Hyundai Ioniq 5 N: A Future Classic in the Making

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N stands out as one of the most exciting electric vehicles hitting the market and could arguably become a future classic. This car is destined to captivate enthusiasts at car shows for years to come, thanks to its unique blend of high performance and innovative design.

The Ioniq 5 N’s thrilling driving experience is largely delivered through advanced software, rather than traditional mechanical engineering tweaks. And that’s okay because it works. This electric hot hatch offers 641 horsepower, an all-wheel-drive system, and an eye-catching robin’s egg blue paint with orange accents. It’s not just visually appealing; it’s incredibly fun to drive and live with, boasting ample rear seat space and storage, making it as practical as it is exhilarating.

Multifunctional Hot Hatch: Performance Meets Practicality

A hot hatch is often touted as the only car you’ll ever need, and the Ioniq 5 N fits this description perfectly. However, for long holiday trips, you might still prefer renting an internal combustion engine (ICE) car to avoid extensive charging stops.

Electrifying Drive Experience

The Ioniq 5 N doesn’t just perform well; it actively entertains. Accelerating down scenic routes, you’ll be amused by artificial engine sounds and simulated gear shifts meticulously designed to enhance the driving experience. The car even mimics the crackling and popping of an exhaust on deceleration, a feature that’s both ridiculous and delightful.

A Family Favorite

Bringing in family perspectives, my son had a blast experiencing the novelty of the Ioniq 5 N’s special features. His giggles at the car’s faux "fart" sounds and the multi-colored ambient lighting say it all: this car is more than just a means of transport; it brings joy to its passengers.

Complex Customization

Despite its playful nature, the Ioniq 5 N’s user interface for customizing drive modes and other settings can be bewildering. It features numerous buttons and options that can be hard to figure out without a detailed manual. There’s a blue drive mode button for Eco, Normal, and Sport modes, and two "N" buttons for Habanero N drive mode and Custom modes. However, the process to activate Custom modes isn’t intuitive, requiring multiple steps through the touch screen.

A Plethora of Sound Choices

Among the various simulated powertrain sounds, my favorite was the "Ignition" setting, which mimics a high-performance turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Nevertheless, Hyundai has other options, like "Evolution" and "Supersonic," which can be a bit more hit or miss. An inline 6 or a flat-plane V8 sound option would make a fantastic addition to the range.

Too Many Gears?

Hyundai’s choice to simulate an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission might be excessive. The extra gears are intended for fuel efficiency, but for everyday driving, especially on highways, it seems like six gears would suffice. Fewer gears might make the car more straightforward to enjoy without detracting from its character.

Diverse Acceleration Modes

The Ioniq 5 N provides a variety of ways to achieve a 0 to 60 mph sprint, depending on the settings and sounds selected. For the most powerful acceleration, engage N mode and press the orange NGB steering wheel button. This unleashes all 641 horsepower for a brief, heart-racing 10 seconds.

Driving Dynamics

Despite its heavy build, the Ioniq 5 N is agile and enjoyable to maneuver through twisty roads, thanks to smart suspension tuning and powertrain tricks. It manages to feel more compact and nimble than its large dimensions would suggest.

Interior Comfort and Features

One minor drawback is the manual adjustment of seats in a car priced at $66,100. While the seats themselves offer excellent support and comfort, the lack of power adjustment and memory settings makes it less convenient for families sharing the vehicle.

Infotainment System Woes

Hyundai’s new infotainment system leaves much to be desired. It’s slow to boot and cumbersome to navigate, especially for controlling the climate seats. Changes to the radio interface also limit your ability to view song information seamlessly, a downgrade from previous models.

A True Contender

Despite the issues mentioned above, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N stands out as a remarkable vehicle. Its mix of fun, practicality, and innovative features secures its spot as my favorite car. It’s cool, fast, environmentally friendly, and offers an unforgettable driving experience.

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Jack Carney, Editor of Automotive.fyi