Hyundai Ioniq 5 N Sets a New Performance EV Benchmark, Impressing Even Porsche Engineers
For years, the automotive landscape has been sculpted by tradition, with established titans of performance engine
ering often setting the pace. However, the past decade has witnessed a seismic shift, driven by innovation and a relentless pursuit of excellence from brands once considered underdogs. Among these rising stars, Hyundai has consistently demonstrated a commitment to pushing boundaries, particularly in the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) segment. Their flagship performance model, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, has recently garnered significant attention, not just from enthusiasts and critics, but from the very heart of a legendary performance marque: Porsche.
Frank Moser, Vice President of the Porsche 718 and 911 model lines, reportedly described the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N as an “eye-opening” experience for Porsche’s own engineering teams. This endorsement from a figurehead within a company synonymous with driving purity and track-honed performance is a testament to the Ioniq 5 N’s profound impact. It underscores a critical evolution in how performance is perceived and delivered in the electric era, suggesting that even the most seasoned engineers are finding valuable lessons in Hyundai’s electrified prowess.
The initial reaction from many in the automotive community might be one of surprise, even skepticism. After all, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N enters a market segment traditionally dominated by established luxury and performance brands. Yet, the narrative of Hyundai’s rapid ascent in quality and performance over the past few years is undeniable. This trajectory has been particularly pronounced in their EV offerings, with the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N standing as the zenith of this progress. According to reports from the Australian publication Drive, the Ioniq 5 N has made a significant impression on the engineering minds at Porsche, a company that has spent decades perfecting internal combustion engine performance.
Moser’s comments, made in direct conversation with Drive, reveal a deep appreciation for the Ioniq 5 N’s innovative approach to the EV driving experience. He characterized the vehicle as truly “eye-opening” for the Porsche brand, indicating that his team spent considerable time evaluating its capabilities. What seemingly captivated Moser and his colleagues the most were the Ioniq 5 N’s meticulously crafted simulated gear shifts and its dynamically generated internal combustion engine (ICE) soundtrack. “We learned a lot from that [Ioniq 5 N],” Moser is quoted as saying. “I drove it several times. They made it really, really good.” This statement is not merely a casual observation; it signifies a strategic assessment of a competitor’s strengths, revealing a genuine respect for the engineering executed by Hyundai.
The sentiment extends beyond Moser. The same interview highlighted that Andreas Preuninger, the astute individual overseeing Porsche’s GT and RS models – divisions synonymous with the marque’s most potent and track-focused vehicles – was equally impressed. Preuninger, who initially harbored reservations about an EV from a non-traditional performance brand, experienced a palpable shift in perspective. Moser recounts a moment where he offered Preuninger a ride in the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. Upon activating the “N Grin Boost” feature, which unleashes the car’s full performance potential, Preuninger’s reaction was reportedly one of profound astonishment: “Wow. They did something which was impressive.” This anecdote vividly illustrates the immediate and powerful impact the Ioniq 5 N’s performance enhancements had on a highly discerning engineer.
Moser’s personal enjoyment of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N was evident, but his professional evaluation was even more telling. When probed about whether Porsche had incorporated learnings from the Hyundai, Moser’s response was reportedly a definitive, “This is the way.” This endorsement, however, came with a crucial caveat: the importance of driver choice. He stressed that such simulated performance features should always be optional, allowing drivers to engage or disengage them according to their preferences, rather than being forced into a specific mode. This detail is particularly significant, as it speaks to Porsche’s commitment to maintaining driver engagement and control, even as they explore new technological avenues.
While Porsche remains tight-lipped about the specifics of its upcoming 718 EV, Moser’s candid remarks strongly suggest that the new model will indeed incorporate both a simulated exhaust note and a simulated transmission system. This move would represent a fascinating evolution for a brand that has long championed the visceral, analog experience of driving a combustion-powered sports car. The adoption of such technologies in a Porsche vehicle would further solidify the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N’s status not just as a groundbreaking EV, but as a benchmark setter for the entire industry, particularly for established performance automakers navigating the electric transition.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N represents more than just a high-performance electric SUV; it’s a philosophical statement about the future of driving enjoyment. In an era where EVs are often lauded for their silent efficiency and instant torque, the Ioniq 5 N boldly addresses the intangible aspects of driving that enthusiasts cherish. The simulated gear shifts, managed by an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission that is electronically controlled, aren’t merely a gimmick. They are designed to mimic the feeling of acceleration and deceleration experienced in a traditional performance car, complete with audible cues and tactile feedback. This intricate system allows drivers to select virtual gear ratios, providing a familiar rhythm to spirited driving that can be deeply satisfying, even in an electric powertrain.
