Let’s be real: Most electric cars look like they were designed by the same guy who makes toasters. Not the Hyundai Ioniq 5. This thing looks like it time-traveled from a cyberpunk anime, and somehow, it’s wildly practical.
With lightning-fast charging, more space than a SUV, and actual personality, the Ioniq 5 isn’t just good for an EV—it’s just good, period. So, is it still the king of affordable electric cool? Let’s break it down. The Looks: A DeLorean for the TikTok Generation
The Ioniq 5 doesn’t do “subtle.”
✅ Pixel-inspired LED lights (because normal headlights are boring).
✅ Clamshell hood & flush door handles (it’s like a concept car that escaped).
✅ Two-tone paint options (for maximum retro-future vibes).
It’s the kind of car that makes Tesla drivers stare—and not in a “look at my boring Model Y” way.
- The Tech: Faster Charging Than Your Phone
Hyundai didn’t just make an EV—they made the EV that fixes EV problems.
🔥 800V architecture = 18-minute 10-80% charges (if you find a 350kW charger).
🔥 V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) = Power your laptop, fridge, or an entire tailgate party.
🔥 Augmented reality HUD (because staring at a screen is so 2020).
Oh, and it’s got over-the-air updates, because waiting at a dealership is for suckers.
- The Space: It’s Like a TARDIS in Here
Somehow, this compact EV has more rear legroom than a Mercedes S-Class.
✅ Flat floor (no transmission tunnel = stretch out).
✅ Sliding center console (adjustable like a damn office chair).
✅ Frunk + massive rear trunk (because groceries won’t haul themselves).
It’s not an SUV, but it’s more usable than most of them.
- The Drive: Shockingly Fun for a Box
You’d expect a fridge-on-wheels feel, but nope:
✔ RWD or AWD (the dual-motor does 0-60 in 4.5s).
✔ One-pedal driving (so smooth you’ll forget brakes exist).
✔ Comfy but not numb (unlike some German EVs).
It’s no Porsche, but it’s way more fun than an ID.4.
- The Catch? (There’s Always One)
We love it, but:
❌ Real-world range? EPA says 303 miles, but AWD models dip below 250.
❌ No rear wiper (because Hyundai hates rain, apparently).
❌ Dealer markups still happen (good luck finding one at MSRP).
Still, for the price? Way fewer compromises than a Tesla.
- Should You Buy One?
If you want an EV that doesn’t feel like a sacrifice, the Ioniq 5 is it.
Buy it if:
✔ You hate boring cars (looking at you, Model 3).
✔ You want fast charging without paying Porsche money.
✔ You need space but hate SUV handling.
Skip it if:
✖ You need 300+ miles of real-world range (get a Model Y instead).
✖ You live where EV infrastructure sucks (this car thrives on fast chargers).
Final Verdict: The EV That Makes Gas Cars Feel Old
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 isn’t just another electric car—it’s a statement. It’s fast, practical, and looks like nothing else on the road.
Is it perfect? No.
Is it the most exciting EV under $50K? 100%.