Hyundai Ioniq 5 review

The Ioniq 5 family hatchback represents a real shift forward in Hyundai’s ability to chase down premium electric rivals, helping to persuade EV buyers who are motivated by stylish design, great on-board tech and practical range and charging speeds, to invest in the Korean brand.

With stunning looks and a sense of cool that sets it apart from the pack, the manufacturer has added to the Ioniq 5’s strong kerb appeal with competitive pricing, generous standard kit and advanced active safety systems. We named it our 2021 Car of the Year, so if you’re thinking of a new purchase and you have the means, then the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is one of the best cars you can buy. 

Over recent years, Hyundai, along with its subsidiary brand Kia, has been at the forefront of producing well-built, practical electrified family cars. Mild- or plug-in hybrid tech is offered on models such as the Ioniq and Kona, as well as the bigger Santa Fe SUV, while the former two cars are also available with the benefits of zero-emission, all-electric drive.

But, pioneering and innovative auto makers must continue to push things forward, or risk falling into EV obscurity, and that is exactly what Hyundai has done with its latest Ioniq 5 hatchback/crossover. In a move away from the architecture used so far across its electric, hybrid and combustion-engined models, the Ioniq 5 is Hyundai’s first car to use its new Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) and, as a foundation for the company’s next-level EV tech, it’s mightily impressive.

Two battery choices are available across the range, along with three individual power outputs: a 58kWh battery and a single 168bhp motor driving the rear wheels provides the entry point to Ioniq 5 ownership, while the next step up includes a 73kWh version paired with a 214bhp rear-mounted motor. The top-spec option comprises the same 73kWh battery, but uses a second motor at the front giving a total of 301bhp and a meaty 605Nm of torque. Hyundai has already announced plans to update the range for 2022, with a larger 77.4kWh battery to replace the 73kWh unit, along with some suspension tweaks and extra kit on the options list.

Buyers thinking of investing in a capable family EV now have top quality options to consider. The Volkswagen ID.3 hatchback might suit smaller households, although the ID.4 is a more direct rival to the 4.6-metre long Ioniq 5 and offers more space and day-to-day practicality than its compact sibling.

Meanwhile, Ford has come up with its own brilliant all-electric model, the Mustang Mach-E, which provides the typical blue oval USP of a great driving experience, as well as being easy to live with. The Kia EV6 has a sportier feel compared to the Ioniq 5, although uses the same architecture and battery technology, while the Skoda Enyaq is another excellent family EV. 

Hyundai provides three trim levels for the Ioniq 5: SE Connect, Premium and Ultimate. Entry-level kit is good with 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, rear parking sensors, climate control and smart cruise control all included, while inside the cabin there’s a wireless smartphone charging pad and two 12.3-inch displays – one covering the infotainment and the other a digital instrument cluster providing key info for the driver.

The Ioniq 5 range starts from just over £37,000 and rises to around £48,000. An Ultimate-spec car, particularly when paired with the most powerful 301bhp dual-motor setup, brings the Ioniq 5 firmly into Tesla territory, and will also provide food for thought for those considering an Audi Q4 e-tron in a top Edition 1 or more expensive Vorsprung trim.

If you’re looking to buy an electric car, why not visit our sister site buyacar.co.uk for the latest deals…