This Car Has Just Been Named Electric Vehicle of the Year

The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N just got handed the Electric Vehicle of the Year title, and it is not because it is trying to be “weird” or “different.” It is winning because it feels weirdly familiar in a category that still makes a lot of people nervous.

Car and Driver’s annual comparison put eighteen new or updated EVs through the wringer, judging value, driving experience, technology, and the stuff drivers actually care about. And the Ioniq 5 N, priced at $67,495, landed on top while also bringing a trick that matters to first-time EV buyers: a shift mode that simulates an 8-speed transmission, instead of forcing you to accelerate endlessly like most EVs.

Then there is the part that could change the whole conversation, 10% to 90% in 35 minutes.

The Electric Vehicle of the Year boasts many lovable features that helped it secure a spot on this list.

The EV of the Year is the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, according to Car and Driver’s annual comparison of new or updated electric vehicles. This car is priced at $67,495, which is higher than other models of electric vehicles that were tested.

Car and Driver editors tested eighteen different electric vehicles and evaluated them across multiple categories. They considered value, driving experience, technology, and other features that consumers love.

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The car has been deemed desirable by consumers, and there are multiple reasons it is the top choice.

Tony Quiroga, Car and Driver’s Editor-in-Chief for the annual comparison, stated that one of the reasons this car was selected as the top choice is the driving experience it offers, which is surprisingly similar to that of a gas-powered vehicle.

"It has a variety of features that allow it to mimic a gas car. It includes a shift mode that simulates an 8-speed transmission, while most EVs have a single speed and you accelerate endlessly," Quiroga said.

“I think people are looking for some familiarity when transitioning to an EV. Almost everyone is a first-time EV buyer, and having that anchor of familiarity is something people desire," Quiroga added. 

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Electric vehicles will perform better if they feel familiar to gas-powered car drivers.

Another reason this vehicle was chosen as the top pick is its fast charging capability, which claims it can go from 10% battery to 90% in just 35 minutes. It also offers a long range for mileage on the battery during highway travel, making it appealing to consumers.

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That “8-speed” shift mode is exactly what Tony Quiroga was pointing to when he said drivers want an anchor of familiarity when they switch from gas.

While other EVs mostly hand you one speed and call it a day, the Ioniq 5 N keeps the rhythm closer to what you already know from a gas car.

Car and Driver’s EV showdown is one thing, but this is similar to Bobby J. Brown’s final wish to his family before his tragic barn fire.

The recent recognition of this car as the Electric Vehicle of the Year highlights the critical role that advancements in battery technology play in the EV market. With consumers increasingly looking for faster charging options, the ability to achieve a charge time of just 35 minutes from 10% to 90% could be a game changer for adoption rates. This feature directly addresses a major concern among potential buyers, which is the fear of running out of battery power during their travels.

Moreover, the exploration of improved battery efficiency, particularly through innovations like solid-state batteries, could significantly boost both the performance and safety of electric vehicles. Such advancements not only diminish range anxiety but also support the broader goal of creating a more sustainable automotive landscape, positioning this car at the forefront of the electric revolution.

And once you add the charging claim, 10% to 90% in 35 minutes, the whole “EV life” timetable starts looking way less stressful for highway runs.

The recent designation of the Electric Vehicle of the Year underscores the critical role of brand trust in the burgeoning EV market. As consumers increasingly gravitate towards electric vehicles, they are more inclined to choose models from manufacturers they perceive as reliable and credible. This trust is not merely about the vehicles themselves but is deeply intertwined with the transparency brands exhibit in their operations. Providing comprehensive details about battery life and sustainability practices is vital. By embracing a transparent approach, companies can enhance consumer confidence, paving the way for broader acceptance of electric vehicles in an increasingly competitive landscape.

That’s why Car and Driver’s editors ended up crowning the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, it checks the boxes people were worried about most, feel, speed, and battery confidence.

With so many electric vehicles on the market, it’s challenging to determine which one is the best, especially given the increasing competition. If you’re interested in exploring an electric vehicle and making the switch, this Hyundai might just be the best choice for you.

The rise of electric vehicles is more than a fleeting trend; it marks a pivotal shift in consumer preferences and technological innovation. As highlighted in the article, advancements in battery technology are crucial for the future of the industry. Automakers are now faced with the challenge of not only keeping pace with rapid changes but also fostering consumer trust in their electric offerings. This trust is essential as the landscape of electric vehicles continues to evolve.

Furthermore, companies that prioritize transparency and efficiency stand to gain a competitive edge while simultaneously promoting sustainability. The journey ahead is filled with promising developments that will benefit both manufacturers and eco-conscious consumers looking for reliable electric options.

The Ioniq 5 N did not just win an award, it made EVs feel less like a leap and more like a switch.

For another heartbreaking goodbye, read Bobby J. Brown’s last wish to his family before the barn fire.