You might raise an eyebrow at seeing an electric vehicle listed among the top Hatchback Sports Cars, but the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is here to electrify the segment and prove its place. This isn’t just another EV; it’s a high-performance machine engineered to thrill, blending the practicality of a hatchback with the exhilarating spirit of a sports car.
Underneath its stylish hatchback silhouette lies a potent dual-motor electric powertrain. With an electric motor powering each axle, the Ioniq 5 N unleashes a staggering 601bhp. For those moments when you crave even more adrenaline, the N Grin Boost mode unlocks a temporary surge to 641bhp for up to 10 seconds. Engage launch control, and this electric hatchback sports car catapults from 0 to 62mph in a mere 3.4 seconds, leaving many traditional sports cars in its dust. This blistering acceleration firmly establishes it as a frontrunner in the realm of performance hatchbacks.
However, the Ioniq 5 N is more than just raw power. Hyundai has infused it with innovative features that enhance driver engagement and provide a unique sports car experience. The standout technologies are the N e-Shift and N Active Sound Plus driving modes. N e-Shift cleverly simulates the feel of an eight-speed automatic transmission, complete with simulated gear changes controlled via steering wheel paddles. This feature provides a tactile and auditory experience familiar to sports car enthusiasts. Complementing this, N Active Sound Plus generates artificial engine sounds both inside and outside the vehicle, adding another layer of sensory excitement to the driving experience, making it feel more akin to a conventional hatchback sports car.
The result is an electric vehicle that transcends the typical EV driving experience. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N delivers playful handling and genuine driving fun, proving that electric hatchback sports cars can be just as engaging and exciting as their petrol-powered counterparts. Of course, this level of innovation and performance comes at a premium. The Ioniq 5 N sits at the higher end of the price spectrum, reflecting its advanced technology and capabilities within the hatchback sports cars market.
“Beneath the surface, the Ioniq 5 N is closely related to the Kia EV6 GT. However, it has new suspension, bigger brakes, quicker steering, reinforced underpinnings and a vast array of drive modes to distinguish it from its cousin. I found the difference was like night and day.” – Oliver Young, Used Cars Reporter
For those seeking a thrilling blend of practicality and performance in the hatchback sports cars category, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N presents a compelling and electrifying option.
Read our in-depth Hyundai Ioniq 5 N review
