Hyundai Ioniq 5 gets N performance variant

Inside, a checkered flag spin on Hyundai’s signature pixels are displayed on the door scuff panels, metal pedals and footrest, in addition to other exclusive N-inspired badging and seat bolsters.

The Ioniq 5 N also is loaded with tech that backs up its track-ready appearance.

For sharper corner entry, the body and the chassis feature reinforcements providing higher torsional rigidity and direct steering feel, which Hyundai said enable rally-inspired cornering.

A smart software function called N Pedal helps better distribute the Ioniq 5’s size and weight, and prioritizes fast cornering over energy efficiency.

The Ioniq 5 N uses other electronic controls when drifting, including N Drift Optimizer that balances multiple vehicle controls responding to real-time inputs to maintain drift angle and Torque Kick Drift that simulates clutch kick action for more immediate drift initiation.

A boost mode, called N Grin Boost, maximizes acceleration and N Launch Control provides three traction levels for a race car-like start. N Race mode gives the driver control over the EV’s energy usage with an Endurance setting for more range and a Sprint setting for shorter bursts of power.

While the Ioniq 5 N does not change gears, N e-Shift mimics the sensory experience of power delivery and the jolt of shifting an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. N Active Sound + complements the gearbox simulation with an ICE-like engine and exhaust soundtrack offering a hint of a futuristic EV. Hyundai said these technologies are a direct response to performance enthusiasts wanting more driver feedback from EVs.

To avoid overheating, the EV’s battery thermal management system has a larger cooling area, better motor oil cooler and battery chiller. It also has independent radiators for the battery and motor to avoid performance degradation before and during track racing.

The Ioniq 5 N also features 400-mm front brakes with four-piston monobloc calipers and 360-mm rear discs constructed from lightweight material. The regenerative braking system used for battery efficiency is tuned for enhanced braking performance and serves as the primary source of brake force. Mechanical brakes supplement on the track.