Hyundai has just taken a significant leap in its electrification journey by unveiling the all-new 2025 IONIQ 5 N, marking the first electrified model under the N performance brand. Designed to satisfy the driving passion of performance enthusiasts, the IONIQ 5 N combines the cutting-edge technology of Hyundai’s Electrified-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) with the brand’s high-performance N characteristics. This vehicle is a statement of Hyundai’s commitment to providing electrified performance that excels both on the road and the racetrack.
1. A Bold Step Forward for the N Brand
The IONIQ 5 N is Hyundai’s first foray into electric performance vehicles under its N brand, signaling the start of a new chapter. José Muñoz, Hyundai Motor North America’s president and CEO, highlighted the IONIQ 5 N as a key driver of the company’s advanced technology, reflecting Hyundai’s ability to elevate vehicle performance. The vehicle leverages Hyundai’s award-winning E-GMP platform and incorporates N motorsport technologies developed through its electrified ‘Rolling Labs’ like the RM20e, RN22e, and N Vision 74 concepts. This development ensures the IONIQ 5 N lives up to the N brand’s performance pillars: ‘Corner Rascal,’ ‘Racetrack Capability,’ and ‘Everyday Sportscar.’
2. Performance-Oriented Engineering
The IONIQ 5 N is engineered for exceptional performance, beginning with its reinforced body structure that includes 42 additional welding points and nearly seven feet of extra structural adhesives. It features dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) with rally-inspired handling capabilities, using integrated drive axles (IDAs) similar to those found in World Rally Championship cars. This setup provides robust support for the electric motors’ torque while minimizing unsprung mass, thanks to the use of lightweight 21-inch forged aluminum wheels.
The N-specific enhancements continue with a specially-tuned Rack-Mounted Motor-Driven Power Steering (R-MDPS) system for precise feedback and a quicker steering ratio, giving drivers a direct and communicative experience behind the wheel. The introduction of the N Pedal feature optimizes throttle response and turn-in behavior, leveraging deceleration forces to enhance cornering sharpness—drawing inspiration from the regenerative braking systems used in Hyundai’s championship-winning i20 N WRC cars.
3. Advanced Drifting and Torque Management
For those who enjoy the thrill of drifting, the IONIQ 5 N comes equipped with N Drift Optimizer, which maintains optimal drift angles through precise vehicle control systems. The integrated Torque Kick Drift function emulates the clutch-kick technique of traditional rear-wheel-drive cars, providing immediate drift initiation. Drivers can also customize torque distribution across the front and rear wheels through the N Torque Distribution system, which includes 11 adjustable levels and a rear electronic limited-slip differential (e-LSD) for superior cornering performance.
4. Powerful Electric Propulsion and Cooling Systems
At the heart of the IONIQ 5 N is an advanced electric propulsion system featuring a dual-motor setup capable of spinning at up to 21,000 RPM, delivering an estimated 641 horsepower with N Grin Boost engaged. This is made possible by an 84 kWh battery and a two-stage inverter designed for higher energy efficiency and increased power output. The vehicle also includes a sophisticated thermal management system to prevent power degradation during intense track sessions, utilizing enhanced motor oil cooling, a battery chiller, and optimized cooling pathways.
5. N Race: A New Dimension of Track Control
Hyundai introduces the N Race feature, providing drivers with a choice between ‘Endurance’ and ‘Sprint’ modes to manage energy consumption based on driving conditions. This motorsport-derived feature allows for optimal energy use on the track without the need for a full pit crew, enhancing the IONIQ 5 N’s usability as a high-performance everyday sportscar.
6. Cutting-Edge Braking Systems
The IONIQ 5 N boasts Hyundai’s most powerful braking system to date, with large rotors and advanced materials for exceptional stopping power and heat management. The N Brake Regen system, specifically developed for the Nürburgring Nordschleife’s demanding conditions, provides up to 0.6 g of deceleration force using regenerative braking alone, reducing reliance on mechanical brakes and enhancing track performance.
7. Enhanced Driver Engagement
Fulfilling the N brand’s promise of providing a thrilling driving experience, the IONIQ 5 N integrates N e-shift and N Active Sound+ to simulate the shifting sensation of an internal combustion engine vehicle. N e-shift mimics the feel of an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, offering drivers a more tactile and engaging experience. N Active Sound+ delivers three distinct sound themes, including the ‘Ignition’ and ‘Evolution’ modes, which replicate the sound of high-performance engines and twin-engine fighter jets, respectively, adding an auditory dimension to the driving experience.
8. Aerodynamic Design and Interior Details
The exterior design of the IONIQ 5 N is optimized for both aesthetics and performance, featuring a lower stance, wider track, and aerodynamic enhancements like an N-exclusive rear wing spoiler and diffuser. The interior is outfitted with N-branded elements, including a specially designed steering wheel, sport bucket seats with reinforced bolsters, and track-inspired pedals, ensuring that every detail contributes to the vehicle’s performance pedigree.
The 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 N sets a new standard in the world of electrified performance, combining cutting-edge technology with the exhilarating driving dynamics the N brand is known for. It’s a testament to Hyundai’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what electric vehicles can achieve, offering an engaging, powerful, and versatile driving experience for enthusiasts who crave both everyday practicality and racetrack thrills.
