The automotive world has long been resistant to the shift towards electric vehicles (EVs), with many enthusiasts arguing that the absence of a traditional engine feel and sound contributes to their perceived dullness. However, with the debut of the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, that narrative is beginning to change. This fully electric SUV is packed with features and enhancements that give it an amusingly engaging driving experience reminiscent of traditional gasoline-powered hot hatches. Among its standout attributes are the “N e-shift” and “N Active Sound Plus” systems, which not only redefine what an electric vehicle can be but also cater to the cravings for the visceral sensations that petrolheads cherish. These innovations combine to make driving the Ioniq 5 N a thrilling experience, showcasing how EVs can be both exciting and fun.
When the Hyundai Ioniq 5 was originally launched in 2021, it received widespread acclaim for its futuristic design and technological advancements, including an 800-volt charging system and its notable vehicle-to-load capability. The introduction of the Ioniq 5 N transforms this electric SUV into a high-performance machine, boasting an impressive 641 horsepower and 545 lb-ft of torque. This marks a significant leap over the standard Ioniq 5, nearly tripling its horsepower and doubling its torque. The enhancements don’t stop at power; with Hyundai’s fourth-generation 84kWh battery pack and a revamped chassis, suspension, and cooling systems, the Ioniq 5 N is engineered to thrive on the track and manage daily driving demands without compromising durability or performance.
Hyundai’s commitment to creating a robust performance vehicle is evident through their focus on track capabilities. The Ioniq 5 N can transition from a track-ready powerhouse capable of rapid charging—reaching 80% charge in just 18 minutes on a fast charger—to a reliable daily driver. Additional upgrades include sturdier brakes, a reinforced chassis, enhanced suspension, and specialized regenerative braking technology to reduce heat and enhance reliability under pressure. Such dedication ensures that the Ioniq 5 N can handle the rigors of competitive driving while remaining accessible for everyday users, striking an admirable balance that many electric performance vehicles struggle to achieve.
While its exhilarating performance is compelling, the Ioniq 5 N’s unique features, like the simulated internal combustion engine sounds and gear shifts, truly set it apart in the realm of electric vehicles. Automotive manufacturers have creatively manipulated audio and aesthetics since the inception of the car, and Hyundai embraces this trend with the N e-shift and N Active Sound Plus technology. The N e-shift feature utilizes the electric motor’s torque to create a simulated shifting experience, complete with audio cues that mimic traditional gear changes. Meanwhile, the N Active Sound Plus system generates three distinct sound profiles that reproduce the exhilarating acoustics of an internal combustion engine, a fighter jet, or a futuristic EV, adding layers of enjoyment to the driving experience and bridging the gap between the past and the electric future.
Driving the Ioniq 5 N in its N e-shift and Active Sound mode is a delightful experience that brings joy reminiscent of childhood play with toy cars. The synthesized sounds and dynamic shifts evoke feelings typically associated with driving classic performance vehicles. This playful aspect not only satisfies the demand for excitement among car enthusiasts but also makes a compelling case for those hesitant about the future of electric driving. Hyundai’s approach aims not just to provide an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional vehicles, but to redefine the interaction and engagement between the driver and their machine, proving that electric driving can be both delightful and thrilling.
In summary, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N emerges as a game-changer in the electric vehicle market, especially appealing to traditional automotive enthusiasts who may have previously dismissed EVs as uninspired and boring. With a powerhouse engine performance, innovative features that recreate the excitement of internal combustion engines, and a commitment to enhancing the driving experience, the Ioniq 5 N is more than just a performance SUV; it’s a playful embodiment of what an electric vehicle can achieve. By combining cutting-edge technology with delightful driving dynamics, it offers a glimpse into a future where enthusiasts and eco-conscious drivers can find common ground, proving that the transition to electric does not have to mean sacrificing fun behind the wheel.
