Hyundai’s Fast EV Era Begins in Malaysia as IONIQ 5 N and 6 N Open for Booking
Hyundai Motor Malaysia has officially stepped into Malaysia’s performance EV scene — and it’s doing it loudly.
Making its first major appearance since its direct market entry, Hyundai used the Penang Autoshow 2026 to open order books for its high-performance N-badged EVs: the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N and the all-new Hyundai IONIQ 6 N.
Estimated pricing starts from RM450,000 for the IONIQ 5 N, while the sleeker IONIQ 6 N is expected to begin from RM460,000, officially bringing Hyundai’s motorsport-inspired EV lineup into Malaysia.
This marks more than just a product launch — it’s Hyundai’s first direct push into Malaysia’s premium performance EV segment.
The IONIQ 5 N: Hyundai’s Electric Hot Hatch Goes Serious
The IONIQ 5 N has already made headlines globally after winning the 2024 World Performance Car award, and it’s easy to see why.
Built around Hyundai’s dedicated E-GMP platform, the performance-focused EV packs a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup producing up to 650 PS with Hyundai’s “N Grin Boost” mode activated. Torque peaks at around 770 Nm, launching the car from 0–100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds.
Top speed? A serious 260 km/h.
Power comes from an 84 kWh battery pack, delivering up to 448 km WLTP range, while Hyundai’s 800V architecture allows 350 kW DC fast charging, pushing the battery from 10% to 80% in around 18 minutes.
But what makes the 5 N stand out isn’t just speed.
Features like N e-Shift simulate gear changes, while N Active Sound+ creates artificial engine sounds to bring back some of the emotional feel missing in traditional EV driving.
It’s an EV built to feel less like an EV.
The IONIQ 6 N Takes It Further
Then there’s the IONIQ 6 N — Hyundai’s sharper, lower, and more aerodynamic performance sedan.
Sharing the same 650 PS powertrain formula, the IONIQ 6 N shaves its sprint time down further, hitting 100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds while stretching range to 487 km WLTP, thanks to its more efficient aerodynamic shape.
Visually, it gets a more aggressive rear profile with a Swan Neck rear spoiler, larger aero enhancements, and track-focused hardware.
Unlike the 5 N’s crossover-like stance, the 6 N feels much closer to a proper electric sports sedan.
And that could make it the more serious driver’s car.
Built-to-Order for Malaysia
Hyundai says both N models will be offered on a built-to-order (BTO) basis in Malaysia, meaning inventory will be limited and buyers will essentially reserve production slots rather than purchase from ready stock.
That approach keeps exclusivity high — and helps Hyundai better manage demand.
Bookings are currently available through selected Hyundai N authorised dealers, including Sime Darby Auto Hyundai, Goh Brothers Motor, and Heng Lian Enterprise.
Each booking also comes with official Hyundai N merchandise worth RM2,000.
Hyundai N Is Finally Here
What makes this launch important is what it represents.
For years, Malaysia’s performance car scene has been dominated by petrol-powered hot hatches, sports sedans, and imported JDM icons.
Now Hyundai is bringing its N division into the EV conversation.
Globally, Hyundai N has built strong credibility through Nürburgring testing, motorsport development, and high-performance engineering.
The IONIQ 5 N proved an electric car can still feel playful.
The IONIQ 6 N looks set to prove it can feel even sharper.
The Bigger Picture
Hyundai’s move into performance EVs comes at a time when Malaysia’s EV market is becoming more competitive, with brands like Tesla, Inc., BYD Auto, and Porsche AG all expanding their presence.
But Hyundai isn’t chasing mass volume here.
It’s targeting enthusiasts.
And for buyers who want an EV that still feels like a proper performance machine — loud in spirit, fast in reality — Hyundai N may have just become one of the most interesting options on the market
