Built for New England Winters: Why the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N and Tucson are NEMPA’s Top Picks

Are you searching for a vehicle that can confidently handle whatever a New England winter throws its way? From icy commutes to snowy adventures, drivers in Rhode Island need a car or SUV that offers reliability, safety, and performance when the weather turns harsh. That’s why the recent announcement from the New England Motor Press Association (NEMPA) is such exciting news for our community.

NEMPA, a group of automotive journalists who rigorously test vehicles in our region’s toughest conditions, has honored two Hyundai models with prestigious winter vehicle awards. Here at Nucar Hyundai of North Kingstown, we’re proud to announce that the thrilling 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 N and the versatile 2025 Hyundai Tucson have been recognized as leaders in their classes. Let’s explore what makes these vehicles the perfect winter warriors for drivers in North Kingstown and beyond.

The Ultimate Winter EV: The 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 N

For those who thought electric vehicles couldn’t handle a frosty New England morning, the IONIQ 5 N is here to change your mind. It not only impressed the experts at NEMPA, but it drove away with two of their highest honors: the “Official Winter EV of New England” and “Best In-Class Performance Car.”

What makes it so good in the snow? It starts with the standard dual-motor HTRAC All-Wheel Drive system, engineered to provide exceptional grip and stability on slick surfaces. With up to 641 horsepower on tap, you’ll have all the power you need for confident merging and passing on US-1. Imagine the peace of mind of knowing your vehicle has the traction and instant response to handle a sudden snow squall on your way to visit family in Cranston or Newport. The IONIQ 5 N proves that world-class performance and all-weather capability can go hand-in-hand.

The Go-Anywhere SUV: The 2025 Hyundai Tucson

If you’re looking for a family-friendly SUV that’s ready for any adventure, look no further than the 2025 Hyundai Tucson, named “Best In-Class SUV” by NEMPA. The Tucson is a perennial favorite for its blend of style, comfort, and practicality, and its winter-ready features make it a perfect fit for life in Rhode Island.

With the available HTRAC All-Wheel Drive, the Tucson can confidently navigate unplowed side streets and snowy driveways. Its generous ground clearance means you won’t have to worry about getting stuck after a heavy snowfall. Picture packing up the family and heading out for a winter hike at Goddard Memorial State Park; the Tucson has the capability and cargo space to get you there safely and with all your gear. Plus, with its advanced safety features and a newly redesigned, user-friendly interior, the Tucson is a sanctuary of comfort and security when the roads are treacherous.

Why a NEMPA Award Matters

The NEMPA Winter Vehicle Awards aren’t just for show. They are the result of months of real-world testing by journalists who live and drive right here in New England. They push vehicles to their limits on snow, ice, and frigid pavement to determine which ones truly excel. When NEMPA gives a vehicle its stamp of approval, you can be sure it’s built to conquer the cold.

Experience an Award-Winning Winter Drive in North Kingstown

Hyundai’s success at the NEMPA awards confirms what we at Nucar Hyundai of North Kingstown already knew: these vehicles offer an unbeatable combination of performance, safety, and reliability for New England drivers.

Don’t just take our word for it. We invite you to experience the confidence of driving a NEMPA award-winner for yourself. Visit our showroom at 3665 Quaker Ln, North Kingstown, to test drive the exhilarating 2025 IONIQ 5 N or the versatile 2025 Tucson. Check out our inventory online and see why when it comes to finding the perfect vehicle, “Everyone loves a Nucar!”