FYI: The battle between Tesla’s Model 3 Performance and Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 N is reshaping the landscape of high-performance electric vehicles. While the Hyundai brings more power, the Tesla demonstrates that speed doesn’t always come from muscle alone.
Tesla’s Model 3 Performance, once the benchmark for affordable high-performance EVs, now faces competition from an unexpected player: Hyundai. Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 N has arrived as a formidable opponent in the EV market, offering a staggering 641 horsepower compared to Tesla’s 510. However, these numbers don’t tell the full story of their rivalry.
### High Performance Meets Innovation
Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 N is not just about raw power; it offers a futuristic driving experience. Utilizing a dual-motor setup, it channels 545 pound-feet of torque to its four wheels. An interesting feature is Hyundai’s ‘N Grin Boost’ button, which unleashes an extra 50 horsepower for a brief 30 seconds, pushing the vehicle to achieve 0-60 mph in just 3.25 seconds. Real-world tests are even clocking it at a stunning 2.8 seconds.
Yet even with these credentials, the Ioniq 5 N faces stiff competition when pitted against the Tesla Model 3 Performance in a series of drag races.
### The Drag Race Showdown
During head-to-head quarter-mile races, both the Ioniq 5 N and the Model 3 Performance delivered exhilarating performances, though the Tesla emerged superior. Despite its theoretical power advantage, the Hyundai fell short, primarily due to its added weight. The Ioniq 5 N is about 800 pounds heavier than the Model 3, and this difference makes a significant impact during races.
Analyzing quarter-mile times reveals the scale of this impact. In three consecutive races, the Tesla consistently finished first, with its best time recorded at 11.37 seconds. Meanwhile, the Hyundai managed a best of 11.64 seconds but struggled against its heavier frame.
### Understanding Performance Dynamics
The results might seem surprising, given the Hyundai’s horsepower lead, but factors like weight distribution and aerodynamics play critical roles. Tesla’s Model 3, lighter and more streamlined, utilized its power more efficiently, securing victory in all three races.
### Price and Practicality
Cost is another pivotal factor for potential EV buyers. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N commands a premium price of $67,495, while the Tesla Model 3 Performance is more reasonably priced at $54,630. The Tesla also stretches further on a single charge, offering an estimated 303-mile range compared to the Hyundai’s 278 miles.
### Driving Experience: A Comparison
Despite Tesla’s superior performance, Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 N isn’t just about speed. It’s crafted for a captivating driving experience. The Ioniq 5 N incorporates simulated engine noises and gear shifts, reminiscent of traditional internal combustion engines, adding an emotional touch that’s rare in the EV world.
Both vehicles cater to audiences seeking a blend of everyday usability and racing excitement. Hyundai takes the lead in offering a more “traditional” driving experience, while Tesla remains the performance benchmark at its price point.
In conclusion, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N offers a unique twist with its fusion of performance and engaging driving dynamics, but the Tesla Model 3 Performance remains the go-to choice for those seeking optimal speed and efficiency in the EV segment.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
