The Hyundai IONIQ 5 has celebrated wide acclaim both globally and here in the UK for its affordability and impressive mix of luxury and practicality – not to mention the efficiency and high-speed charging ability of its 800V E-GMP architecture. The next instalment in the IONIQ 5 is the performance version, IONIQ 5 N, which we’ve already reported on in detail. The most notable achievement of which was completing its final testing at Nürburgring.
In an effort to verify its ability in terms of dynamics and racetrack precision, the IONIQ 5 N completed almost 480 laps of the Nordschleife – it notably represents the Korean brand’s first electrified high-performance N model. While it shares a lot of its DNA with the SUV-like IONIQ 5, the N version has gone under the knife and for good reason. The boosted electric motor has resulted in an extra 42 additional welding points and 2.1m of additional adhesives, reinforced motor and battery mountings while the overall subframe has been enhanced for lateral rigidity.
In terms of performance figures, the 5 N’s powertrain has been tweaked for performance in both power output, battery cooling and braking. The electric motors spin up to 21,000rpm providing up to 600bhp (609PS) in normal conditions, or 641bhp (650PS) in N Grin Boost (NGB) mode. The 5 N also features N Launch Control, with three different traction levels for the fastest possible start. Torque is rated at a whopping 770Nm.
To improve the sensory experience of the car, Hyundai has outfitted it with N e-shift and N Active Sound+. N e-shift simulates the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission of internal combustion engine N cars, simulating gearshifts by controlling torque output and mimicking the physical sensations between shifts. N Active Sound+ is paired with N e-shift to enhance the driving experience of EVs by creating a more engaging sensory experience by using a 10-speaker system.
To improve battery performance during track sessions are independent radiators for the battery and motor, revised motor oil cooler and battery chiller. There’s also an N Battery Pre-conditioning system to optimise the battery cells to the most power-efficient temperature by choosing between ‘Drag’ mode for a short burst of full power or ‘Track’ mode.
As a performance vehicle, the IONIQ 5 N benefits from both a racy exterior and interior, both of which add to the car’s character. The N model distinguishes itself from the regular IONIQ 5 by way of reductions in height (20 mm lower overall), width (50 mm wider at the bottom to accommodate wider tyres) and length (80 mm longer due to the more prominent diffuser). It also gets 21-inch forged aluminium wheels. The cabin is a place of beauty. New N bucket seats are finished in leather and Alcantara and have reinforced bolsters. N emblems are liberally scattered throughout the interior while an embedded Digital Centre Mirror adds to the notion of futurism.
Naturally, as a performance version, the IONIQ 5 N is pricier than the standard £42,655 sticker price – a new Hyundai IONIQ 5 N will set you back £65,000.
All IONIQ 5 N models come with Hyundai’s industry-leading Five-year Unlimited Mileage Warranty, eight-year/100,000 Mile High Voltage Battery Warranty, five-year Annual Health Check, three-year MapCare navigation update program, Roadside Assistance package, and 12-year Anti Corrosion Warranty.
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Ashley Andrew, President, Hyundai Motor UK said “IONIQ 5 N is truly the first EV for the driving enthusiast, combining not just high performance and precision handling but also using state-of-the-art technology to provide an emotional connection so far missing in performance EVs. IONIQ 5 N uses an array of tools to provide a driver-centric driving experience whenever desired, as well as the ability to become a quiet, comfortable and efficient zero emission family SUV at the flick of a mode button”.
