The Hyundai Ioniq 5, a battery-powered compact crossover SUV, is a close relative of the Kia EV6. It offers a relatively low price point for the SEL model, $45,900—which is reduced by $7,500 thanks to a federal income tax credit. The Ioniq 5 comes with up to 303 miles on a single charge. A standard SE model with less range will start at $40,925, but it’s not expected to debut from Hyundai Motor Group until mid-2022.
The compact crossover market is the most crowded segment of electric vehicles. Available models include the Ford Mustang Mach-E, the Volkswagen I.D.4, and the Volvo XC40 Recharge. Luxury EVs like the Tesla Model Y is offered at a higher price point. Hyundai also offers a second, smaller electric crossover, the Kona Electric, starting at $35,245.
The Ioniq 5 with rear-wheel drive has a combined EPA rating of 114 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) and 98 MPGe with all-wheel drive (AWD). The $50,600 Limited model has the same range as the SEL but adds such amenities as a full-length “vision roof,” premium head-up display, blind-spot monitoring, and parking assistance. Buyers can upgrade any of the Ioniq 5 trims to AWD.
The standard Ioniq 5 battery (58 kWh), paired to a single rear battery, offers 168 horsepower. With the longer-range 77.4 kWh battery and rear drive, the car provides an impressive 225 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Add a second motor and the AWD Ioniq 5 jumps to an exciting 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet. Moreover, the two-motor version can reach 60 mph in 5.2 seconds, compared to 7.4 in the one-motor iteration. All versions of the Ioniq 5 are rated to tow 2,000 pounds and reach a top speed of 115 miles per hour.
The Ioniq 5’s bright and airy interior features an EV advantage and a completely flat floor. Additionally, a large central console slides back and forth, and the front seats recline with footrests. There is a pair of 12.3-inch screens, with the digital dashboard on the left and infotainment/climate on the right).