Hyundai Ioniq 5 N wins Wheels Car of the Year

Harry MurtoughDecember 16, 2024, 8:51 amDecember 16, 2024

The Hyundai IONIQ 5 N, an all-electric sports hatch, has been named unanimous Wheels Car of the Year (COTY) 2024-25.

The IONIQ 5 N impressed a panel of experts during rigorous track and road testing, outshining 24 other contenders.

This marks a significant milestone for Hyundai, with the IONIQ 5 N being recognised as a standout vehicle in the longest-running annual car award globally, now in its 61st year.

Judges Praise a Revolutionary EV

The IONIQ 5 N triumphed over the Toyota Camry Ascent Sport and Hyundai’s own Santa Fe Calligraphy, which finished second and third, respectively.

Wheels Editor Andy Enright praised the innovative blend of EV performance with motorsport-inspired handling.
“Imagine blending the performance and response of an EV with the involvement and fun factor of a combustion-engined sports car,” said Enright. “The Hyundai IONIQ 5 N has managed to achieve exactly that. It’s a landmark achievement.”

Hyundai Motor Company Australia’s Chief Executive Officer, Ted Lee, expressed pride in the recognition.
“This is a wonderful recognition that is very heartily received, and will be cherished on a global scale,” said Lee.

“A Wheels Car of the Year win will be celebrated by our designers, engineers, and planners in South Korea, Europe, and the United States, all of whom have poured many long hours into the creation and development of this car. We could not be prouder.”

Celebrating Excellence with Smart

This year’s COTY award also welcomed a new Official Partner: Smart, one of Australia’s leading leasing providers.
“From the exhilarating Hyundai IONIQ 5 N to practical and reliable options like the Toyota Camry, novated leasing offers Australians an affordable and flexible way to drive the best cars on the market,” said Bianca Bates, Chief Customer Officer at Smart.

Smart’s partnership highlighted the growing accessibility of innovative vehicles like the IONIQ 5 N through novated leasing, making it easier for Australians to experience the best in automotive technology.

A Competitive Field of Contenders

The Hyundai IONIQ 5 N was selected from a competitive field of 25 vehicles, rigorously tested by Wheels Editor Andy Enright and five former Wheels editors. Other standout finalists included the BYD Sealion 6, Ford Mustang Dark Horse, Mazda CX-90 D50e GT, and Polestar 3 AWD Long Range.

The Hyundai IONIQ 5 N’s combination of innovative EV technology, exhilarating performance, and striking design has cemented its position as a leader in the automotive industry.