The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N has secured a remarkable victory as the unanimous winner of the prestigious Wheels Car of the Year 2024-25 award. After a week of rigorous testing, the innovative sports hatch impressed all judges with its blend of EV technology and motorsport-inspired performance, setting it apart from competitors like the Toyota Camry Ascent Sport and Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy.
Wheels Editor Andy Enright expresses his admiration for the Ioniq 5 N, highlighting its ability to infuse character and excitement into the electric vehicle realm. He emphasizes the car’s capacity to engage drivers and deliver a thrilling experience, debunking the myth that EVs lack soul or driving pleasure.
Enright commends Hyundai’s N division for creating a groundbreaking vehicle that excels in various aspects. The Ioniq 5 N’s impressive power output, safety features, spacious cabin, and exhilarating driving dynamics make it a standout performer. Its ability to evoke joy and engagement while offering practicality and performance prowess solidified its victory.
Despite its strengths, the Ioniq 5 N is not without flaws. Enright acknowledges that aggressive driving may impact its WLTP range and highlights its substantial weight during spirited maneuvers. Rumors of a more focused variant in the works suggest Hyundai’s commitment to pushing boundaries and gauging consumer interest in high-performance EVs.
During testing at Lang Lang, the Ioniq 5 N demonstrated exceptional handling and performance capabilities, earning praise for its stability and driver engagement. Enright underscores the car’s track-oriented design and the thrill of manual gear shifts, emphasizing the importance of connectivity and enjoyment in modern performance vehicles.
On the road, the Ioniq 5 N shines with its balanced ride quality, practical cargo space, and innovative features like V2L connectivity. Enright notes the car’s ability to cater to family needs while delivering an exhilarating driving experience, making it a versatile and compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking a blend of performance and functionality.
The victory of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N marks a significant moment in the history of Wheels Car of the Year awards, with the sports hatch standing out as a beacon of excellence and innovation. Enright’s reflections on the car’s impact underscore its potential to inspire a new era of electric performance vehicles, reflecting a bright future for driving enthusiasts amidst evolving automotive trends.
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