Hyundai Ioniq 5 review – cutting-edge EV with retro looks

Verdict - Is the Hyundai Ioniq 5 a good car?

If you’re looking for an electric car that stands out, few will turn as many heads as the retro-futuristic Hyundai Ioniq 5. Thanks to its boxy shape there’s plenty of room inside the Ioniq 5’s modern and minimalist cabin – plus even entry-level cars come loaded with kit. While it may not be able to match its sharp-looking exterior in terms of driving dynamics, the Ioniq 5’s electric motors still provide plenty of punch and, when equipped with the larger battery, it offers a range of well over 300 miles.

Hyundai Ioniq 5 range

Hyundai has been in the electric car market for a while with models such as the Kona Electric. While that’s still a great EV, the Ioniq 5 was the first in the Korean manufacturer's next generation of electric cars. A purpose-built EV that'll never be available as a petrol or plug-in hybrid model, the Ioniq 5 features an upmarket interior and striking retro-futuristic exterior, with eye-catching eight-bit-style lighting.

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A rival for the likes of the Volkswagen ID.4, Toyota bZ4X, Skoda Enyaq, Renault Scenic and Tesla Model Y, the Ioniq 5 shares its underpinnings with the Kia EV6 and Genesis GV60 and is bigger than you'd first assume from how it looks in photos. More like a scaled-up hatchback than an SUV, the Ioniq 5 is actually wider and longer than a Hyundai Tucson SUV, albeit not quite as high off the ground.

Thanks to these dimensions, the distance between the front and rear axles and the flat floor, there's masses of space inside. Rear space is almost limo-like, the boot measures 527 litres and the Ioniq 5 can even tow a respectable amount, making it surprisingly practical. The interior also feels as modern as you'd expect, with twin digital screens for driving information and media or navigation. They can't quite match the Tesla Model Y for sheer wow factor but they're crisp, intuitive and offer plenty of connectivity.

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There's a range of battery and motor options available, starting with an entry-level 58kWh battery and single 168bhp motor powering the rear wheels for up to 238 miles on a charge. Step up to the 77kWh battery – which grew slightly during 2022 – and range improves, with the most efficient version capable of up to 315 miles. Power is also upped to 225bhp, cutting the 0-62mph time to 7.3 seconds. Alternatively, this battery is also available with dual motors, 321bhp and the ability to get from 0-62mph in just 5.1 seconds.

All versions come with ultra-fast 800V charging, allowing for a 10-80% top-up in less than 20 minutes at a compatible 350kW public charging station. Up until now, this has only been seen in range-topping luxury EVs like the Porsche Taycan. Pick the hotted-up Hyundai Ioniq 5 N – which we’ve reviewed in-depth separately – and the hatchback is transformed into an enthusiast’s car arguably even more fun to drive than the Porsche.

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On top of choosing your preferred battery configuration, there are also three distinct trim levels to choose from: Premium, Ultimate and the range-topping Namsan Edition. Each offers an ascending level of equipment, however, even base ‘Premium’ cars live up to their name, with kit such as part-leather heated seats, 64-colour ambient lighting and a reversing camera.

Hyundai is fast becoming a leader for mainstream EVs and the Ioniq 5 features cutting-edge technology not seen before in its class. It also feels roomy, well built and boasts an excellent infotainment setup. For drivers who often head further afield, the 77.4kWh single motor version in Premium trim is our pick of the range, with plenty of performance and standard equipment, plus an excellent 315-mile range.