Hyundai Ioniq 5 N Named Car and Driver's 2024 EV of the Year

Car and Driver has crowned the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N as the 2024 EV of the Year, marking a remarkable third win for the Ioniq lineup. The Ioniq 5 N stood out in a field of 18 electric vehicles, not only for its performance but also for its ability to make driving an electric car genuinely exciting.

Why the Ioniq 5 N Stood Out

The Ioniq 5 N was chosen for several compelling reasons. First and foremost, it delivers an exhilarating driving experience, which is something that sets it apart in the EV market. With 641 horsepower, the Ioniq 5 N can rocket from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.0 seconds, a feat that rivals many high-performance sports cars. However, what truly distinguishes the Ioniq 5 N is its ability to make driving fun, not just fast. The car’s advanced technology, like its simulated engine sounds and gear shifts, adds a layer of enjoyment typically reserved for gasoline-powered vehicles. This blend of speed, fun, and innovation makes the Ioniq 5 N a standout choice.

In addition to its performance, the Ioniq 5 N impressed judges with its advanced technology. The 800-volt architecture enables quick charging, with the ability to go from 10% to 90% charge in just 35 minutes. The car also offers customizable driving modes that can replicate the sensations of a traditional gas-powered car, making it an EV that appeals to driving enthusiasts as well as those seeking cutting-edge technology.

The Competition

The Ioniq 5 N faced tough competition from 17 other electric vehicles: Acura ZDX, Audi Q8 e-tron, BMW i5 eDrive 40, BMW i5 M60i, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Chevrolet Equinox EV AWD, Chevrolet Equinox EV FWD, Chevrolet Silverado EV, Fiat 500e, Fisker Ocean, Honda Prologue, Hyundai Kona EV, Kia EV9, Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, Polestar 2, Tesla Cybertruck, and Volkswagen ID.4.

While these vehicles all brought unique strengths, the Ioniq 5 N’s combination of thrilling performance, advanced features, and innovative driving experience helped it secure the top spot.

What Makes This Win Significant

This is the third time that a Hyundai Ioniq model has won Car and Driver's EV of the Year, following the Ioniq 5 in 2022 and the Ioniq 6 in 2023. This three-peat highlights Hyundai's leadership in the electric vehicle market and its commitment to creating EVs that are not just practical but also exciting to drive.

The Ioniq 5 N's win is a reminder that electric vehicles can be more than just environmentally friendly—they can also be a blast to drive. With its impressive performance and innovative technology, the Ioniq 5 N sets a new standard for what an EV can be.