The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N emerges as a formidable all-wheel-drive contender, representing the first electric Hyundai model to receive the prestigious N treatment. With an impressive 641hp under its hood, this model redefines electric performance and elevates Hyundai’s standing in the electric vehicle market. Priced at $67,475 (RM316,086), it claims the title of the most expensive Hyundai vehicle available, offering compelling value for enthusiasts seeking track-worthy performance in an electric vehicle.
Distinguished from its counterparts, the Ioniq 5 N boasts exclusive features tailored for performance enthusiasts. Its potent electric powertrain, capable of producing up to 641hp with the N Grin Boost activated, promises exhilarating acceleration and dynamic performance. Enhanced Brembo brakes and wider Pirelli P Zero three-season tyres ensure optimal handling and control. Additionally, the Ioniq 5 N incorporates a larger 84.0-kWh battery pack, providing extended range and endurance for spirited driving.
The Ioniq 5 N introduces innovative functionalities designed to enhance the driving experience. A drift mode enables drivers to induce controlled oversteer, while the Torque Drift Kick system simulates a clutch dump, adding an element of excitement to cornering manoeuvres. The N e-Shift function mimics the sensation of an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, enhancing the feeling of engagement for enthusiasts. Moreover, the N Active Sound+ feature generates synthetic petrol-engine noises, adding an auditory dimension to the driving experience.
Within the Hyundai Motor Group, which includes Kia and Genesis, the Ioniq 5 N finds itself positioned among a range of high-performance electric vehicles. Kia offers the EV6 GT, boasting 576hp and priced at $62,975 (RM295,006), while Genesis introduces the luxury-focused GV60 Performance, featuring 483hp and priced at $70,900 (RM332,131). Positioned between these offerings, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N strikes a balance between performance and affordability, catering to discerning electric vehicle enthusiasts.
The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N represents a significant milestone for Hyundai, marking its foray into high-performance electric vehicles. With its impressive power, innovative features, and competitive pricing, the Ioniq 5 N is poised to make waves in the electric vehicle market. Scheduled for release in the U.S. later this month, it promises to redefine expectations for electric performance and solidify Hyundai’s position as a leader in the electric vehicle segment.
Closer to home, Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) officially launched the Ioniq 5 electric vehicle (EV) back in 2022 with a starting price of RM199,888.
All-wheel drive (AWD) is available in all types of vehicles today but until 50 years ago, they were not typically found in roadgoing passenger cars and only in off-road dual-purpose vehicles (which are today called SUVs or crossovers). While Audi could be said to have started the trend by coming out with AWD system for roadgoing models in the early 1980s, it was Subaru (then known as Fuji Heavy Industries) which can lay claim to offering the first 4-wheel drive car in 1972.
Although British carmaker Jensen did have a sportscar called the FF which had AWD, only 320 units were ever produced; Subaru made it available in a mass-produced model. The model was the Leone which had been introduced in 1971, and a 4-wheel drive system was incorporated in the stationwagon version that was launched in Japan in September 1972. The timing was just right as the Winter Olympics were held in Sapporo that year and having a car with all four wheels powered was advantageous in the snow and ice.
4WD and AWD
Before going further, a bit of explanation about 4WD, which was installed in the early Subaru models, and AWD which is more commonly used today. 4WD (or 4×4) has power and torque going to all four wheels constantly which is useful in rough terrain and lower speeds, but not so good on roads. With AWD, all four wheels are also powered but there is ‘intelligent’ variation between the front and rear wheels according to grip conditions.
The first Subaru 4WD system was initially fitted to prototype vehicles as early in 1969 and by 1971, in a small number of FF-1 sedans. The engineers used feedback from those vehicles to improve and make the system more reliable and durable for wider application. The company was encouraged to finalise the 4WD project when the Tohoku Electric Supply Company, which supplied the mountainous and snowy Tohoku Prefecture in the north of the Japanese main island of Honshu with electricity, invited Subaru to tender for vehicle supply. The energy supplier was looking for a safe and reliable vehicle for its employees to use in all weather conditions and Subaru was ready with its 4WD Leone Stationwagon.
The 4WD SYSTEM was a simple one compared to today’s ‘intelligent’ systems like Subaru’s own Symmetrical AWD. It was mechanically activated via a dog clutch and power from the 1.4-litre boxer 4-cylinder engine was transmitted to all four wheels proportionately. The durability of the system was proven not just by owners who used the Leone in challenging conditions but also in 1977 at the marathon rally from London to Sydney. A Leone completed the 30,000-km drive, finishing fourth place in the AWD class.
