True Driver Reviews: Hyundai’s 641-HP IONIQ 5 N Is an EV Built for Drivers

Introduction

If you told me a few years ago that one of the most exciting performance cars I’d drive would be electric — and from Hyundai — I would’ve laughed. But after spending time with the 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 N, I’m officially convinced that the future of performance isn’t quiet… it’s electric.

Hyundai didn’t just build an EV; they built an experience. From the moment I got behind the wheel, the IONIQ 5 N felt alive — and it’s easily one of the most impressive performance SUVs I’ve ever driven.

⚡ Power and Performance

With over 600 horsepower (641 hp with N Grin Boost activated) and instant torque, the IONIQ 5 N delivers a level of acceleration that’s genuinely breathtaking. Launch control pins you back in your seat, sending it from 0–60 mph in just 3.4 seconds — silently.

That silence, though, is part of what makes this car so eerie and exciting. Our brains are used to hearing speed — engine noise, exhaust notes, mechanical revs. But when you go that fast without a single sound, it’s disorienting in the best way possible. It’s raw, instant power that hits before your body can even react.

🏁 Driving Dynamics That Feel Tailor-Made

I drove the white IONIQ 5 N, and visually, it’s aggressive yet sleek — a proper evolution from the standard IONIQ 5. Wider fenders, bold aero bits, and massive brakes give it the stance of a proper performance car.

Speaking of brakes — phenomenal. The stopping power and pedal feel are confidence-inspiring, even after repeated hard runs.

One of the most impressive features is the custom drive mode system. Hyundai lets you build your own driving profile, allowing you to tweak the suspension stiffness, steering weight, power delivery, and even drivetrain configuration — switching between front-wheel, rear-wheel, or all-wheel drive on the fly.

And yes, Hyundai didn’t forget about the sound. With N Active Sound+, the IONIQ 5 N delivers one of the most entertaining “fake exhaust” setups ever created. Between the burbles, pops, and simulated transmission kickback through the paddle shifters, it tricks your brain into believing there’s a turbocharged engine roaring under the hood.

🚘 Design, Comfort, and Everyday Usability

Even as a high-performance EV, the IONIQ 5 N manages to stay practical. The interior is spacious, with supportive sport seats and clever storage. The cupholders, infotainment setup, and digital cockpit all feel premium and thoughtfully designed.

On the road, it’s shockingly refined. The adaptive suspension easily softens up for daily commuting, and in traffic, most people have no idea this is a 600+ horsepower machine sitting next to them. It’s subtle, modern, and perfectly balanced between performance and practicality.

⚠️ Downsides and Trade-Offs

No car is perfect — not even this one.

Range: With around 250 miles of range, it’s on the shorter side, especially if you drive it spiritedly or use N Mode often.
Wireless Charger: The wireless phone charger tray didn’t work as consistently as it should. It’s one of those small but frustrating tech flaws.
Price: Starting around $65,000, it’s not cheap — but for the performance and technology you’re getting, it feels justified.

💭 Final Thoughts

As a lifelong car enthusiast who loves the sound of an engine, shifting gears, and feeling the raw connection between man and machine, I didn’t expect to enjoy an EV this much. But Hyundai changed that.

The IONIQ 5 N isn’t just fast — it’s emotional. It’s engaging. It’s the kind of EV that makes even die-hard gearheads rethink what electric performance can feel like.

Hyundai really did their thing with this one. For around $65K, you’re getting a car that can commute comfortably, dominate canyon runs, and hang with supercars off the line — all while flying under the radar in daily traffic.

The 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 N is proof that performance driving isn’t dying in the electric era — it’s evolving. And Hyundai might just be the one leading the charge.

✍️ About the Author

William Evans III is an automotive content creator and founder of True Driver Reviews — a digital publication where real enthusiasts share real driving experiences. With over 500,000 followers across platforms and collaborations with brands like Toyota, BMW, and Hyundai, Will’s mission is simple: bring authenticity back to car reviews by focusing on what driving actually feels like.

Follow Will on Instagram and TikTok → @wte.3