KLIMS 2026: 650PS Hyundai Ioniq 5N, Ioniq 6N performance BEV duo make Malaysian debut, from RM443k to RM449k

After years of limited allocations and brief appearances that left enthusiasts wanting more, Hyundai Motor Malaysia has officially launched the all-electric Ioniq 5N and Ioniq 6N at the 2026 Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS), giving buyers not one but two flavours of Hyundai’s electrified performance portfolio.

Starting with the numbers that matter, the Ioniq 5N is priced at RM443,888 on-the-road without insurance, while the newer Ioniq 6N commands a modest premium at RM449,888. Both are offered on an indent basis, meaning they’ll be built to order for customers in the fashion of a true bespoke performance car.

Of course, those price tags aren’t exactly chump change. Early estimates had suggested that the Ioniq 5N could land in Malaysia at around RM390,000 under the previous tax structure. Unfortunately since then, fully imported EVs from South Korea have become subject to Malaysia’s standard import and excise duties, significantly altering the equation.

Besides, Hyundai would argue that these N models are about far more than acceleration figures. Both the Ioniq 5N and Ioniq 6N are powered by a dual-motor setup producing 226 PS at the front and 383 PS at the rear. Combined output for both stands at 609 PS and 740 Nm of torque, although activating certain wonderfully over-the-top N modes temporarily raises those figures to 650 PS and 750 Nm. Supposedly, it’s a grin-inducing machine, given the N Grin mode name.

Engage N Launch Control and the Ioniq 5N will warp from 0-100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds before reaching a top speed of 260 km/h. The more aerodynamic and slightly lighter Ioniq 6N shaves another two-tenths off the sprint time, hitting 100 km/h in only 3.2 seconds. Interestingly, despite its slipperier shape, its top speed is quoted to be marginally lower at 257 km/h.

Both cars are packed with performance-focused software designed to give drivers greater control and involvement, not just straight line speed. An 11-stage N Torque Distribution system allows power delivery between the front and rear axles to be fine-tuned according to driving conditions and driver preference.

Meanwhile, N Race mode offers Sprint and Endurance settings. Sprint prioritises maximum performance and aggressive cooling for short, intense track sessions, while Endurance optimises energy usage to sustain performance over longer stints. Complementing this is N Battery Preconditioning, which prepares the battery for either drag racing or circuit work to ensure optimal operating temperatures.

Of all the N technologies, however, none has generated more discussion than N e-Shift and N Active Sound+, a series of systems that seek to recreate the sensations of a traditional petrol-powered performance car. N e-Shift simulates the gear changes of an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, complete with shift interruptions and torque delivery characteristics. Meanwhile, N Active Sound+ enhances the experience further, pumping synthesised engine sounds through both the cabin speakers and external speakers. Since their introduction here, they’ve definitely inspired other automakers to put their own spin on it.

Naturally, drivers can choose from several sound profiles, ranging from a soundtrack inspired by the i30 N’s turbocharged four-cylinder engine to more futuristic alternatives. In the Ioniq 6N, the system has evolved further with revised sound signatures and shorter virtual gear ratios designed to heighten driver engagement.

Importantly, Hyundai has expanded the availability of N e-Shift across all driving modes, meaning even Eco mode can now deliver simulated gear changes….if that’s your thing.

Handling has received just as much attention as outright speed, arguably even more so. The N Drift Optimiser now allows drivers to customise drift characteristics by adjusting factors such as initiation response, drift angle and allowable wheelspin levels for extra theatre. Meanwhile, N Pedal uses regenerative braking to mimic the effects of left-foot braking, helping transfer weight towards the front axle and reducing understeer during spirited driving.

Supporting all of this technology are extensive chassis upgrades. Compared to their standard counterparts, both N models benefit from additional structural reinforcement through increased spot welding and extra adhesive bonding, hence the build-to-order nature of their acquisition.

The Ioniq 5N receives strengthened suspension mounting points and wheelhouse reinforcements to sharpen steering response, while the Ioniq 6N gains additional bracing around the rear structure and underbody, resulting in a substantial increase in torsional rigidity, with Hyundai claiming improvements of up nearly 20% for the Ioniq 6N. Both models also feature unique suspension tuning, electronically controlled limited-slip differentials and upgraded braking systems featuring massive 400 mm front brake discs.

Their 84 kWh battery packs provide pretty respectable WLTP-rated driving ranges of up to 448 km in the Ioniq 5 N and 487 km in the Ioniq 6 N, especially given how much go-fast tech they pack in. The latest-generation battery technology also supports faster charging, enabling a 10-80% DC fast charge in as little as 18 minutes.

Visually, Hyundai hasn’t been shy about differentiating its flagship N models from the standard cars. Wider body panels accommodate larger forged alloy wheels wrapped in specially developed Pirelli P Zero Elect tyres. The Ioniq 5N, owing to its crossover height, rides on 21-inch wheels, while the Ioniq 6N uses 20-inch items. Aggressive front and rear bumper designs, red accents and various aerodynamic enhancements further emphasise their intent.

The Ioniq 6 N, based on the facelifted model, adds an especially dramatic swan-neck rear wing that leaves little doubt about its performance ambitions. Inside, both models receive N-specific steering wheels featuring dedicated performance buttons, leather and Alcantara bucket seats with illuminated N logos, and aluminium pedals inspired by chequered flags.

Technology upgrades include Hyundai’s latest connected car Navigation Cockpit system, displayed across twin 12.3-inch screens. Crucially, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto finally make their appearance.

The Ioniq 5N adds practical touches such as a reinforced centre console with knee pads for improved support during hard cornering. The Ioniq 6N counters with a redesigned centre console, additional storage solutions, an integrated roof-mounted action camera bracket, and a Track Manager system complete with lap timing and performance analysis functions.

Safety remains comprehensive, with both models equipped with Hyundai’s latest suite of driver assistance technologies. Features include autonomous emergency braking with junction assist, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, lane centring assist, automatic lane change assistance, blind spot collision avoidance, rear cross-traffic alert with braking intervention and adaptive high beam assist.

For early adopters, Hyundai is sweetening the deal with a launch package that includes either a complimentary AC wallbox charger or RM1,800 worth of JomCharge credits, N merchandise valued at up to RM2,000, and financing rates from as low as 1.97% per annum. Buyers will also enjoy an 8-year or 160,000 km warranty covering not just the battery pack, but the entire vehicle.

As a market filled with enthusiasts, Malaysia has waited a long time for Hyundai N to establish a proper foothold. Judging by the technology, engineering and sheer sense of occasion offered by the Ioniq 5 N and Ioniq 6 N, it seems the wait may finally have been worth it. But to prospective buyers, are they work almost RM450k? Time will tell.