Key selling feature
It would become a key selling feature of the Japanese brand and popularise its vehicles in markets, with more than 20 million AWD vehicles produced to date. In the USA, the Leone gained a sort of cult status and Subaru of America proposed the development of a compact lifestyle pick-up truck based on the Leone. The model the engineers in Japan came up with was described as a ‘Bi-drive Recreational All-terrain Transporter’ and the American marketing people immediately decided that it could be called ‘Brat’ when it was launched in 1978.
The Brat (also called Brumby in Australia) was a hit as well, especially with the beach communities on the West Coast. Even former President Ronald Reagan got one for himself, using it on his ranch. The Brat had the 4WD system, of course, and two engine choices were available – 1.6 litres and 1.8 litres. Some variants had a transfer case with High and Low ranges as well and 4WD could be selected at the touch of a button.
From 4WD TO Symmetrical AWD
As a pioneer in putting 4WD in passenger cars, it was not surprising that Subaru continued to develop more advanced drivetrains as the years went by. With more electronic technology available, it was possible to precisely control the amount of power flowing to the wheels for better vehicle stability and control.
The led to the permanent symmetrical AWD system that is available in virtually all Subaru models, except the rear-wheel drive BRZ. With Symmetrical AWD, the entire drive system, from the longitudinally-mounted engine to the rear differential, is mounted in a straight, symmetrical line. This precise orientation means each side of the system weighs the same, offering superior balance which benefits driving dynamics.
Active torque-split in the system distributes torque 60:40 front and rear, based on information from sensors constantly monitoring tyre grip, vehicle speed, steering angle, etc. The electronically controlled Multi Plate Transfer adjusts torque distribution to the front and rear tyres in real-time to suit driving conditions, as well as the transmission and driver inputs. The system is so advanced it can detect a loss of traction, or slip, of a wheel in less than one revolution of the wheel.
Another available feature is variable torque distribution which provides aggressive, sporty driving with increased turning abilities while retaining the fundamental driving stability offered by the Symmetrical AWD. An uneven 45:55 front and rear torque distribution is used for the front and rear ratio. Sending more torque to the rear wheels can reduce understeer, a trait that plagues 4WD vehicles. Torque distribution is controlled automatically up to an equal 50:50 front and rear.
Ever since businesses resumed their operations, they seem to be catching up with lost time and new models are being quickly launched. Now they can do it faster since there is no need to find a venue and organise all the ‘song and dance’ routine because they can do it online.
The latest to use the online channel for launching a new model is Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia (JLRM) which today officially launched the new 2020 Range Rover Evoque. Two variants of the luxury compact SUV are available – Evoque and Evoque R-Dynamic – with prices from RM426,828 and RM475,398, respectively (inclusive of 5% sales tax exemption but excluding registration fees, insurance premium and roadtax).
In conjunction with the Malaysian launch, JLRM is also offering RM3,000 worth of accessory vouchers (for a limited time only) that can be used to purchase original Evoque accessories. The accessories come with a 5-year warranty.
The Evoque is in its second generation which was launched in 2018 and the latest one has received cosmetic and functional updates. The design remains instantly recognisable, a sophisticated evolution of the original’s distinctive coupe-like silhouette.
The R-Dynamic variant features more exterior enhancements such as burnished copper accents on the front and rear bumpers, as well as front fender inserts.
Both variants come with a new 2- litre Ingenium turbocharged petrol engine and a 9-speed automatic transmission. The twin scroll turbocharged engine comes in two states of tune: for the Evoque, the output is 200 ps/320 Nm while for the R-Dynamic variant, it’s 249 ps/365 Nm.
The technical updates
Most of the updates are on the technical aspects, starting with the All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system having Driveline Disconnect technology. Standard for both variants, the system allows the driver to fully disengage drive to the rear wheels when cruising to reduce frictional losses. When conditions require additional traction or stability, the system will seamlessly re-engage in a fraction of a second.
For more challenging conditions, the Terrain Response 2 system (standard as well) is engaged to automatically adjust the vehicle’s driving characteristics to match surface conditions. Flooded roads won’t stop the Evoque either as it is claimed to have the best-in-class wading depth of 600 mm.
Advanced visibility technologies
With the R-Dynamic variant, there is the segment’s first ‘ClearSight Rear View Mirror’ that transforms into a high-definition (HD) video screen when activated. If rear visibility is compromised by passengers or bulky items, the driver can flip a switch located on the underside of the mirror to activate a camera feed from the top of the car to display the back end of the vehicle in crisp high definition. The camera has a 50-degree field of vision and superior visibility in low light.
