Hyundai challenges the stereotype that all-electric cars are dull, as demonstrated by the Ioniq 5 N. Despite its hefty build and the absence of an internal combustion engine, Hyundai asserts that the Ioniq 5 N is genuinely thrilling. Branded as a “corner rascal,” this electric model proved its mettle on the famed Nürburgring, completing a lap in 7 minutes and 45.59 seconds with Sport Auto’s test driver Christian Gebhardt at the helm. This lap time, a mere 2.6 seconds behind the BMW M2 CS driven by the same driver, showcases the Ioniq 5 N’s performance credentials.
Christian Gebhardt, who had previously steered the BMW M2 CS to a lap time of 7 minutes and 42.99 seconds in 2020, found the Ioniq 5 N’s capabilities commendable. The comparison, though acknowledging the BMW’s superior driving experience, underscores Hyundai’s earnest attempt to inject excitement into electric driving. Notably, the Ioniq 5 N achieved speeds of up to 163 mph (262 km/h) on straight segments, a testament to its prowess.
While the BMW M2 CS remains the epitome of a driver’s car, the Ioniq 5 N’s commendable performance and top speed highlight its commitment to making electric vehicles not only environmentally friendly but also genuinely fast and enjoyable to drive. The fact that it competes, even if not quite on par, with a traditional sports coupe is noteworthy.
Looking into the future, Hyundai may be gearing up for the Ioniq 6 N, which is rumored to be a sedan counterpart with enhanced power. The RN22e concept serves as a potential preview of this upcoming electric sedan, which is anticipated to boast even sharper performance due to its lower center of gravity. In the broader automotive landscape, BMW is also venturing into high-performance electric vehicles, with an electric M car resembling the M3 sedan and an X3-like counterpart slated for the latter half of the decade.
In summary, Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 N challenges preconceptions about electric cars, showcasing that they can be both exciting and fast. The comparison with the BMW M2 CS acknowledges the latter’s superiority but emphasizes the Ioniq 5 N’s genuine effort to make electric driving a thrilling experience. Looking forward, Hyundai’s potential Ioniq 6 N sedan and BMW’s electric M cars promise to elevate the landscape of high-performance electric vehicles further in the coming years.