Other upgrades include a strengthened steering column for improved feedback, Electronic Controlled Suspension that adapts suspension stiffness according to the drive mode, and a suite of sophisticated electronic control technology in E-GMP platform. Highlights include N Pedal, an intelligent software function that provides instant turn-in and enhanced throttle sensitivity for exhilarating cornering, and fully variable front and rear N Torque Distribution.
The IONIQ 5 N also sets a new benchmark in terms of emotional engagement for a performance EV, courtesy of N e-shift, which simulates the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission of internal combustion engine N cars, while the addictive soundtrack comes via innovative N Active Sound+ technology. N e-shift and N Active Sound+ were praised by Autocar, with Mark Tisshaw adding:
"There are a lot of settings menu to experiment with, and the IONIQ 5 lets you tailor the driving experience to your driving preferences. Within reason, it can be whatever you want it to be" - Mark Tisshaw, Autocar Editor
The recognition from Autocar is the latest in a series of accolades for the IONIQ 5 N, including being crowned 2024 World Performance Car in the World Car Awards. In December it was names TopGear.com's overall 2023 Car of the Year, following that up in May as Best EV Hot Hatch in the TopGear.com Electric Awards. In the same month, CAR hailed it as the world's best electric performance car following a definitive seven-car test, while earlier in June it won Auto Trader's Rory Reid Award as the finest model tested by the presented over the past year.
The IONIQ 5 N has also made history at the Nürburgring, where it recorded the fastest electric SUV lap time with Germany’s Sport Auto.
"The awards just keep on coming for the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N, a car we have consistently described as a game changer for electrified performance. It is pleasing to see that the experts at Autocar agree, and also recognise that as well as being a great car to drive, the IONIQ 5 is comfortable and extremely user friendly, making it an exceptional ownership proposition" - Ashley Andrew, President of Hyundai & Genesis UK