Sunday Drive: 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N – Electrifying performance meets futuristic design
The world of electric vehicles is ever-changing and evolving as new and unique concepts come to the table from a myriad of manufacturers, as they all race to gain acceptance and notoriety for their vehicles. Electric vehicles open up an entirely different arena for the manufacturer to ‘play in,’ as we found in our past week with the N Line Hyundai Ioniq 5.
Hyundai’s N division, already known for its high-performance vehicles, has taken the Ioniq 5 — a vehicle already lauded for its innovation — and infused it with the kind of exhilarating performance that can only come from the track-inspired minds behind the N badge.
In the back of our minds, we are thinking that there are a bunch of speed demons sitting around a table at Hyundai discussing the possibilities of making a 600-horsepower “hot hatchback,” and then one of them says, “Yea, and what if we add a temporary boost button that will give it 640 horsepower for a few seconds?” Seems like this may change the world of street racing and hot laps at any track as we move into an electric-infused future.
As we received word we would have the small rocket for a week, we figured it would prove to be too short of a week. And indeed it was.
Design: A blend of futurism and functionality
At first glance, the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N really struck a balance between futurism and functionality in our minds. The car retained the retro-modern aesthetic of the standard Ioniq 5, with its sharp lines and pixel-inspired LED lighting, with a wide stance that gave it a planted, muscular look. However, the N treatment brought some subtle yet impactful changes that underscored its high-performance credentials.
The front fascia was more aggressive, with larger air intakes that not only enhanced the car’s sporty appearance but also improved cooling for the battery and motors; yes, that is a thing with the new electric vehicles — they still produce heat!
The side profile was distinguished by unique N badging, 21-inch alloy wheels and red brake calipers that peeked through the spokes — hints of the performance potential that lied just under the skin. The rear was equally striking, with a sporty spoiler, a rear diffuser and more angular tail lamps, all of which contributed to the car’s aerodynamic efficiency.
Inside of the Ioniq 5 was where the future really has set in. The cabin was dominated by a minimalist design, with clean lines and high-quality materials that exuded a sense of sophistication. The N-specific details, such as the sport seats with additional bolstering, N logos and contrasting stitching, reminded us that this was not just any EV — it was a Hyundai N line. The digital dashboard and the 12-inch touch screen infotainment system were seamlessly integrated, providing a high-tech interface that was intuitive and user friendly.
Performance: Electrifying power and precision
The real heartbeat of the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N was its dual-motor setup, which delivered a combined output of 600 horsepower and 545 pound-feet of torque, thus making it the most powerful production Hyundai ever made!
This was completely evident from the moment we first pressed on the accelerator, the car launched from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.0 seconds, rivaling some of the best sports cars on the market. The power delivery was instantaneous, thanks to the inherent characteristics of electric motors, and the sensation was nothing short of exhilarating — like being strapped to the back of a rocket ship!
However, we found that the Ioniq 5 N is not just about straight-line speed. Hyundai’s engineers equipped the car with an advanced all-wheel-drive system that provided exceptional grip and stability, whether we were navigating tight corners, cruising on the highway or perhaps taking a day out on the track. The electronically controlled suspension adapts in real-time to road conditions and driving style, offering a perfect balance between comfort and performance.
One of the most impressive aspects of the Ioniq 5 N we found was the level of customization it offered. We could choose from multiple drive modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport and N mode, each altering the car’s throttle response, suspension stiffness and steering feel. The N mode, in particular, unleashed the car’s full performance potential, with more aggressive power delivery and sharper handling characteristics.
For those like Craig who crave even more control, the N Grin Control System allowed us to fine-tune the car’s performance parameters, from the regenerative braking level to the torque distribution between the front and rear axles. This level of personalization is rare in any vehicle, let alone an EV, and it ensured that the Ioniq 5 N would cater to a wide range of driving preferences, from daily commuting to thrilling track days.
For those who crave even more, sounds of an engine can be added inside the cabin to give a more realistic sound to the silent electric motors, along with paddle shifters that would imitate a real transmission with shift points and a simulated red line for each gear when engaged.
Technology: Cutting-edge features and connectivity
The Ioniq 5 N was packed with advanced technology that enhanced both our driving experience and everyday usability. The centerpiece of the cabin was the dual 12-inch displays — one for the digital instrument cluster and one for the infotainment system. These high-resolution screens were crisp and responsive, providing all the necessary information we needed at a glance. The infotainment system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless connectivity with our smartphones.
Hyundai has also equipped the Ioniq 5 N with a host of driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring and a 360-degree camera system. These systems work together to make driving safer and less stressful. The car also features Hyundai’s latest iteration of Smart Park, which allows the vehicle to park itself in tight spaces — perfect for urban environments.
One of the standout features of the Ioniq 5 N is its ability to support ultra-fast charging. Thanks to its 800-volt architecture, the car can charge from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes when connected to a 350-kilowatt fast charger. The car also supports bidirectional charging, meaning it can act as a power source for external devices or even your home in an emergency.
At the end of week
The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N sets a new benchmark in the world of performance EVs. It combined the cutting-edge technology and practicality of the standard Ioniq 5 with the exhilarating performance and driving dynamics that the N division is known for.
Whether you’re looking for a daily driver that can handle the rigors of commuting or a weekend warrior capable of delivering thrills on the open road or on the track, the Ioniq 5 N is more than just a compelling choice.
Base price: $66,100
Destination charge: $1,375
Price as driven: $68,685
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- Deanne stands with the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N at the end of our week in downtown Springville. What an awesome and fun hatchback the Ioniq 5 turned out to be!
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- Inside the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.
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- Charging the Ionig in Green River, Utah on our way to Denver, it took about 20 minutes to go from 28% to 80% — very close to the claims from Hyundai.
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- Inside the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.
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- The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.
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- Inside the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.
