Hyundai IONIQ 5 N Hot Hatch Named 'Car of the Year'

The groundbreaking Hyundai IONIQ 5 N hot hatch has been named Car of the Year at the 2023 TopGear.com Awards. It's the brand's first electrified N model.

The Hyundai IONIQ 5 N has 'charged' into the automotive scene, earning the prestigious title of Car of the Year at the 2023 TopGear.com Awards.

This electric hot hatch has stormed ahead since being unveiled, winning hearts since its debut at July's Goodwood Festival of Speed.

It has been hailed as a thrilling option for driving enthusiasts seeking electrifying experiences on both road and track. Beyond its sheer performance, it represents the pioneering blueprint for Hyundai N division's electrified future.

Crafted on the Electrified-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the IONIQ 5 N, an evolution from the acclaimed 2022 World Car of the Year, merges cutting-edge N division motorsport technologies with the E-GMP, elevating the joy of driving to unprecedented heights.

TopGear's expert panel of judges recognised its unwavering commitment to delivering unparalleled excitement, earning it the top spot for the past 12 months.

Paul Horrell, TopGear writer and Car of the Year Juror praised Hyundai's engineers for transforming the IONIQ 5 N into a truly exhilarating ride that challenges perceptions of electric vehicles.

He highlighted the extensive use of an EV's digital capabilities to provide an expansive range of adjustable parameters, resulting in an experience that surpasses expectations. Its prowess on the road and track defies the norms, offering immense fun without qualifiers, and setting a new standard for electric cars.

This triumph marks Hyundai N's second Top Gear Car of the Year accolade in three years, following the i20 N's win in 2021.

The IONIQ 5 N's technical prowess captivated judges with advancements in its powertrain, offering enhanced performance in battery cooling and braking.

With electric motors capable of spinning up to 21,000 RPM, it delivers up to 609 PS under normal conditions and a staggering 650 PS with the N Grin Boost engaged, enabling acceleration in just 3.4 seconds for a 0-62mph sprint and reaching a top speed of 161mph on tracks.

This electric powerhouse guarantees an unforgettable drive, featuring upgrades like a reinforced steering column for heightened feedback, electronically controlled suspension adjusting stiffness based on drive mode, and sophisticated electronic control technology within the E-GMP platform.

Notable features include N Pedal, providing instant turn-in and enhanced throttle sensitivity for thrilling cornering, and fully variable front and rear N Torque Distribution.

Elevating emotional engagement in performance EVs, the IONIQ 5 N introduces N e-shift, simulating the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission found in internal combustion engine N cars, complemented by N Active Sound+ for an immersive sound experience.

President of Hyundai and Genesis UK, Ashley Andrew had this to say about the IONIQ 5 N: 

"The IONIQ 5 N is a game changer that really does demonstrate Hyundai’s technological leadership, and it is truly gratifying that its excellence has been recognised by the experts at TopGear."

"By combining magnificent performance with precision handling and genuine emotional engagement, the IONIQ 5 N takes electric cars into exciting new territory, and yet it works as an efficient family SUV, too"