The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N’s recent recall has raised questions
Some Hyundai Ioniq 5 N drivers are reporting two issues following the high-performance electric SUV’s software-related recall in February, which included models affected by a software error that could create reduced braking performance, increasing crash risks. Following the 1,508-vehicle recall’s remote software update, some 2025 Ioniq 5 N drivers have described experiencing unintentional acceleration, along with smoother shifting and quieter overall operation.
Hyundai
A Redditor posted two videos on Monday that appear to show sudden acceleration in the vehicle’s N-shift mode. The first video purportedly reflects two instances of unintentional acceleration after the driver removes his foot, while the second video, uploaded by the same Ioniq 5 N owner, seems to show a third example of the claimed defect.
Another Reddit thread, published yesterday, contains additional claims of the EV’s sudden acceleration, with one user writing: “Happened to me today. In a 200hp car, this might not be so bad, but at 600hp, this gets dangerous very quickly. It can be avoided, but that doesn’t absolve Hyundai of pushing this unsafe update on owners. Also, the shifts are so soft now. I’m guessing it’s to protect driveline components, but it does take a lot of fun out of something that now feels more mundane.” This thread’s user added: “I recently had the car in for [a] 12v replacement where they performed the recall to fix the Left Foot Braking issue.” Following the update, one user on the Ioniq forum echoed this Redditor’s claims of altered driving dynamics, saying that “Shifting is much smoother and less aggressive. This is most likely a mistake, but is not dangerous.”
The Ioniq 5 N is no slouch when it comes to performance
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Hyundai’s 2025 Ioniq 5 N, which starts at $66,200, boasts 601 horsepower, 545 lb-ft of torque, and a 0-60 mph time of 3.25 seconds with N Launch Control and N Grin Boost engaged, making the possibility of unintentional acceleration especially dangerous. The defect tied to last week’s Ioniq 5 recall would occur when the left-foot braking feature was activated. Left-foot braking supports the Ioniq 5 N’s impressive track times with its weight transfer management assistance and ability to lower the time it takes to switch from full acceleration to complete braking. In some situations, the Ioniq 5’s defective software could activate depressurization of the anti-locking braking system (ABS), blocking its availability. Unavailable ABS can lead to longer stopping distances, require greater brake pedal force application, and lower control during hard braking, especially on slick surfaces.
While the recall potentially affects up to 1,508 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N models, the problem is estimated to impact 1% of that number realistically.
“Hyundai Motor America was made aware of this alleged occurrence and is currently conducting a thorough investigation. Customer safety is our top priority. We continuously test our software for compliance and will act on any concerns. Owners with questions are advised to visit their local dealership or contact the Hyundai Customer Care Center at (800) 633-5151,” a Hyundai representative told Autoblog.
Hyundai
Final thoughts
It’s nerve-wracking if claims of the speedy 2025 Ioniq 5 N’s unintentional acceleration are valid, but it’s double trouble for Hyundai if comments of quieter operation and smoother shifting are also accurate, despite the latter two reports not impacting safety. Drivers are willing to spend a good chunk of change on the 2025 Ioniq 5 N because the model successfully transfers traditional sporty characteristics to the all-electric landscape in a stylish package. However, softer operation and smoother shifting will likely hurt that model’s appeal in the competitive EV market.