2024 HYUNDAI IONIQ 5 N - THE HOT-HATCH EV!

EV Channels Review

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is presented as a serious performance EV, blending SUV practicality with hot-hatch aggression. The reviewer highlights its aggressive styling, functional vents, and large 21-inch wheels with substantial brakes, noting its substantial size (4.7m long, 1.9m wide) makes it feel beefier than a traditional hot hatch. A key focus is the "N active sound" and "e-shift" features, which emulate combustion engine sounds and gear shifts, adding an engaging, albeit artificial, layer to the driving experience, particularly on track or spirited roads. While the Alcantara bucket seats offer a sporty feel, they are deemed less comfortable for long journeys and manually operated, a point of contention for a €75,000 vehicle. The interior features a chunky steering wheel with physical buttons and a 12-inch touchscreen, complemented by a head-up display. Practicality is addressed with ample rear-seat space for children and adults, though the middle rear seat is tight. The boot offers under 500L capacity with intruding wheel arches. Performance is exceptional, with 610 hp standard and up to 650 hp with the "N Grin Boost," enabling blistering acceleration that significantly outpaces most traffic. However, this performance comes at a steep range cost, with consumption soaring to around 50 kWh/100km during high-speed driving, drastically reducing the real-world range from a claimed 400 km (with normal driving). The reviewer concludes that the Ioniq 5 N successfully earns its N badge, offering a dual personality as a crazy performance machine or a sensible family SUV, making it a very desirable car, especially for those who can utilize its track capabilities.