The Hyundai IONIQ 5 is the biggest break in the history of electric cars, and here in Gran Turismo 7, I got the chance to sample the first-ever all-electric N car from the rapidly growing South Korean motoring titan.
First and foremost, what is the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N?
Unveiled in 2023, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N is the high-performance version of the award-winning IONIQ 5 all-electric crossover and the first all-electric N car ever made.
The IONIQ 5 N features an 84 kWh lithium-ion battery and dual electric motors, delivering 609 PS and 740 Nm of torque. With the N Grin Boost, it can reach up to 650 PS for ten seconds. It boasts a 0-100 km/h time of 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 260 km/h. Recognized with the 2024 World Performance Car award and Top Gear's 2023 Car of the Year, the IONIQ 5 N also set a new record at Pikes Peak with a time of 9 minutes and 30.852 seconds in its class, showcasing its impressive performance and design.
In Gran Turismo 7, use the IONIQ 5 N's N Grin Boost by pressing and holding the right analog stick, great for overtaking. While the boost enhances acceleration, the handling can be challenging, especially on Sports Hard tires, with tense and fierce braking. I’ve experienced it myself.
I visited Fuji Speedway to demonstrate the IONIQ 5 N's capabilities, reminiscent of when IONIQ 5 N cars raced against other electrics at this track. Let's roll the tape.
As I said, the handling is challenging indeed, and the braking is fierce and tense, but I managed to lap around the track in 1m57.216s. In my standards, that breaches GR Supra territory. All thanks to the IONIQ 5 N's N Grin Boost feature that surely comes in handy in the straights. A real 10-second car with a ten-second overboost to hit.
The IONIQ 5 N proved to the world that even electric cars can break common sense in the pursuit of happiness behind the wheel. A real everyday racer for the everyday driver. Well done, Hyundai.
NEVER JUST DRIVE.
