ioniq 5 N as its first electric hot hatch. It has been confirmed to go on sale in New Zealand next year.
The Korean carmaker took to the 2023 Goodwood Festival of Speed to debut the new car, showcasing its first performance EV.
Based on the Electrified-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) that can be found underneath the standard Ioniq 5, the N inherits a dual-motor, all-wheel drive powertrain that will become Hyundai’s most powerful car yet.
In its standard mode, the Ioniq 5 N makes 448kW and 740Nm of torque which can be upped to 478kW and 770Nm with a simple push of the N Grin Boost mode button. Power is drawn from an 84kWh battery which is slightly more than the standard car’s 77.4kWh unit but it isn’t clear how far that will get you on a single charge yet.
When translated to the road, the electric hot hatch can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in a matter of 3.4 seconds (in N Grin Boost mode).
That’s all well and good, but the area in which Hyundai put most of its focus into was how much fun the driver can have behind the wheel. To achieve this, it has tried to replicate the same feeling drivers experience in its petrol-powered performance cars such as the i30 N, with features like a simulated gear shift (called N e-shift) and the choice of three synthetic exhaust notes which can be played through the car’s speakers.
There’s a heap of other entertaining things to play with as well, such as the drift mode function with a simulated clutch kick ability, launch control, battery preconditioning, and more.
When it comes time to stop, a set of 400mm discs and four-piston calipers come into action up front, while 360mm discs and single-piston calipers spring into life at the rear. However, the Ioniq 5 N’s new regenerative braking system really packs a punch with 0.6G of decelerative force, which Hyundai says is “industry leading”.
Underneath the reinforced body sits a set of 21-inch aluminium wheels wrapped in Pirelli P Zero tyres, adaptive suspension, an electronic limited-slip differential, and a faster-turning steering rack.
The reveal also marks the first time Hyundai has shown off the hot hatch’s exterior and interior in full, introducing us to the model’s wider hips, orange-highlighted body kit, as well as a new rear wing.
Inside, N badges can be found throughout, like on the newly designed steering wheel which comes with additional buttons for changing various features and driving modes. The N Grin Boost button has been placed at the 3 o’clock mark, allowing the driver to access additional power when it’s most needed. A set of paddles as part of the N e-shift feature can be found at the driver’s fingertips too.
To ensure utmost comfort during hard cornering, the centre console has been fitted with knee pads and shin support, as well as a sliding armrest. The interior also features USB Type-C charge ports, a wireless charger, and multiple cupholders. Bucket seats have been installed to keep both front occupants supported at all times.
Hyundai New Zealand has confirmed that the new Ioniq 5 N will launch in 2024, with pricing and specification set to be released closer to the new model’s arrival. Kiwi customers who are interested in getting their hands on the brand’s first performance EV can express their interest here.
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