Hyundai Launches First N Brand High-Performance EV, the IONIQ 5 N, in the US
Hyundai has officially introduced its first electric vehicle under the high-performance N brand, the IONIQ 5 N, in the North American market, marking a significant milestone for the automaker. With a starting price of $66,100 (excluding destination fees), the IONIQ 5 N boasts a robust 641 horsepower, setting what Hyundai describes as a “new benchmark for engaging, all-electric high performance.” This introduction has sparked conversations about how it compares to its competitor, the Tesla Model Y Performance.
The unveiling took place at Automobility LA in November, and the IONIQ 5 N is set to arrive at US dealers this month. “Our fully equipped IONIQ 5 N delivers a new level of driver engagement in the world of all-electric high performance,” stated Hyundai North America CEO Jose Munoz.
Engineered to elevate the driving experience, the IONIQ 5 N integrates new technologies to enhance the three foundational “N pillars”: Corner Rascal, Racetrack Capability, and Everyday Sportscar. It leverages Hyundai’s E-GMP platform and a dual-motor setup to achieve up to 641 horsepower (478 kW), attributed to a novel two-stage inverter that augments output from the vehicle’s new 84 kWh battery. The N Grin Boost mode allows the EV’s motors to reach up to 21,000 rpm, unlocking the full 641 hp for 10 seconds.
Additional features, including the N Pedal, N Drift Optimizer, and N Torque Distribution, have been introduced to improve handling and cornering. The N Race feature, optimized for endurance racing, along with new N-tuned brakes—the most powerful in Hyundai’s lineup—promise enhanced performance on the track. To complement the driving experience, Hyundai integrated N e-shift and N Active Sound features to mimic the sensory feedback of an internal combustion engine sports car.
Aesthetic enhancements such as a black wing and wing-type spoiler not only improve the IONIQ 5 N’s aerodynamics but also contribute to its sporty allure. The car has been designed to be 0.79 inches lower and 2.0 inches wider than the standard IONIQ 5, further emphasizing its performance-oriented nature.
Inside, the vehicle boasts an array of N-branded elements, spanning from the steering wheel and seats to the door scuff panels and metal panels, creating a cohesive and immersive driving environment.
In contrast, the Tesla Model Y Performance, a key rival in the high-performance EV sector, starts at $52,590 and offers up to 455 horsepower, with a 0 to 60 mph acceleration time of 3.5 seconds.
As the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N rolls out to dealers across the US, potential buyers are left weighing their options between Hyundai’s latest electric marvel and Tesla’s established performance offering.
