Hyundai Ioniq 5 N EV Gets Drift Mode and Other Upgrades for 2025 Model Year

Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 N has quickly cemented itself as a standout electric crossover, and now, for the 2025 model year, it’s getting a series of exciting new upgrades. While the exterior design remains largely untouched, Hyundai has focused on elevating the driving experience by enhancing its software features, making this performance EV even more engaging on the road and the track.

Drift Mode Perfected to Take Control of the Tail-Happy Fun

One of the most notable features of the 2025 Ioniq 5 N is the N Drift Optimizer. Drivers who crave adrenaline-fueled sideways action will appreciate that this feature now offers 10 customizable levels of assistance. Whether you’re looking to lightly nudge the rear end or let loose in full Pro Mode, the Ioniq 5 N minimizes stability control intervention to let you drift more freely. Of course, Hyundai emphasizes that these capabilities are designed for the track, where enthusiasts can fully explore the vehicle’s drifting prowess.

Hyundai has also introduced the Downshift Memory feature, designed for those who love to push their cars on the racetrack. This system remembers downshift commands, allowing the vehicle to shift gears at the precise moment the engine reaches optimal revs. It’s a feature that’s not new to Hyundai’s performance lineup, with a similar system appearing on the Kona N, but its inclusion in the Ioniq 5 N further strengthens this EV’s racing credentials.

Bringing Sound to Silence with N Active Sound+

Although electric vehicles are known for their quietness, the 2025 Ioniq 5 N offers a different experience with N Active Sound+. When using launch control, the system simulates the sound of a turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine, reminiscent of the Elantra N. This feature is sure to appeal to drivers who miss the growl of traditional performance engines but want the benefits of an electric powertrain.

Smart Features From High-Tech Safety to V2L Capabilities

The 2025 Ioniq 5 N isn’t just about performance; it also introduces several thoughtful tech upgrades. New automatic high beams with glare-free functionality improve night driving safety, while the Walk-Away Lock system ensures the car is securely locked once the driver walks a certain distance away.

In a nod to practicality, Hyundai has added Vehicle to Load (V2L) capability, allowing the Ioniq 5 N to act as a power source for external devices, tapping into the battery’s stored energy. Whether you’re camping or need to charge gadgets on the go, this feature adds a layer of versatility to the EV’s appeal.

Rounding out the list of 2025 updates are safety and comfort features designed to make driving easier and more intuitive. The second-row safety windows ensure a safer ride for passengers, while the steering wheel’s new haptic warning system gently vibrates to alert the driver to potential hazards, offering an extra layer of safety in everyday driving situations.

Pricing and What’s Next

In South Korea, the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N comes with a starting price of around $57,600 after factoring in local incentives. With its performance enhancements and tech-savvy features, the Ioniq 5 N continues to push the boundaries of what an electric crossover can be.

Looking ahead, Hyundai is already working on expanding its performance N lineup with the highly anticipated Ioniq 6 N sedan. This future model is sure to deliver even more thrills for fans of the brand’s high-performance EVs.

With its new features, the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N proves that electric performance cars can offer just as much excitement and versatility as their gasoline-powered counterparts. Whether you’re drifting on a racetrack or simply enjoying the tech-savvy features during your daily commute, the Ioniq 5 N is a glimpse into the thrilling future of electric driving.