Hyundai Is Planning Even More N Performance Cars

Hyundai recently launched the Ioniq 6 N electric sedan, but more high-performance models are on the way. The “N” lineup is set to grow to over seven models by the end of the decade. While details about the newcomers remain under wraps, the goal is for the sporty division to surpass 100,000 global sales. Looking at the current N portfolio, Hyundai is essentially signaling that at least two new models are in development.

At the moment, Hyundai offers five N-badged vehicles: the i20 N, i30 N, and Elantra N on the gasoline side, along with the Ioniq 5 N and Ioniq 6 N on the electric side. A production version of the N Vision 74 is also coming, though it’s unclear whether Hyundai counts it among the new additions. It’s more likely to become a limited-run supercar rather than a permanent member of the lineup. Either way, a flagship N model now feels like a question of when, not if.

What else could be in store? Hyundai has hinted that N-badged gas cars might return to Europe, staying within emissions regulations thanks to hybrid powertrains. With that in mind, a partially electrified Kona N seems plausible. A Tucson N is also a possibility, given the global reach and immense success of the compact crossover.

The recently unveiled Three Concept hatchback will morph into the production-ready Ioniq 3, and with its Veloster-like vibe, it could be a prime candidate for the N treatment. As for the full-size Ioniq 9 SUV, it’s too early to say whether it will get an N version. It may happen, given that Kia already has the EV9 GT.

Hyundai’s plan to expand the N lineup to more than seven models by 2030 refers to full-fledged N cars, not N Line versions, which are the Korean equivalent of BMW’s M Sport Package.