HYUNDAI Motor Company’s IONIQ 5 N, the first electric vehicle (EV) to carry the N badge, has been awarded the title of ‘Performance Car of the Year’ for 2025 at the prestigious China Car of the Year (COTY) Awards. This recognition marks a significant milestone for Hyundai, as it is the brand’s first win in this category in China, outshining both local and global competitors.
The China COTY Awards, established in 2012, are renowned for their impartiality and thorough evaluation process, conducted by a panel of 48 automotive journalists and key opinion leaders from across China. The awards encompass seven categories, including the overall ‘Car of the Year’ and six others based on specific vehicle types. The IONIQ 5 N was initially recognized as a Top 10 Finalist in early November before advancing to the Top 3 on November 22, competing against notable brands such as Lynk & Co and Mercedes-Benz. The rigorous judging process involved test drives of 112 models, with the IONIQ 5 N receiving high scores for its exceptional performance and innovative features.
Yong Il Yin, Vice President and Head of China N Brand Business Group, stated, “Hyundai N made its debut in the Chinese market last year and has actively showcased the company’s high-performance electrification technology through the launch of IONIQ 5 N this year. Moving forward, we will continue to expand the unique and exciting experiences offered by the Hyundai N brand to strengthen our position in the Chinese market.”
Hyundai is committed to bolstering its presence in China by focusing on both EVs and its high-performance N brand. The N brand was launched at the 2023 Shanghai International Motor Show and plays a crucial role in Hyundai’s strategy within the world’s largest automotive market. Through track day events and other initiatives, Hyundai aims to enhance customer experiences with models like the Elantra N and IONIQ 5 N.
Introduced in July 2023, the IONIQ 5 N represents a new segment of driver-focused high-performance EVs. It combines Hyundai’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) with motorsport-inspired technologies, showcasing a commitment to electrification. The vehicle has garnered widespread acclaim as ‘groundbreaking’ and a ‘benchmark’ for high-performance EVs.
The IONIQ 5 N has received numerous accolades throughout its short history, including being named ‘World Performance Car’ at the 2024 World Car Awards and earning recognition in Wards’ 10 Best Engines & Propulsion Systems. It was also named ‘2024 Performance EV of the Year’ by Road & Track and won Top Gear’s ‘2023 Car of the Year Award’ as well as Car Magazine’s ‘World’s Best Electric Performance Car. ’These achievements highlight the IONIQ 5 N’s significant impact on reshaping the EV market and underscore Hyundai’s dedication to innovation and performance in electric mobility.
