When the Hyundai Ioniq 5 electric crossover made its debut last year, it quickly emerged as a strong contender in the EV market challenging Tesla. Its impressive range, spacious interior, and distinctive design set it apart. Fast forward to 2023, and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 continues to impress.
Even as new electric vehicles entered the market post the Ioniq 5’s launch, few have managed to match its performance. The foundation of its superiority lies in Hyundai Motor Group’s e-GMP 800-volt platform, enabling extended range and quicker charging times. A telling comparison is with the Toyota bZ4X. The Ioniq 5 boasts a driving range of up to 303 miles, surpassing the bZ4X’s shorter 252-mile range. Charging the Ioniq 5 from 10% to 80% takes merely 18 minutes, whereas the bZ4X requires around 30 minutes.
Although the Ioniq 5 is still relatively new, Hyundai has made minor enhancements in the 2023 model. Standard features now include a battery heating system and a battery preconditioning system. The all-wheel drive variants enjoy an additional 10-mile increase in driving range, now at 266 miles. Moreover, the maximum towing capacity has been raised to 2,300 pounds from 1,650 lbs.
The Ioniq 5 is offered with two powertrain options—single- or dual-motor configurations. The base SE Standard Range model is propelled by a rear-mounted electric motor generating 168 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Equipped with a 58 kWh battery pack, the base model offers a 220-mile range. Other single-motor versions are equipped with a larger 77.4 kWh battery, producing 225 hp and 258 lb-ft., with a range of 303 miles. The dual-motor all-wheel-drive Ioniq 5 delivers 320 hp and 446 lb-ft., covering a range of 266 miles.
While the Ioniq 5 may not accelerate as rapidly as some Tesla Model Y variants, it is certainly no slouch. The AWD version delivers powerful torque instantly, typical of an EV. With its substantial battery positioned under the floor, the Ioniq 5 maintains stability on the road, handling curves adeptly. Although its steering may feel light, the Ioniq 5 remains more engaging to drive compared to the bZ4X or the VW ID.4. Although the Tesla Model Y offers superior performance and a lengthier range (330 miles), a closer examination of the specifications reveals interesting details.
The base Model Y provides a 266-mile range starting at $46,990, whereas the base Ioniq 5 comes in at $42,785. The Model Y Long Range, with a 330-mile range, starts at $49,990. The Ioniq 5 SE, offering a 303-mile range, is priced from $45,500. The pricing for the Ioniq 5 peaks at $52,600, while the Tesla Model Y Performance, with a 303-mile range, is priced at $53,990. Consequently, despite the Model Y’s enhanced performance, the Ioniq 5’s value proposition is hard to ignore.
The Ioniq 5’s cabin exudes a spacious and comfortable ambiance, providing ample room in both seating rows. The front center console is adjustable, sliding forward and backward. When pushed back entirely, an open floor space emerges between the driver and front passenger. Notably, compared to the bZ4X, the Ioniq 5 offers more rear legroom at 39.4 inches versus 35.3 inches in the Toyota. With the rear seats up, there is 27.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
In terms of technology, the Ioniq 5 shines with its dual 12.3-inch screens—one for the gauge cluster and the other for the infotainment system. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, they aren’t wireless. The top-tier Limited model adds a head-up display and a Bose audio system for an enhanced experience.
Regarding safety, the Ioniq 5 incorporates all standard driver assistance features, such as automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, a blind-spot collision avoidance system, and lane-keeping assist.
In conclusion, the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5 stands out as one of the top non-luxury electric SUVs, offering a well-rounded package at an attractive price point for budget-conscious EV enthusiasts. It’s a tough offering to overlook.
Image Source: Pixabay