Furthermore, the simulated engine sound is not a one-size-fits-all affair. Hyundai has developed an impressive array of audio profiles that can be tailored to evoke the spirit of various iconic internal combustion engines. This allows drivers to personalize their experience, choosing a sound that enhances the feeling of performance and immersion. The N Sound+ system, as it’s known, integrates seamlessly with the driving dynamics, providing an auditory accompaniment that is synchronized with the vehicle’s acceleration, braking, and gear changes. For drivers who miss the aural drama of a roaring engine, this technology offers a compelling alternative, bridging the gap between electric silence and the visceral engagement of traditional sports cars.
The implications of this technological integration are far-reaching. As more automakers pivot towards electrification, they face the challenge of replicating the emotional connection that many drivers have with their combustion-powered vehicles. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N demonstrates a proactive and innovative approach to this challenge. By embracing simulated elements, Hyundai is not only catering to existing enthusiasts but also paving the way for future generations of drivers to experience performance in a way that is both familiar and forward-looking. This focus on delivering a holistic sensory experience is what elevates the Ioniq 5 N beyond mere transportation, positioning it as a true driver’s car.
Beyond the simulated elements, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N boasts an impressive array of performance hardware. Its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system delivers prodigious power, capable of launching the SUV from 0 to 60 mph in under four seconds. The chassis has been extensively retuned for enhanced rigidity and responsiveness, featuring adaptive dampers and an electronic limited-slip differential to optimize grip and handling. The braking system, a critical component for any performance vehicle, has been upgraded with larger rotors and high-performance pads, capable of dissipating the considerable heat generated during aggressive driving.
The underlying philosophy behind the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is one of inclusivity in performance. Hyundai recognized that while electric powertrains offer significant advantages in terms of instant torque and environmental impact, they can sometimes feel disconnected from the driver. By incorporating features that resonate with the legacy of performance driving, they have created a vehicle that appeals to a broader spectrum of enthusiasts. The ability to “drift” the Ioniq 5 N, for instance, using dedicated modes that redistribute power and alter suspension settings, is a testament to Hyundai’s understanding of what makes a performance car truly engaging. This feature, combined with the simulated feedback, creates an experience that is remarkably close to that of a combustion-powered counterpart, albeit with the added benefits of electric propulsion.
The impact of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N’s success is already being felt across the industry. As other manufacturers, including Porsche, explore their own high-performance EV strategies, they are looking to Hyundai’s example for inspiration and validation. The Ioniq 5 N has proven that EVs can be more than just efficient appliances; they can be thrilling, engaging, and deeply satisfying to drive. This paradigm shift is crucial for the continued adoption and appreciation of electric vehicles, especially among those who have traditionally prioritized performance and driving dynamics.
For consumers in the market for a high-performance electric vehicle, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N offers a compelling proposition, blending cutting-edge EV technology with a driver-centric experience that rivals the best in the business. The fact that it has garnered such praise from a legendary performance brand like Porsche only serves to reinforce its credentials. It signifies that the future of performance driving is not about abandoning tradition but about evolving it, integrating new technologies in ways that enhance, rather than diminish, the joy of the drive.
The automotive industry is in a constant state of flux, and the rise of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N as a benchmark for performance EVs is a clear indicator of this evolution. As we look towards 2025 and beyond, the lessons learned from this groundbreaking vehicle will undoubtedly shape the development of future electric sports cars and performance SUVs. Whether you are a seasoned gearhead or a newcomer to the world of electric performance, the Ioniq 5 N presents an undeniable case for the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.
This is more than just a car review; it’s an exploration of innovation and the evolving definition of automotive excellence. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N has not just entered the performance EV arena; it has redefined it, proving that cutting-edge technology and exhilarating driving dynamics can indeed go hand-in-hand.
To truly understand the impact of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, we encourage you to explore its capabilities firsthand. Visit your local Hyundai dealer or research further online to discover the innovations that have impressed even the most discerning automotive engineers.
