The Hyundai IONIQ 5 N Crash has been named TopGear.com’s Car of the Year

The IONIQ 5 N’s achievement marks the second time in three years that a Hyundai N car has won the Gear Car of the Year, following the i20 N in 2021.

“To be named TopGear’s Car of the Year 2023 is a testament to Hyundai N’s passion for innovation and commitment to our customers,” said Till Wartenberg, Vice President and Head of N Brand and Motorsport at Hyundai Motor Company. “The IONIQ 5 N pushes the boundaries of technology, performance, and electrification, providing not only exciting events on and off the field but also an emotional all-electric driving experience. We are grateful for this honor and remain steadfast in our commitment to providing high performance for everyone.

Among the IONIQ 5 N’s array of key technical advances that won over the judges is a powertrain that delivers greater power and enhanced performance in battery cooling and braking. The electric motors of the IONIQ 5 N spin up to 21,000 RPM, producing up to 609 PS in normal mode, or 650 PS when the N Grin Boost (NGB) vehicle feature is active, with an acceleration of up to 10 seconds; 0-62mph can be achieved in 3.4 seconds, while a top speed of 161mph is available on the tracks.

The memorable drive is guaranteed by many improvements, including a reinforced steering column for improved feedback, Electronically Controlled Suspension that adjusts the stiffness of the suspension according to driving conditions, and a range of modern electronic control technology in the E platform – GMP. Highlights include the N Pedal, an intelligent programming function that provides instant entry and enhanced throttle sensitivity for thrilling cornering, and the fully variable N Torque Transmission front and rear.

The IONIQ 5 N also sets a new benchmark in terms of emotional engagement for a performance EV, thanks to the N e-shift, which simulates the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission of the N cars’ internal combustion engines, and the N Active Sound+, which provides an impressive sound that highlights the power of the EV.

The TopGear.com award is the latest recognition for Hyundai’s impressive product range, which has received a string of accolades over the past year. In April, the Hyundai IONIQ 6 was crowned World Car of the Year, World Electric Car and World Car Design, matching the performance of the Hyundai IONIQ 5 in 2022.

The IONIQ 6 was also named Saloon of the Year by GQ and Best Company Car by Autocar, while Auto Express took the title of TUCSON Best Mid-size SUV and New i10 Best City Car. The SANTA FE was awarded Seven Seats of the Year by WhatCar?, while the All-New KONA and i20 N won the Carbuyer awards, scooping Best Small Family Car and Best Hatch respectively.