By: Brian Moody, Executive Editor for Autotrader
There are lots of new electric cars on the way, this is the newest electric car from Hyundai, it’s called the Ioniq 5. The Ioniq 5 is a little different than most of the electric cars we’ve seen so far. Here’s what sets the Ioniq 5 apart:
Stylish Look
First, the retro but modern look is unique. Most electric cars have a soft or very rounded look. This is done to increase the car’s aerodynamics which, in turn, helps it slip through the air in order to be as efficient as possible. With the Ioniq 5, the look stands out. The
sculpted lines and hatchback style look set it apart from other modern cars.
Pixels Everywhere
Second, as part of that retro treatment, there’s a very noticeable “square” or pixelated theme. Nothing says 70s and 80s quite like square headlights – remember when that was cool?
But Hyundai takes the square theme a step further by incorporating it throughout the car – it’s in the pattern on the seats, the door panels, the door sill, and the taillights – the taillights are even squares within smaller squares. That theme is even incorporated into the charging port. As the battery is recharged, these square symbols let you know the level of charge – it kind of looks like the game Tetris.
Regenerative Braking
Third, Like many electric cars, the Ioniq 5 has a regenerative braking system. The driver can set different levels of regen by using steering column-mounted paddles. Essentially, this means the car’s braking system can add energy back to the car’s battery.
Design Details
Extra points for inside the Ioniq 5, the simple and straight dash, and displays. Even the steering wheel has just four simple squares. And even the gear selector is unusual – you twist to get into drive, or reverse.
The fourth thing I really like are the complex wheels. They’re two colors and you can’t really tell where the plastic cover starts, and the metal wheel ends. I bet they’re no fun to clean. The way the door handles pop out when you unlock the car is also different.
There’s also this Tesla-like charge port door – it opens by pressing a button on the key fob, or you can push on it directly. There’s also a power adapter that lets you run electrical tools, gadgets, or appliances right from your Hyundai.
Finally, one of the best things about the Ioniq 5 is the 360-degree parking camera. There are several options here but the Ioniq 5 gives you a very thorough look at what’s around you – this is something I first noticed in Genesis vehicles; it’s almost like there’s a drone hovering over the car.
Inside, the Ioniq 5 has a few interesting features – for example, the center console can move back and forth. Usually, this is just a moveable armrest. As for cargo storage, there’s a rather normal-looking cargo area – but… there is hidden storage area under the hood. This is Hyundai’s version of a “Frunk” or a front-mounted trunk.
In addition to the unique look and unusual features inside, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a well-executed electric car. There’s a base model with just under 200 hp and a 220-mile range, and a 225 hp version with a driving range of a little over 300 miles.
Both models are rear-wheel drive. There’s also an all-wheel drive version that has 320 hp – however, this version has a little less range, about 260 miles.
The author of this article, Brian Moody, is Executive Editor for Autotrader and a monthly contributor to YurView’s Creative Living show, airing Sundays at 8:30 pm, Mondays at 7:30 pm, Thursdays at 8 pm, and Saturdays at 10 pm.
