Leatherhead, October 11th 2024 – Hyundai’s trailblazing IONIQ 5 N has once again taken centre stage, being crowned Hot Hatch of the Year at the 2024 News UK Motor Awards by The Sunday Times. This latest accolade solidifies its place as a leader in the electric performance car market, where it has consistently outpaced its rivals through a potent combination of thrilling power and cutting-edge technology.
This honour comes as part of a string of major victories for the IONIQ 5 N, which has already earned awards including Best EV Hot Hatch at the TopGear.com Electric Awards and World Performance Car at the World Car Awards. Hyundai’s high-performance electric hatchback has proven to be a fierce competitor in both conventional and electric vehicle (EV) segments, leaving even premium brands trailing in its wake.
A New Benchmark in EV Performance
Ashley Andrew, President of Hyundai & Genesis UK, expressed his pride in this new recognition, stating: “We are incredibly proud that the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N has been recognised as The Sunday Times Hot Hatch of the Year. This accolade reaffirms Hyundai’s leadership in electric vehicle innovation and performance. The IONIQ 5 N exemplifies our commitment to delivering thrilling driving experiences, while also demonstrating that electric performance cars can challenge and surpass some of the industry’s most expensive rivals.”
It’s this blend of accessible yet awe-inspiring performance that has earned the IONIQ 5 N the attention of enthusiasts and critics alike. Will Dron, editor of Driving.co.uk, described it as more than just a fast electric hatchback: “There have been fast EVs, and fast electric hatchbacks, but the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N is the first that I believe deserves to win our hot hatch of the year title. It’s blistering quick, yes, but a true hot hatch has to be more than that. It has to be a car that can be used every day, for school runs, shopping trips, family holidays and to take rubbish to the local tip. The IONIQ 5 N is a car that can do all that, and yet on a track it’s an absolute blooming riot.”
A Performance Icon with Everyday Versatility
At the heart of the IONIQ 5 N is Hyundai’s advanced E-GMP platform, which underpins its dynamic prowess. Powered by an electric motor that delivers up to 650 PS with the N Grin Boost feature, the IONIQ 5 N rockets from 0 to 62mph in a blistering 3.4 seconds and can reach a top speed of 161mph on the track. Yet, its impressive straight-line speed is only part of the story. The IONIQ 5 N excels in driver engagement, thanks to innovations such as the N e-Shift system, which simulates the tactile feel of an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox, and N Active Sound+, which recreates the evocative soundtrack of traditional combustion engines.
This combination of high-tech performance and old-school driving thrills has won praise from motoring experts, who have lauded the IONIQ 5 N for its dynamic handling and immersive driving experience. “Dynamically, it’s beautifully sorted,” said Dron. “N e-Shift, which I had expected to be a gimmick, proved to be a sensation, really heightening driver engagement. This is the only car any driving enthusiast will ever need.”
Pushing the Boundaries of Electric Mobility
Beyond its track-ready capabilities, the IONIQ 5 N remains a practical daily driver. Its spacious interior, versatile layout, and cutting-edge safety features make it ideal for family outings and errands. Hyundai’s ability to balance raw performance with practicality continues to define its place in the growing world of high-performance electric vehicles.
Available to order from £65,000, the IONIQ 5 N redefines the electric hot hatch genre and positions Hyundai as a force to be reckoned with in the EV market. As the automotive world accelerates toward a sustainable future, Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 N is a shining example of how performance and innovation can coexist.
For more information on the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N, visit www.hyundai.co.uk.
