Hyundai Ioniq 5: Pull up to a charging station in a Hyundai Ioniq 5, and eyes lock on—it’s that kind of SUV. Launched back in 2021, this crossover flipped the EV script with its pixelated, 80s-inspired design and blistering 350kW charging speeds.
Fast forward to 2026 models rolling out now, and Hyundai’s tweaking the recipe without messing with perfection. Spy shots and dealer whispers hint at minor refreshes like a NACS port for Tesla Superchargers, making cross-country jaunts simpler. I test-drove one last monsoon through Haryana’s flooded backroads; silent torque pulled me out of muck like magic, no drama.
The Ioniq 5’s appeal? Space. That 800-volt architecture zaps a flat battery to 80% in 18 minutes at 350kW stations—game over for range anxiety. In India, where chargers are popping up like chai stalls, it’s a commuter’s dream for Delhi-NCR runs. Priced around ₹46 lakh imported, it’s premium but punches luxury punches.
Sharper Looks, Rugged New Tricks
Hyundai nailed the angular aesthetic—retro pixels meet sleek aero. The 2026 lineup adds the XRT off-road trim: 23mm higher ride, all-terrain tires, and bash plates for gravel romps. Standard SE gets 19-inch alloys, while Limited flaunts panoramic sunroofs and matte Sage Silver paint that shimmers under Sonipat sunsets.
Inside, it’s a lounge: clamshell doors swing wide, no B-pillar for van-like entry. Dual 12.3-inch screens run crisp ccNC software, now with better OTA updates. Head-up display projects speed onto the windshield; ventilated seats cool sweaty backs in 40°C heat. Cargo? 531 liters rear, plus frunk for cables. New dual-voltage charger cable sweetens the pot—no extra buys for home Level 2 setups.
Dimensions hold steady: 4.6m long, 1.9m wide, fitting tight urban spots yet swallowing family gear. New colors like Performance Blue Pearl on the N model scream track days.
Power Packs That Thrill and Stretch Miles
Battery choices shine: 63kWh standard-range RWD for 245-mile EPA range, or 84kWh long-range hitting 318 miles RWD/290 AWD. Base single-motor: 168hp/258lb-ft, zipping 0-60 in 7.3 seconds. Upgrade to 225hp RWD or dual-motor 320hp/446lb-ft AWD—4.4 seconds flat, per tests. The beastly Ioniq 5 N cranks 641hp in boost mode, sub-3-second sprints that pin you back.
Efficiency? 94 MPGe combined, real-world 200+ miles at 75mph. HTRAC AWD grips wet highways; multi-terrain modes on XRT tackle mild trails. No engine noise, just whooshes and fake exhaust pops for fun. In India, expect imported RWD focus, eyeing local assembly whispers for 2027 to slash prices.
Suspension’s supple over potholes, brakes regen hard from 100kph. Tires: Continentals hug corners at 0.80g skidpad.
Tech Overload Meets Everyday Smarts
Screens dominate: navigation, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, Bose audio thumps. Highway Driving Assist 2 handles lane changes hands-free; blind-spot cams show side views. Remote Smart Park inches into spots via key fob—handy for crowded bazaars.
SEL and XRT lose minor bits like heated rears (Limited keeps ’em), but gains include expanded Cosmic Blue paint. Voice assistant chats naturally: “Hey Hyundai, find EV stations.” OTA fixes bugs overnight.
Safety’s top-tier: five stars global, with auto braking and cyclist detection. Ownership? Hyundai’s network grows; eight-year battery warranty eases minds. Resale holds as EV adoption climbs.
Buzz, Tweaks, and Rival Heat
Forums light up over NACS adapters unlocking 15,000 Superchargers. Owners mod with LED kits, roof racks for overlanding. Niggles? SEL trim cuts like sliding console irk some, but value shines—loaded SEL under $50k US.
Stacks against Tesla Model Y or Kia EV6 (platform twin) with bolder style, faster charging. In India, Creta EV looms, but Ioniq’s range edges it. Mods: all-terrain swaps, matte wraps turn heads.
Also read this: Aprilia SXR 160 launched with 45Kmpl mileage under the price of ₹1.5 Lakh
Hyundai Ioniq 5 Conclusion: Ioniq 5’s Charge Never Fades
The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 cruises confidently—refined power, geeky charm, and tweaks keeping it fresh. From silent city dashes to highway hauls, it redefines electric joy without fuss. Chargers multiply, prices may dip; snag a demo soon. This EV’s not chasing trends—it’s setting them, mile after zero-emission mile.