2. Thrilling drive quality
One of the biggest draws of EVs is their tremendous power and drive quality compared to many ICE options. With the Ioniq 5 coming in versions with a single motor or dual motors, you can go from 0-to-60 in the mid 4-second range in the Ioniq 5, strong numbers that translate to one of the more fun driving options available in an EV today.
Beyond moving quickly from a stop, the Ioniq 5 also handles well on both straight and curvy roads, brakes instantly, and will have you looking forward to your time behind the wheel every day. One-pedal driving can be used by drivers who prefer it, and regenerative braking helps preserve range.
Power numbers start at 168 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque on the base, RWD, Standard Range single-motor option, and a Long Range RWD model comes in at 225 hp and 258 pound-feet.
You can move up to 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet on the AWD, dual-motor version (this is the version I recommend). And a limited edition high-performance N model blasts off with 601 horsepower and 545 pound-feet (or 641 and 568 when using N Grin Boost feature). Those are winning numbers by anyone’s measurement.
There’s even an XRT option offered on the Ioniq 5, allowing for some off-road friendly features such as higher ground clearance, all-terrain tires, Terrain Mode Selector and boosted towing capacity.
3. Price cuts for 2026; strong warranties
For 2025 Ioniq 5 models, the pricing ranged from around $44K, going up into the $60K range with the top trims including the performance N model.
But for 2026 models of the Ioniq 5 (which are essentially a carry-over of the 2025 model), to match the loss of the federal tax credit and stay competitive, Hyundai has wisely dropped their base price closer to $35K, and the ceiling now reaches the low $50K range.
This new, lower price range will be a big selling point, as 2026 pricing starts below nearly all its key EV competitors.
On top of that, you also get Hyundai’s industry-leading warranties, including:
— 5-year/60,000-mile New Vehicle Warranty
— 10-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Warranty
— 10-year/100,000-mile Electric Vehicle System Warranty
— 3-year/36,000-mile Complimentary Maintenance
— 5-year/Unlimited-mile Roadside Assistance
4. Tech-savvy setup and strong safety features
Technology is one of the strongest elements on the 2025 Ioniq 5, with an easy-to-use 12.3-inch center touchscreen and a twin 12.3-inch information screen in front of the driver. The vehicle responds well to voice commands as well, allowing you to focus on driving and skip using the touchscreen in most scenarios.
Another highlight is the Bose Premium Audio system, which sounds crisp and clear even at louder volumes. Sounds come courtesy of AM or FM radio, satellite radio (90-day trial included), or via your phone or other device via Bluetooth. Android Auto and Apply CarPlay can be connected wirelessly to mirror your phone as well.
Safety ratings are stellar, due in part to the large number of safety tech systems included on the Ioniq 5, including the Highway Driving Assist — which handles basic self-driving duties via its lane centering and adaptive cruise control systems.
Other safety features include:
— Forward collision warning with automatic braking
— Intersection collision mitigation
— Blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic warning
— Head-up display
— Safe Exit Assist
5. Sharp design
The Ioniq 5 had a standout design in its EV class, incorporating distinct angles and creases, well-designed lighting, plus attractive front and rear ends and wheels up to 20 inches in size. It also includes a panoramic fixed-glass sunroof with power sunshade, plus rain-sensing front wipers.
Moving inside, you get a competent design that matches the sharpness of the exterior — including synthetic leather seats, heated seats in both rows, and a strong design of the tech setup. However, I was slightly underwhelmed by the overall quality of materials throughout the cabin, and this is one area where rival EVS may offer a more complete package.
What you do get is a roomy interior, so all five passengers will be comfortable in the Ioniq 5 with lots of leg room and head room. Cargo space is about middle of the pack for the segment, coming in at 27 feet behind the second row, and 59 cubic feet with the back row down.
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