Overview: 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a stunning SUV that combines a classic 1980s eight-bit design with modern electrification technology. This impressive vehicle has made it to our 10Best Trucks and SUVs list as one of the first EVs to do so. The Ioniq 5 lineup includes a single-motor, rear-drive unit with 168 horsepower that boasts an EPA-estimated range of 220 miles, all the way up to a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive unit with 320 horsepower that can go an estimated 266 miles on a single charge. The single-motor, rear-drive model has a remarkable range of 303 miles and is priced under $60,000, making it one of the farthest-driving EVs available in the market today.
The Ioniq 5's real hero is its 350-kW DC fast-charging capacity, which can rival the charging speeds of much more expensive and luxurious EVs like the Porsche Taycan and Lucid Air. The interior of the Ioniq 5 is roomy, with ample rear-passenger space, surpassing both the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Volkswagen ID.4. The Ioniq 5 offers a wide range of pricing and range availability, making it an excellent choice for those venturing into the world of EV ownership.
Price and Variants: 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5
Hyundai has made some subtle updates to the Ioniq 5 for 2023, which have resulted in a bump in EPA ratings for certain models. The all-wheel-drive models, for instance, now have an estimated range of 266 miles, an improvement from last year's rating of 256 miles, and they also have slightly better MPGe ratings. Additionally, all models now come standard with a battery heating system and preconditioning function. If you need to tow something, the maximum tow rating for SEL and Limited models is now up to 2300 pounds.
Regarding pricing, the SE starts at $42,785, the SEL at $48,785, and the Limited at $53,935. However, we recommend going with the rear-drive SEL trim, which offers an impressive EPA-estimated range of 303 miles and 225 horsepower for less than $50,000. It also comes with features like artificial leather upholstery, a hands-free power liftgate, ambient interior lighting, a heated steering wheel, and wireless charging, among others.
Power and Performance: 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5
The electric motor in the Ioniq 5 comes in different strengths and operates solely on electricity. The standard battery, combined with a single electric motor mounted on the rear, produces 168 horsepower. If paired with the longer-range battery, the rear-wheel drive configuration generates 225 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, resulting in a 7.4-second sprint to 60 mph according to Hyundai. In contrast, the all-wheel-drive model is significantly more potent, producing 320 horses and a substantial 446 pound-feet of torque, resulting in a faster acceleration of 4.5 seconds to 60 mph on the test track. The Ioniq 5 boasts a smooth ride on various road surfaces, and its EV tires and low center of gravity provide a sporty feel when cornering. However, more feedback in the steering and slightly firmer suspension would have been appreciated during our test drive.
Range, Charging and Battery: 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5
The Ioniq 5 has two battery pack options, a standard 58.0-kWh pack and a larger 77.4-kWh pack. The standard pack can provide an estimated range of 220 miles, while the larger pack can offer up to 303 miles with a single motor and 266 miles with dual motors. We tested the dual-motor model and found it can cover 210 miles on a full charge while driving at 75 mph.
The Ioniq 5 is equipped with fast-charging capability, with the larger battery pack capable of replenishing from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 18 minutes when connected to a DC fast charger. Hyundai also claims the vehicle can gain 68 miles of range in just five minutes of charging, which we confirmed during testing. This means that the Ioniq 5 can be charged quickly, making it more convenient for drivers who need to travel long distances.
Interior: 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5
The Ioniq 5's interior design prioritizes technology and sustainability without compromising comfort and functionality. The cabin features a digitized dashboard and eco-friendly materials, complemented by a head-up display with augmented reality that projects navigation directions on the windshield.
As an all-electric crossover, the Ioniq 5 maximizes its interior space with a completely flat floor and ample passenger and cargo room. The front seats are equipped with footrests and can recline for a comfortable ride, even while the car is charging. In fact, the Ioniq 5's wheelbase is longer than that of the three-row Hyundai Palisade, offering more legroom for both front and rear passengers.
Storage space is not an issue, with a large center console and additional compartments for belongings. On top-spec Limited trims, the console can even slide back and forth between the front seats for added convenience. The car's cargo capacity is also impressive, fitting up to six carry-on bags behind the back seats and up to 20 bags with the seatbacks stowed.
While the Ioniq 5 may not have the artistic flair of the Hyundai 45 Concept's cabin, it offers a comfortable and functional space that maximizes the benefits of an all-electric crossover.
Infotainment and Connectivity: 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5
According to Hyundai, the Ioniq subbrand puts a strong focus on connected lifestyles, with the Ioniq 5 offering a range of cutting-edge infotainment and connectivity capabilities. The car boasts a spacious 12.0-inch touchscreen that sits alongside a digital gauge cluster of the same size, with the former acting as the central hub for all entertainment-related activities. This includes advanced voice-recognition software, as well as the ability to connect with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, it's worth noting that these smartphone integration features currently require physical wires to function properly.
Safety and Warranty: 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5
The Ioniq 5 boasts a range of advanced safety features, including a suite of driver-assistance technology and a Highway Driver Assist 2 mode, similar to GM's Super Cruise, which enables semi-autonomous driving on the highway. The vehicle's overall safety rating can be found on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites, where detailed crash test results are available.
Key safety features include forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control, all designed to prevent accidents and minimize their impact.
Hyundai offers an exceptional warranty plan, making the Ioniq 5 an even more attractive option. The limited warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles, the powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles, and the battery is covered for 10 years or 100,000 miles. Additionally, the vehicle comes with complimentary scheduled maintenance for three years or 36,000 miles.