IONIQ 5 N’s 0-100 km/h in 3.4 Seconds: Can You Handle the Electric Speed?

Hyundai Mobility Japan launched the “IONIQ 5 N” on June 5th. The IONIQ 5 N is a high-performance model based on Hyundai’s first BEV (full battery electric vehicle), the IONIQ 5, which debuted in 2021. The model name “N” represents Hyundai’s high-performance brand, a title given only to high-performance models.

The specifications include a front motor with 238 PS, a rear motor with 412 PS, and a maximum system output of 609 PS with a maximum torque of 740 Nm. When using the “N Grin Boost (NGB),” which temporarily enhances battery and motor output, the maximum system output increases to 650 PS with a maximum torque of 770 Nm. It boasts a top speed of 260 km/h and can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds, living up to the N’s high-performance reputation.

The body size measures 4715mm in length, 1945mm in width, and 1625mm in height, making it quite a large vehicle. Compared to the base IONIQ 5, it is 80mm longer, 55mm wider, and 20mm lower. The suspension features electronic control with large-capacity variable dampers, wheel G sensors, and a 6-axis gyro sensor. The brakes are equipped with large 400mm discs and 4-piston calipers at the front. The regenerative braking system also allows for a maximum deceleration of 0.6G. At the rear, an electronically controlled hydraulic e-LSD is installed to reduce the loss of drive power by controlling the driving force of the left and right rear wheels.

The lithium-ion battery has a capacity of 84kWh, and the driving range per charge is 561km in WLTC mode. The interior features an N badge on the steering wheel, an NGR boost function button, metal pedals, and a half-punched leather-wrapped steering wheel, but the comfort features remain largely unchanged from the IONIQ 5.

As touted as an “everyday sports car with EV-specific functions,” it is a high-performance car that can be used daily. The IONIQ 5 N is not a limited model but is included in the catalog lineup. The market’s response will be closely watched.

Hyundai has set the high-performance EV IONIQ 5 N price at 8.58 million yen, i.e.  approximately 55.16 thousand dollars. The IONIQ 5 N is Hyundai’s first high-performance EV and features three main pillars: “Corner Rascal,” “Racetrack Capability,” and “Everyday Sportscar.” Based on a high-performance all-wheel-drive system, it incorporates an 84.0kWh high-output battery and various technologies developed for high-performance EVs, including a thermal management system.

At the launch event held at the Hyundai Customer Experience Center in Yokohama on June 5, Hyundai Mobility Japan CEO Chang Wan-Jung addressed the audience, saying that they have grown to become the world’s third-largest automaker in 2022 and 2023. The IONIQ 5 N is one of the answers to what a true high-performance EV should be, not just delivering high power from its motor.

The exterior of the IONIQ 5 N is designed with the keywords “Strong” and “Aggressive,” evoking a dynamic and powerful drive even when stationary. The design features the pixel design theme common to Hyundai EVs, expressing the diversity of the IONIQ 5 N with both aggressiveness and delicacy. The interior design exudes a sense of eagerness to drive, with specially designed bucket seats to support occupants as a high-performance EV. However, it does not compromise on daily comfort, featuring seat heaters and ventilation.

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To ensure driving pleasure, the IONIQ 5 N has a reinforced body and chassis, with an increase of 42 spot welds and an additional 2.1 meters of adhesive, improving body torsional rigidity by about 11%. The subframe joints have also been strengthened, enhancing front wheel lateral rigidity by about 15% and rear wheel lateral rigidity by about 16%.

Since 2023, test vehicles have been brought to Japan for extensive testing at locations such as Fuji Speedway, Tsukuba Circuit, the many junctions of Tokyo’s highways, the mountainous Hakone Turnpike, and the cold winters of Hokkaido to ensure usability in daily life. The autonomous parking function has been updated to detect parking lines, and wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto has been added for improved usability.

At the launch event, President Chang announced the introduction of “N Performance Parts” around the fall of 2024. Yugo Horii, President of Autobacs Seven, stated, they will collaborate to revitalize the tuning culture of EVs along with the introduction of the IONIQ 5 N in Japan. The N Space Kyoto Shijo will be established at A PIT Autobacs Kyoto Shijo to experience the world of the N brand. Autobacs Seven will also develop original tuning parts for high-performance EVs, overseen by the Drift King, Keiichi Tsuchiya. These parts are scheduled to be unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Salon in January 2025, with the sales timing to be announced later.