Hyundai Ioniq 5 N launched in Malaysia – powerful electric hatchback with 650hp, 770Nm torque with 8-speed automatic transmission; 0-100km/h in 3.4 seconds; RM390,000?
Here’s a surprise from Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM). Sitting in the corner of Hyundai’s booth at the Sime Darby Motors Automania event that started today (Carpark B, Bukit Jalil National Stadium) is this, Hyundai Ioniq 5N. This is Ioniq 5 electric car Produced by the automaker’s N performance division, the 2024 World Performance Car of the Year features incredible performance and looks.
The local launch version of the I5N is being advertised by HSDM as a preview – there’s no official price tag, but officials say they’re open for orders, which means if you want one of these light blue beasts (other colours are available, of course), you can get in touch with HSDM. More on RRPs below. This is the Malaysian distributor’s second N offering, by the way, after the i30 N.
The I5N twin-motor AWD system has a total output of 609 PS (448 kW) and 740 Nm of torque. When the N Grin Boost (NGB) is activated, the maximum figures increase to 650 PS (478 kW) and 770 Nm in 10 seconds, and acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes just 3.4 seconds, or a tenth slower without NGB. Top speed is 260 km/h.
Powering the pair of electric motors is an 84 kWh lithium-ion battery that provides a range of up to 448 km in the WLTP cycle. The maximum DC fast charging rate is 350 kW and this 800V EV can achieve a 10-80% state of charge in just 18 minutes.
Compared to the regular Ioniq 5, the N version has a wider body, redesigned front and rear bumpers for improved cooling and aerodynamics, a black interior with many sporty accents, bucket seats (with illuminated N logos), a more rigid white body structure, an electronic limited-slip rear differential (e-LSD) and more powerful brakes with red-painted brake calipers.
There’s also a list of N-branded features that add performance and/or fun – these include:
- N Pedal – provides instant turn-in behavior and improved throttle response
- N Drift Optimiser – maintain drift angle easier
- N Torque Distribution – provides fully variable front and rear torque distribution with 11 levels of adjustment
- N Grin Boost – temporary power boost
- N Launch Control – provides three different levels of traction for the best possible start
- N Prep the battery – set up the battery for specific riding requirements: Pull for short-term power increases and Track for the lowest possible battery temperature for more laps.
- N Race – optimizes EV endurance by giving the driver more direct control over the vehicle’s energy usage: Endurance, which maximizes range on the track, or Sprint, which prioritizes power and provides shorter bursts of energy
- N Brake Regen – a special regenerative braking system that provides deceleration forces of up to 0.6 G
- N e-shift – simulates the shifting process performed by an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission by controlling the output torque, providing a jerky feel between shifts
- N Active Sound+ – uses 10 speakers (eight internal, two external) to create three distinct sound themes
The Ioniq 5 N has all the makings of a desirable performance/ICE car, just electric. How much does it cost? HSDM hasn’t officially mentioned a figure, but the sales staff at the event told us that the asking price is RM390k, and the car on display here is the last of three from the first batch that has yet to find an owner. Also, it’s only a provisional order.
EV enthusiasts will definitely think of Tesla Model 3 Performance as a rival. The M3P has 460hp, a 0-100km/h time of 3.1 seconds and a top speed of 261km/h. The sedan’s 79kWh battery pack gives it a WLTP range of up to 528km. It’s priced from RM242k before options, which is a lot cheaper than the Hyundai, but the Tesla is less sporty and perhaps less ‘enthusiast’ than the I5N, which is also quite impressive.
Browse the photo gallery below and let us know what you think of the Ioniq 5 N.
PHOTO GALLERY: Hyundai Ioniq 5 N at Sime Darby Motors Automania
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