Electric vehicles are changing the game when it comes to horsepower, and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is leading the charge. Packing a staggering 601 horsepower, with a boost to 641 hp for those adrenaline-pumping 10-second bursts, this compact SUV redefines “Fastest Hyundai”. Don’t let the SUV shape fool you; the Ioniq 5 N can hit a top speed of 162 mph and scorch from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.25 seconds when you engage the N Grin Boost. This level of performance puts it squarely in rally-car territory, a fact underscored by an Ioniq 5 N’s victory in the exhibition class at the demanding Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. As noted in a SlashGear review, experiencing the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is like “living with a track star”. While the starting price of $66,100 might seem like a jump for a Hyundai, it buys you instant-on EV power, impressive torque, and the everyday practicality of an SUV.
Powering this fastest Hyundai contender is an 84kWh battery feeding juice to dual electric motors, strategically placed at the front and rear to create an all-wheel-drive system. For those track days, the Ioniq 5 N features an N Drift Optimizer setting. This clever system shifts more power to the rear wheels, mimicking a rear-wheel-drive setup for controlled and precise drifts. Braking performance is equally serious, with N-tuned brakes designed to handle extreme heat from repeated hard stops, complemented by advanced regenerative braking technology. Hyundai’s e-LSD, or electronic Limited Slip Differential, further enhances handling by rapidly distributing power between the left and right wheels, ensuring maximum control. Hyundai proudly states that all these high-performance features underwent rigorous testing at the legendary Nurburgring track.
To amplify the driving experience, the Ioniq 5 N incorporates N Active Sound+. This system provides a choice of three distinct sound profiles through eight internal and two external speakers. Drivers can choose simulations ranging from high-revving engines to rally cars or even supersonic jets. While some might see this as a gimmick, it’s worth remembering that electric cars are significantly quieter than their internal combustion counterparts. This sound system can actually enhance safety by alerting pedestrians and other drivers to your presence, especially when approaching corners. More than that, it simply adds to the fun factor, and with a dedicated N Grin Shift button, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is clearly designed to maximize driver enjoyment.
