2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 5 N Land in Australia

Hyundai brings refreshed Ioniq 5 line-up to Australia for 2026

Hyundai Motor Company Australia has expanded its EV portfolio with the arrival of the 2026 Ioniq 5 and the high-performance Ioniq 5 N. The update focuses less on wholesale redesign and more on simplification, desirable tech and a sharper performance halo — giving buyers a clearer choice between efficient electric hatchbacks and track-capable EVs.

Quick overview

• Prices range from approximately AUD 76,200 (about USD 50k) for the base Ioniq 5 to AUD 115,000 (around USD 76k) for the Ioniq 5 N.
• The family now contains four key models: base Ioniq 5, Ioniq 5 Elite, Ioniq 5 N Line Premium and the flagship Ioniq 5 N.
• All variants use an 84-kWh battery pack; power and drivetrain vary by trim.

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What’s new for 2026

Rather than major styling changes, Hyundai has streamlined the model range. The 2026 Ioniq 5 trims have been reduced from 14 to three, while the Ioniq 5 N is offered in a single, better-specified grade that includes a Vision Roof. Across the range the Digital Key 2.0 smartphone entry and start system — part of Bluelink Connected Car Services — is now standard, enabling owners to lock, unlock and start the car using NFC or UWB on a phone or smartwatch.

The 2026 Ioniq 5 N also inherits the updates introduced on the 2025 model: Intelligent Front Lighting System (IFS), auto up/down for all windows, a haptic-feedback steering wheel, and refreshed N Drift Optimiser Pro and N Active Sound systems to enrich the driving experience.

Performance and specifications

The four trims cover a broad performance spectrum:

• Ioniq 5 (base): 168 kW (225 hp), RWD, from AUD 76,200 (~USD 50k). Range between 495–570 km depending on configuration.
• Ioniq 5 Elite: more equipment, from AUD 81,200 (~USD 53k).
• Ioniq 5 N Line Premium: 239 kW (321 hp), AWD, from AUD 91,700 (~USD 60k).
• Ioniq 5 N: 448 kW (601 hp), AWD, from AUD 115,000 (~USD 76k), WLTP-equivalent range around 448 km.

Both the N Line Premium and the Ioniq 5 N adopt all-wheel drive for improved traction and performance. With the 84-kWh battery as standard across the range, Hyundai balances everyday usability and impressive performance figures in the N model.

How it compares to the Ioniq 6 N

Hyundai recently showcased the Ioniq 6 N at Goodwood, a sedan tuned for high-speed stability and cornering precision with 478 kW (641 hp). The Ioniq 5 N brings similar N-brand performance DNA to a hatchback package — offering a more practical EV for buyers who want track-capable performance without stepping up to the sedan.

Design, tech and user convenience

Exterior and interior changes are subtle, but the simplification of trims makes choices easier. Highlights include the Vision Roof on the Ioniq 5 N, upgraded lighting and the expanded use of Bluelink telematics. The Digital Key 2.0 is notable for everyday convenience and fleet use alike, turning a phone or smartwatch into the primary key via NFC or UWB.

Quote: 'Hyundai's 2026 Ioniq 5 refresh prioritises clarity and driver-focused upgrades — delivering performance where it counts and practical EV features for daily life.'

Who should consider each model?

• Daily commuters and families: base Ioniq 5 or Elite for range, interior space and value.
• Enthusiasts: Ioniq 5 N Line Premium for sporty performance without the full N commitment.
• Performance buyers: Ioniq 5 N for extreme power and N-specific dynamics.

Final thoughts

By trimming the lineup and packing the essentials — an 84-kWh battery, improved lighting, haptic steering and Digital Key 2.0 — Hyundai has made the Ioniq 5 range easier to understand and more competitive. The Ioniq 5 N stands out as a compelling performance EV in the hatchback segment, while the standard Ioniq 5 models remain strong choices for buyers prioritising range and everyday usability.

This release reflects Hyundai’s broader EV strategy: bring high-performance tech to mainstream models while simplifying buyer decisions — a pragmatic approach as electric vehicle adoption accelerates across markets like Australia.