Also exclusive for the R-Dynamic variant is the world’s first ‘ClearSight Ground View’ technology allows the driver to virtually see through the bonnet and under the front end of the vehicle. The driver can see, on the dashboard display, a 180-degree view of the ground ahead, which should be very useful on rough ground.
The new Evoque is also the first Land Rover model to feature Smart Settings, a system which uses artificial intelligence algorithms to learn the driver’s preference. The system applies the driver’s preference to automate comfort and driver-specific media settings throughout the drive.
The vehicle ‘recognises’ the driver from their key fob and smartphone with the use of ‘self-learning’ technology, enabling specific seat and steering column position set up upon approach. Up to 8 driver profiles can be registered. After a few journeys, the Evoque remembers the driver’s preferred temperature settings, media preference and commonly dialled numbers, depending on the time or day of the week.
Intelligent infotainment system
Land Rover’s InControl Touch Pro Duo infotainment system is central to the vehicle’s digital interior experience. This combines two sleek 10-inch high-definition glass touchscreens and a 12.3-inch driver display panel on the instrument panel. To minimise distractions, the ‘hidden until lit’ interior is used for the state-of-the-art digital interface. A Meridian Sound System is installed in the new Evoque and this has no less than 11 speakers including a subwoofer.
According to Nick Rogers, Executive Director, Product Engineering of Jaguar Land Rover, the Evoque is now smarter than ever. The software that sits behind the infotainment system has been refined to provide a more intuitive customer experience. “On top of that, we’ve added Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration. Apple CarPlay connects you to your smartphone while the 4G wifi hotspot connects you to the internet,” he explained.
Additional safety systems
Lane Keep Assist is a new safety feature which helps the driver to stay in their lane by adding a necessary steering correction feature. It initiates a gentle steering input to return the vehicle to its intended position
Also added is Driver Condition Monitor technology, a safety feature that is based on the driver’s steering inputs. Jerky, non-linear movements that are typical symptoms of a fatigued (or drunk) driver will automatically trigger an audible and visual warning from the instrument cluster.
All Land Rover vehicles distributed by JLRM come with Land Rover Care, which entitles owners to 5 years (or maximum of 65,000 kms) of free scheduled servicing, 5 years (or maximum of 150,000 kms) warranty coverage and 3 years of roadside assistance.
In recent years, as the popularity of SUVs (especially the smaller ones) increased, many importers have focussed more on variants with only 2WD. These are usually cheaper, and customers don’t really care about whether two or all four wheels are powered. They’re more interested in the high seating position and perhaps the ground clearance, as well as interior utility.
However, there are also those who feel that 4WD or All-Wheel Drive (AWD) should be present in SUVs, just like they were in earlier years. Never mind that they might not actually go off-road, the presence of AWD added a degree of stability and grip, especially on wet roads.
When Bermaz Auto introduced the Mazda CX-30 at the beginning of this year, it offered only FWD versions with either SKYACTIV petrol or turbodiesel engines. Now, the range will include an AWD variant which is priced at RM176,059 (Peninsular Malaysia price, without insurance) for those who must have all four wheels powered.
The price is RM12,000 more than the high grade CX-30 which has the same 2-litre SKYACTIV-G petrol engine. This is not surprising since the i-ACTIV AWD system, which is quite sophisticated, adds cost, apart from the fact that the CX-30 is imported from Japan as a CBU (completely built-up) model.
The features and specs are the same as the CX-30 High Grade and you have a choice of 8 exterior colours – Soul Red Crystal, Machine Gray, Jet Black, Deep Crystal Blue, Sonic Silver, Snowflake White Pearl, Titanium Flash and Polymetal Gray Metallic.
How Mazda i-ACTIV works
The AWD systems in today’s SUVs vary in sophistication and for Mazda’s i-ACTIV AWD system, the engineers redesigned the system’s hardware and software, taking a proactive approach to controlling drive to all four wheels,
A fully-autonomous AWD system, i-ACTIV AWD constantly monitors surface conditions in real-time, watching for tiny variations in wheel speed that a driver would never notice. Proactively controlling the distribution of torque, which can range from full front-drive through to full 4-wheel-drive, the system not only provides solid and predictable handling for all-road performance, it makes driving on poor road surfaces more efficient by all but eliminating wasteful tyre-slippage.
Using a wide range of sensors to ‘paint’ a highly accurate picture of the overall driving scene, including road conditions and the driver’s intentions, i-ACTIV continuously calculates and adjusts the amount of torque sent to the rear wheels.
