Hyundai Ioniq 5 N review: A hot hatch with supercar pace?

Hyundai’s inaugural attempt at a fast EV has become a trailblazer for involving electric driver’s cars. But how does Vicki feel about the Ioniq’s ICE-aping features?

With a chassis tuned by former BMW M Division boss, Albert Bierman, a 0-60 mph time of just 3.4 seconds, and a whole host of features designed to appeal to those who resent the switch to electrification, the Ioniq 5 N deserves all the hype it gets. However, while it sounds perfect on paper, what’s it like when you get it out on the open road? 

Due to its size and weight — the N is longer, wider, and heavier than the standard Ioniq — you’d think it might handle more like a cumbersome crossover than a lithe, agile hot hatch. You’d be wrong. As she throws it down a sweeping B road Vicki quickly spots that Bierman DNA shining through. According to the Driver Reviews host, the N’s combination of four-wheel drive and advanced electronically controlled suspension help it to shrink around the driver in a way that belies a hefty 2235 kg kerbweight.  

But that’s nothing compared to the way it accelerates. With over 650 bhp, it’s a savagely fast machine whichever mode you select, though the N-Grin mode delivers the greatest thrills. Offering maximum thrust for 10 seconds and three different levels of launch control, this hooligan setting does exactly what it says on the tin. Then, when you’ve had your fun, simply flick the switch back to Eco or Normal and ride that effortless wave of torque from the electric motors.

While there’s nothing new about a breathtakingly fast EV, the N’s pièce de resistance — and what Vicki particularly adores about the red-hot Ioniq — is the simulated gearbox, complete with rev counter and synthesised exhaust note. Designed to operate like a conventional dual clutch automatic gearbox, despite a total absence of any physical gears, this setting offers greater engagement by forcing the driver to work the paddles and find the optimal powerband. Sure, it might sound like a gimmick, but as far as Vicki’s concerned it’s a “stupefyingly brilliant” addition. Similarly, the DriverReviews host argues that the faux exhaust sound adds another dimension to the electric experience.  

In fact, these combustion inspired features are so entertaining they lead Vicki to conclude: “you can give an electric car real soul”. A bold claim, but is there anything she doesn’t like about the Ioniq 5 N? You’ll need to watch and find out.