Hyundai IONIQ 5 Limited 2021 Car Review

Hatchback looks upsized

In the launch photos shared we never really grasped the true size of this striking hatchback. It has unique proportions with a 3,000mm wheelbase, which is 100mm longer than Hyundai’s largest and most plush SUV the Palisade.

The front of the car also draws a lot of attention, with its clamshell hood that minimises panel gaps for optimal aerodynamics. Distinctive daytime running lights (DRLs) provide an unmistakable light signature for the IONIQ 5. Pixel-like clusters also appear at the rear of the vehicle, Hyundai refer to these Pixels as Parametric Pixel LED Combination Lamps, and our Limited model also includes the 205W curved solar roof.

From the sides you are greeted with Tesla like auto flush door handles. The door handles provide a clean look and enhanced aerodynamic efficiency, these pop out as you approach the vehicle or press the unlock button.

Aero-optimized wheels further echo the Parametric Pixel design theme and are offered in a large 20-inch diameter, which are the biggest rims ever fitted to a Hyundai EV.

“A new mobility experience for the next generation—this was the mission from the first day we began this project, to look ahead towards the horizon, but stay fundamentally Hyundai,” said SangYup Lee, Senior Vice President and Head of Hyundai Global Design Centre. “IONIQ 5 is the new definition of timeless, providing a common thread linking our past to the present and future.”

Futuristic Lux Interior

The first thing that you notice when you step inside the vehicle is the open airiness of the cabin thanks to its huge wheelbase. This openness is enhanced by the electronically adjustable front seats. The seats can recline to the optimum angle, offering a weightless feeling for the occupant. We can imagine this would be the perfect way to unwind while the vehicle is charging up.

There are two 12.3” displays, they are crisp and clear and what we have come to expect from Hyundai. The display directly in front of the driver’s seat can be customised with a futuristic appearance with its clean white bezels.

Another unique feature is the Universal Island moveable console - all possible thanks to the gear selector being mounted behind the steering wheel. The sliding console allows passengers to not only enjoy more flexibility, but also freely enter and exit the cabin on either side when parked in a narrow spot. Second-row passengers also can enjoy centre console features, such as cup holders, a 15W fast wireless phone charger and USB ports.

It’s not usual for a reviewer to get this excited about the glovebox, but unlike most glove boxes that pivot open this one slides out like a bedside draw, it makes the cabin feel like home.

It’s not just the glove box that is impressive. The rear cargo area is also sizable with 531 litres of space, enough to fit just about everything including the kitchen sink.

Performance and Price

The IONIQ 5 is available with a range of power electric (PE) configurations to fit the mobility needs of every customer, with no compromises on performance. Customers can select from two battery pack options. Either 58 kWh or 72.6kWh, and two electric motor layouts, either with a rear motor only or with both front and rear motors. All PE variations provide outstanding range and deliver a top speed of 185km/h.

At the top of the range was the model we tested. It’s an all-wheel drive (AWD) option paired with the 72.6kWh battery, producing a combined power output of 225kWh and a massive 605Nm of torque. This PE configuration can go from 0km/h to 100km/h in 5.2 seconds.

Hyundai’s limited model was incredibly quick off the line and we are sure that it would be more than enough for most. One of the models we would be keen to compare is the entry model, which we suspect most buyers will be drawn to and will be able to take advantage of the clean car rebates currently available for new BEV models.

Price and specification

• 58 kWh 2WD : $79,990 + (ORC)
• 72.6 kWh 2WD : $89,990 + (ORC)
• 72.6 kWh  : $94,990 + (ORC)
• 72.6 kWh Elite 2WD N/A $96,990 + (ORC)
• 72.6 kWh Limited AWD with Vision Roof CAC, $109,990 + (ORC)
• 72.6 kWh Limited AWD with Solar Roof CAC $112,990 + (ORC)

*All pricing excluded ORC

Fast Charging

The IONIQ 5’s E-GMP can support both 400V and 800V charging infrastructures. The platform offers 800-V charging capability as standard, along with 400V charging; and with the 350kW charger the IONIQ 5 can charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in just 18 minutes. This means you only need to charge the vehicle for five minutes to get 100km of range, according to WLTP.

The IONIQ 5 also provides an innovative V2L function, which allows customers to use nearly any electric device. Such as electric bicycles, scooters or camping equipment. Which can be described as a charger on wheels. We can imagine this being a kiwi favourite for camping.

Note: (Currently waiting on WorkSafe approval).

Verdict

This is an incredibly enticing model and if the future of Hyundai is this comfortable, spacious, and swift we are sure many more buyers who test this model will be on board. It’s odd how this model can feel so modern yet still have a classic appeal.

Unlike the earlier IONIQ models, the IONIQ 5 is carving its own unique path into electrification. Whilst it may be pricier than the Tesla Model 3 it is a lot of car for your money, quite literally with its all-round generous dimensions.

Safety systems

• Speed Limit Sign Recognition and Recommendation
• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA)
• Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA)
• Safe Exit Assit (SEA)
• Intelligent SPeed Limit Assist (ISLA)
• Driver Attention Warning (DAW)
• High Beam Assist (HBA)
• Surround View Monitor (SVM)
• Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA)
• Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist (PCA)
• Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2)
• Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA)

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