The perfect amount of torque is calculated and transferred to the rear wheels instantaneously (as and when needed). This is done by the AWD coupling unit which sends the appropriate drive force to the rear wheels. The system minimizes torque to the rear wheels when on dry road surfaces with good traction. The result is secure take-off, acceleration, cornering and braking, without the tyres slipping in any direction.
The sensors monitor for rain by watching the wipers and the external temperature gauge. The system can also measure how slippery the road surface is by comparing steering torque with the amount of current running through the electric power steering and the gradient of any slope by the degree of acceleration. In addition, the system precisely measures the speed of all four wheels and detects warning signs that indicate the wheels may be in danger of slipping. Along with engine driving force (applied to the front wheels), this is used to understand the driving conditions.
The i-Activ AWD system also has an Off-road Traction Assist system. The system works by distributing the driving force to the tyres that are in contact with the road surface to maximize traction performance.
Additionally, a Torque Control System that allows a lag-free, near-instantaneous response. In order to help the rear-wheel drive unit respond more quickly, the Torque Control System transfers a very small amount of torque to the rear even in front-wheel drive mode. This is known as ‘stand-by torque’ and it helps the system make a smooth and instantaneous transition to AWD drive mode when the command is received to send torque to the rear wheels.
Proven SKYACTIV-G powertrain
As for the powertrain, this uses the proven SKYACTIV-G Direct Injection petrol engine. For the CX-30, the displacement is 1998 cc with a maximum output of 162 ps/213 Nm. Mazda engineers have been able to raise the compression ratio of 13:1 to enhance output without knocking issues even when using RON95 petrol.
Only a SKYACTIV-DRIVE automatic transmission is available but using paddle shifters, the driver can also manually select any of the 6 forward speeds if preferred. While the driver can get sportier performance with a SPORT mode, the AWD system operates entirely on its own with no need for driver involvement.
Extras for the base version
With the latest shipment of CX-30 2.0G version, Bermaz Auto has included a couple of new features – Mazda Advanced Keyless entry and Walk-Away Lock – for added convenience. Though priced at RM145,759 or RM18,300 less than the High Grade version, this version still has a very comprehensive list of equipment and features that justify the price. And as we noted during a test-drive, the CX-30 also has high quality in every aspect which gives a very premium image.
Visit www.mazda.com.my to know more about the CX-30 and other Mazda models in Malaysia.
Contrary to popular belief, Many SUV owners believe that four-wheel-drive capability is a nessesity rather than a means to show off. Atleast that’s what BuyaCar.co.uk was able to surmise from it’s most recent survey. Owners cited snow and persistent flooding as reasons for needing the extra traction.
Though there is a discernible difference between all-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive systems in terms of functionality, for this particular instance, we will ignore that fact. The survey says that more than 70% have admitted to have driven in conditions where conventional two-wheel-drive vehicles would have been left stranded.
Interviews with 316 four-wheel-drive owners has revealed that older SUV owners have a higher appreciation for all-wheel-drive stability for snow driving. But in general, one in four people had no idea if they have ever needed this system but like the reassurance that it provides. However, one in five say that they need it on a regular basis due to worsening road conditions, flooding and the need to traverse muddy areas.
Austin Collins, Managing Director of BuyaCar.co.uk, said, “There is a long standing joke that the closest most four-wheel drive owners get to driving off-road is negotiating the humps in the supermarket car park, but our findings suggest otherwise.”
There are differences between men and women when it comes to why they purchased an SUV. Men who currently own such a vehicle are more than twice as likely to claim that they require the 4WD capability. But, one in four women have admitted that it wasn’t a requirement but welcome the safety assurance that SUVs provide.
Popularity of SUVs have soared in recent years despite the gradual rise of petrol prices and the volatility of the current economic climate. Many believe that the benefits of such a vehicle far outweigh the drawbacks. And the recent survey That was conducted by BuyaCar.co.uk, supports this notion.
Lamborghini has finally introduced its highly-anticipated SUV to the masses. It’s called the Urus, after a famous Spanish fighting bull – the nomenclature of choice for many of the automaker’s models. The styling is inline with lamborghini’s current design language, featuring a swooping bonnet, angular headlights and massive front bumper.
The front fascia, especially the lower region, have been assembled with a series of fins and honeycomb styled inlets that offer sufficient cooling for the car’s engine and also aerodynamic efficiency. The raked roof line makes the Urus look more like a hatchback than a full-fledged SUV. A minimalist approach to the LED tail lights, diffuser and bumper assembly lend a cleaner look to the entire look of the rear.
