Hyundai Unveils the All-New Ioniq 5 N EV with Enhanced Performance

Electric vehicles aren’t often considered as enjoyable to drive as gas vehicles with manual transmissions. However, Hyundai is working to change that perception with the new Ioniq 5 N performance variant. This version, developed by Hyundai’s “N” subbrand, features a virtual eight-speed transmission and up to 478kW (641 horsepower) of power.

The new “e-shift” dual-clutch transmission in the 2024 Ioniq 5 N provides a similar driving experience to an internal combustion engine vehicle, but without the emissions. It simulates gear shifting by adjusting torque output on the dual motors and includes artificial jolts and engine noises. Manual control can also be taken using shift paddles, and the system provides a cutoff sensation if timing is missed.

The Ioniq 5 N can deliver a combined maximum power of 478kW with its “N Grin Boost” mode and achieve a zero to 62mph sprint in about 3.4 seconds. This surpasses the normal Ioniq 5 AWD, which has a combined output of 239kW / 320 horsepower and is slower than the N variant. The Ioniq 5 N also boasts higher power than Tesla’s Model 3 Performance, which has an output of approximately 450 horsepower.

The Ioniq 5 N features a slightly different design compared to the regular model, including a deeper front bumper and a functional mesh for improved airflow. It also displays an N badge on the grille and sporty red accents on the front and rear bumpers. The vehicle’s skirt has a red pinstripe that runs around the perimeter, and it comes with 21-inch aluminum wheels for a stylish appearance.

As the automotive industry moves towards electric vehicles, manufacturers are seeking ways to appeal to enthusiasts who prefer traditional combustion engine cars. Ford created a six-speed manual gearbox for an electric Mustang, and Jeep’s Magneto EV concept aims to replicate the full-shift experience. Toyota is also developing a “manual” system for EVs, similar to the Ioniq 5 N, that simulates an unhappy transmission response if controls are mishandled.

Hyundai has previously developed electric performance N vehicles as concepts, such as the RN22e (modified Ioniq 6) and N Vision 74. The company is also working on a production version of the Kona N EV, which utilizes a different electric vehicle platform from the Ioniq’s E-GMP platform.

Despite not adopting the new Integrated Modular Architecture (IMA) EV platform, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N has a higher usable battery energy of 84kWh compared to the standard version’s 77.4kWh. The Ioniq 5 N supports 350kW charging, while other Hyundai vehicles do not charge as fast despite sharing the same platform. According to Hyundai, the N’s battery can charge from 10 to 80 percent in 18 minutes.

The Ioniq 5 N includes all the features of the regular version, including the vehicle-to-load (V2L) system that allows the car to serve as a mobile battery bank. However, the range of the Ioniq 5 N has not been disclosed, and based on the limited range of the Kia EV6 GT performance variant, long road trips may not be feasible.