Hyundai IONIQ 5

The Ioniq 5, which debuted in 2022, is Hyundai’s first model designed from the ground up as a battery-powered vehicle. Clearly, they did their homework. It has immediately become one of the most desirable electric vehicles (EVs) on the road today.

The base setup, which Hyundai calls SE Standard Range, utilizes a 58-kWh battery and rear-wheel drive. The combo generates 168 horsepower, which is adequate for most needs, as is its EPA-estimated 220-mile range.

Opting for any of the higher trims (SE, SEL, Limited) gets you a larger 77.4-kWh battery. The additional juice boosts range to 303 miles with rear-wheel drive or 256 miles with optional all-wheel drive. The latter also adds a second motor, which bumps output to 320 hp and enables sub-five-second sprints to 60 mph – as fast as any SUV in the segment.

Like most dedicated EVs, the Ioniq 5 benefits from placing the bulk of its battery pack under the floor. This keeps the center of gravity low for sharper handling. It also creates a surprisingly spacious cabin given its relatively small footprint. In fact, the compact Hyundai offers more rear-seat legroom than a midsize BMW X5 despite being about a foot shorter in length.

Inside the Ioniq 5, the first thing that strikes you is the large digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen placed side by side. They offer clear graphics and an intuitive interface, making it easy to control standard features such as navigation and Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

Other standard equipment includes heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry and ignition, and LED headlights. Among the available upgrades are a hands-free liftgate, front parking sensors, a panoramic sunroof, and a heated steering wheel.

Hyundai also provides all versions of the Ioniq 5 with a full suite of active safety equipment, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot intervention.