On the subject of engines, the Urus features a twin turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 powerplant that produces 650bhp and 850Nm of torque. Mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the road via Lamborghini’s all-wheel-drive system. Torque is split 40/60 between the front and rear, which changes depending on the chosen mode (Off-road, Snow, Sand or tarmac) and driving behaviour.
As such, the Urus is able to sprint to 100km/h from a standstill in just 3.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 305km/h. It has an air suspension system, that enables ride height changes as well as rear wheel steering, which at low speeds, turns in the opposite direction to the front ones, for better cornering ability. Lamborghini’s various driving mode selection enables the muffling of the exhaust note when discretion is needed.
Despite its size, the Urus’ body has been kept fairly light through the use of aluminum and Steel. This blend offers a good level of rigidity and lightweight properties, and contributed to it weighing only 2,200kg. It features frameless doors, torsional beams replacing a C-pillar, and cross-members made of aluminium.
Stopping power has been made available through the use of carbon ceramic brakes measuring 440 x 40 mm at the front and 370 x 30 mm at the rear. They are said to offer virtually no brake fade and optimizes pedal feel regardless of driving conditions. Wheel options range from 21 to 23-inches that can be fitted to a variety of tyre types that have been especially developed by Pirelli for the automaker.
Like other Lamborghinis, the interior has been layed out with a decent blend of sportiness and luxury appeal. There’s a decent infotainment system and a slew of connectivity options to cover your entertainment needs. It is coupled with an 8-speaker setup that can be upgraded to a high-end Bang & Olufsen Sound System with 3D sound and 1,700 watt output and 21 fully active speakers.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems are fitted as standard and offer a decent level of safety and security to driver and passengers. The High Beam Assistant automatically fades headlights in and out of high beam mode as required, front and rear parking sensors and cruise control are also included as standard, as is the PreCognition system preventing or mitigating collisions.
The Urus is one of the the most technologically advanced Lambos in the stable and features keyless start, electrically operated rear taligate as well as a whole slew of others. Unlike other models, the Urus is meant to offer a blend of luxury, comfort and sportiness that isn’t really offered by other vehicle manufacturers.
Ford’s venerable Expedition now comes in a new trim level called the FX4, and its purpose is to be the most off-road capable Expedition ever. The reason for its inception is that the Blue Oval determined that 20 percent of Expedition owners use their vehicles for off-road adventures and as such, their Expedition should be able to keep up with them.
“The FX4 Off-Road package delivers off-road driving confidence,” said Mike Kipley, Expedition vehicle engineering manager. “The technology we’re using works to adapt to different driving conditions so customers can enjoy the adventure without worry.”
The following is what separates the Expedition with the FX4 Off-Road Package compared with other variants of its namesake:
Patented electronic limited-slip rear differential to help improve off-road performance in low-traction situations. It automatically shifts power output to the rear tyre that has the most traction.on which wheels need extra traction. Overall, its gearing improves towing performance and capability
Off-road-tuned shock absorbers to keep wheels in contact with the road
All-terrain tires with thicker sidewalls
Seven different skid plates that serve as underbody armor and protect critical areas. These plates consist of a sand shield to protect the turbocharger intercoolers from getting clogged by dirt or mud, steel plates to protect steering gear, engine, transmission and transfer case as well as the fuel tank.
18-inch Magnetic Metallic-painted cast-aluminum wheels
Chrome running boards
FX4 badging on the liftgate and front fender
New rubber floor liners featuring deep side sills that can be removed and cleaned of any mud, sand or water
Like the rest of the variants, the FX4 benefits from Ford’s Terrain Management System that offers seven different drive modes (Normal, Sport, Tow/Haul, Eco, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Sand, Mud/Rut) that help the Expedition cope with different road conditions. Drivers also have the option of toggling between 2WD and 4WD mode depending on their preference/needs at any given time.
Under the hood of the FX4 is the 3.5-litre EcoBoost engine that produces 375bhp and 637Nm of torque. It is mated to an all-new 10-speed automatic transmission that will help fuel economy and provide the vehicle with the capability of towing a load of up to 4,218kg.
The Cabin is very spacious as expected and is able to offer seating for eight occupants and still provide a decent cargo space volume. And unlike the old days, Ford’s current Expedition comes with a whole slew of entertainment and safety tech that should win over city dwellers as well as adventure seekers.
The Ford Expedition FX4 will only be available in the US and will go on sale sometime in the second half of this year.