Upon its introduction the previous year, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 electric crossover quickly positioned itself as one of the most formidable competitors to Tesla. Its notable range, generous interior space, and distinct design set it apart. In 2023, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 continues to distinguish itself.
Even as new entrants have emerged since the arrival of the Ioniq 5, none have managed to surpass its prowess. Why is this? To begin with, it is based on Hyundai Motor Group’s e-GMP 800-volt platform, enabling an extended driving range and quicker charging times. A straightforward comparison can be drawn between the Ioniq 5 and the Toyota bZ4X. The Ioniq 5 boasts a driving range of up to 303 miles, whereas the bZ4X falls short with a range of 252 miles. Moreover, the Ioniq 5 can be charged from 10-80 percent in just 18 minutes, whereas the bZ4X requires around 30 minutes.
Given that the Ioniq 5 has only been on the market for a brief period, Hyundai has only made minor enhancements to the 2023 Ioniq 5. It now comes standard with a battery heating system and a battery preconditioning system. The good news is that the all-wheel drive variants enjoy a 10-mile extended driving range of 266 miles. Furthermore, the maximum towing capacity has increased to 2,300 pounds, up from 1,650 lbs.
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The Ioniq 5 is offered with two powertrains, in either single- or dual-motor configurations. The base SE Standard Range is equipped with rear-mounted electric motors generating 168 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The base model only provides a 220-mile range with its 58 kWh battery pack. The other single motor versions are equipped with a larger 77.4 kWh battery pack, delivering 225 hp and 258 lb-ft., and a range of 303 miles. Meanwhile, the dual-motor all-wheel drive version of the Ioniq 5 offers 320 hp and 446 lb-ft. with a range of 266 miles.
As can be observed, the Ioniq 5 may not accelerate as swiftly as certain Tesla Model Y models, but it certainly is not sluggish. The AWD version delivers a satisfying punch with the immediate torque that is expected from an EV. Thanks to the substantial battery beneath the floor, the Ioniq 5 remains firmly planted on the road, tackling all the twists and turns with ease. While its steering is somewhat light, the Ioniq 5 is still more enjoyable to drive than the bZ4X or the VW ID.4. Undoubtedly, the Tesla Model Y does offer superior performance and a lengthier driving range (330 miles), but a closer examination of the statistics is necessary.
The base Model Y only boasts a 266-mile range and starts at $46,990, while the base Ioniq 5 is priced starting at $42,785. The Model Y Long Range, with its 330-mile range, begins at $49,990. As for the Ioniq 5 SE, with its 303-mile range, it starts at $45,500. The pricing for the Ioniq 5 tops out at $52,600, and the Tesla Model Y Performance, with its 303-mile range, is priced at $53,990. Therefore, despite the slightly superior performance offered by the Model Y, the added value provided by the Ioniq 5 is difficult to ignore.
Within the interior, the Ioniq 5’s cabin exudes a spacious and comfortable atmosphere, with ample room in both rows of seats. The center console in the front can slide forwards and backward. With the center console pushed all the way back, an open floor space is created between the driver and front passenger. In comparison to the bZ4X, there’s more rear legroom, with 39.4 inches of space, as opposed to the 35.3 inches in the Toyota. With the rear seats up, there’s a cargo space of 27.2 cubic feet, which expands to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
When it comes to technology, the Ioniq 5 impresses 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 are not available wirelessly. The top spec Limited version also adds a head-up display and a Bose audio system.
On the safety front, the Ioniq 5 comes as standard with all the driver assistance features one would expect, such as automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, a blind spot collision avoidance system, and lane keeping assist.
In sum, the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5 effortlessly secures its place as one of our preferred non-luxury electric SUVs. It offers budget-conscious EV shoppers the best of everything at a reasonable price, making it a tough contender to top.
Image Source: Pixabay
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