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The Street

James Ochoa

Hyundai's expensive new EV is a Porsche-fighting track weapon

Hyundai Porsche

South Korean automaker Hyundai (HYMLF) is betting big on its electric prospects, as its newest vehicle is the most expensive, and most powerful, car to ever wear a Hyundai badge.

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The $67,475 Hyundai Ionic 5 N may induce some sticker shock for those used to the brand's traditional cut-rate prices, but the hatchback concocted by the wizards from Ulsan is an electric performance powerhouse that is better suited against the likes of Porsche and BMW.

Under its skin is a brand new 84kWh battery pack and a dual motor all-wheel-drive set up that is built for nothing but sports car levels of performance, as it generates 601 hp and 545 pound feet of torque through all four wheels. Zero to 60 miles an hour is dealt with in 3.2 seconds and can go up to a electronically limited top speed of 162 miles an hour.

Though these impressive performance figures alone sound like a great value, straight-up power is not its only party trick. Hyundai has packed the Ioniq 5 N with a plethora of electronic gizmos designed to bring out the inner race car driver inside its customers.

The special Ioniq comes with a quicker power steering system, an electronic video game-esqe "boost"-like feature called N Grin Boost that increases the car's total horsepower to 641 hp for 10 seconds, as well as electronic aids specifically designed for drifting.

Other highlights of a massive list of electronic toys that comes standard also include a feature called "N E-Shift Mode" that simulates a Formula One-style dual-clutch transmission, as well as another feature called "N Active Sound Plus," which recreates the noise from a loud, gas-powered high performance engine.

Although it sounds like Hyundai is offering its customers a long list of unnecessary gimmicks in its so-called performance car, Hyundai intends for people to use this electric car on the racetrack.

Embedded within these features is a suite of technology called 'N Race,' which allows performance minded drivers to max out, or extend the amount of time they want to stay on a race track. The software allows for drivers to make a selection of adjustments to the car that prioritizes what it calls ‘Endurance’ or ‘Sprint.’ In endurance mode, the car limits power for maximum range, while sprint mode prioritizes power and provides the driver with short bursts of full power.

View the 8 images of this gallery on the original article

On the outside, Hyundai makes its performance-minded hatchback different from the other Ioniq 5's on the road, featuring a slew of blacked-out trim, an aggressive body kit with a prominent rear spoiler and a lower, wider stance featuring thicker Pirelli performance tires.

Inside, the performance inspiration does not end, with prominent 'N' performance branding all around, including the performance steering wheel, and the "track-ready" seats that are designed to hold drivers in during especially spirited driving.

More Business of EVs:

Hyundai says that the $67,475 Ioniq 5 N will start arriving at dealers as soon as this month.

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