Hyundai to Roll Out IONIQ 5 N Simulated Shifts and Engine Sounds Across EV Lineup

Hyundai is officially bringing the “soul” of internal combustion to its broader electric vehicle (EV) range. After the critical success of the IONIQ 5 N, the South Korean automaker has confirmed that its acclaimed simulated gearshift and artificial engine sound technology will no longer be exclusive to the N performance sub-brand. According to a report from CarSales, Hyundai’s vice president of product for Europe, Raf van Nuffel, confirmed that this technology will be available when there’s sufficient power, but it won’t be offered in base variants.

Expanding the “N” Experience to IONIQ 9 and Beyond

The technology—which includes N e-Shift (simulated dual-clutch transmission) and N Active Sound+—was recently integrated into the all-new IONIQ 9 large SUV. While the IONIQ 9 isn’t a dedicated performance model, its inclusion serves as a litmus test for how mainstream buyers respond to digital mechanical feedback.

Key Takeaways of the Rollout:

• Wider Availability: The tech is migrating from the IONIQ 5 N and IONIQ 6 N to mid- and high-output non-N models.
• Power Requirements: Base models (like the entry-level Inster) will be excluded. Executives state a “minimum level of power” is required to make the “clutch-type feeling” authentic.
• Driver Control: The systems remain entirely optional, allowing drivers to toggle them on or off at the touch of a button.

Why Hyundai is “Democratizing” Synthetic Shifting

For many enthusiasts, the transition to electric power has come at the cost of mechanical character. Hyundai’s vice president of product for Europe, Raf van Nuffel, explained that the goal is to provide a “proper experience” that involves more than just noise.

“It is not something that we limit to N, but we have certain requirements—we do need a minimum level of power to have this clutch-type feeling. We are not going to offer it across the range, but definitely [there is] more to come without always having to go for 600 horsepower.”

By simulating powerbands and “boost” sensations, Hyundai aims to inject personality into cars that otherwise lack traditional mechanical interaction.

The Future: IONIQ 3 and the Performance Mid-Range

While the upcoming IONIQ 3 base model likely won’t feature the tech, N Line variants and the rumored IONIQ 3 N are prime candidates. Industry experts suggest that in models with lower total output, these simulated layers of engagement can actually compensate for lower horsepower by making the driving experience feel more active and involving.

Which Models Feature the Tech?

Model	Variant	Status
IONIQ 5 N	All	Available Now
IONIQ 6 N	All	Available Now
IONIQ 9	High-Output	Integrated
IONIQ 3 N Line	Mid-Output	Confirmed
IONIQ 3 N (not confirmed)	High-Output	Expected

A Growing Industry Trend

Hyundai isn’t alone in this pursuit, but their execution has been widely praised as one of the most convincing to date. By mimicking the shift points and “blipped” downshifts of a petrol-powered engine, Hyundai is bridging the gap between the digital future and the analog past.

As the brand prepares for its next generation of EVs, this technology will likely become a cornerstone of the Hyundai “driving DNA,” proving that an electric future doesn’t have to be a silent one.