by Presentation of the More Affordable Hyundai Ioniq 5 N Version
Hyundai introduced a new Ioniq 5 N trim on its home market in Korea, making the model somewhat more affordable for buyers. Despite its name, the Ioniq 5 N Essential does not have the sacrifices typically expected from a base version, retaining full performance and most of the standard technological features.
Exterior and Interior
The Essential model looks identical to the regular N, having the same body kit, fully LED lighting, and 21-inch forged alloy wheels. The same applies to the cabin, which is equipped with two 12.3-inch displays, sport seats, a leather steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, and a premium Bose audio system with eight speakers as standard.
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The difference is that the Essential version lacks a head-up display, wireless charging, and a V2L connector. Less noticeable missing options include a digital key, rear window safety electric packages, and an intelligent front lighting system. Furthermore, the standard ADAS complex has lost several advanced features, although it remains quite comprehensive.
Technical Specifications
Unsurprisingly, the technical foundation of the Ioniq 5 N remained unchanged. Two electric motors together produce 601 hp, and a limited-slip differential is installed on the rear axle, while the battery capacity is 84 kWh. Additionally, the performance electric vehicle retains all the features that make it special, such as N e-Shift, N Launch Control, N Pedal, N Drift Optimizer Pro, N Torque Distribution, and N Active Sound +.
Pricing Policy and Options
What is the price of the most affordable electric N version? Considering local incentives, the Ioniq 5 N Essential in Korea costs ₩74,900,000, compared to ₩77,400,000 for the regular trim. In other words, buyers save ₩2,500,000, getting the same look and performance. For comparison, the only available trim of the model in the US market currently starts from $66,200.
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Hyundai also updated the optional Comfort Plus package costing ₩590,000, which adds heated rear seats, rear window sunshades, and a power-folding rear seat. The Essential can also be equipped with Parking Assist Lite for an additional ₩900,000, although it lacks the remote parking function. Among other options are a body protective film for ₩380,000, an Alcantara interior for ₩550,000, and a Walk-in Interior package for ₩300,000.
Future Plans
The Korean brand’s N lineup is expected to expand in the future with both electric and internal combustion engine models. Following the recent debut of the Ioniq 6 N sedan, Hyundai has almost confirmed the arrival of a smaller Ioniq 3 N hatchback and a new generation i20 N with a hybrid powertrain.
The appearance of the Essential version demonstrates Hyundai’s strategy for product differentiation in various markets. By offering a model with retained key performance but a reduced set of options at a lower price, the manufacturer is trying to attract new categories of buyers for whom high-tech features may not be a priority. This approach could prove effective in markets where price affordability plays a decisive role, even for performance models.
