2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 has become a symbol of excellence for the Korean automaker. Since its introduction, the superbly-styled electric vehicle has become a smash hit in the USA, and it's not hard to see why. The 2023 Ioniq 5 has a relatively affordable starting price, and with four models in the range, there's something to suit most budgets. The entry-level SE Standard Range wades into battle with a single electric motor setup that offers 168 horsepower and a range of 220 miles. Pricier models have more power (225 hp) and improved range (303 miles), while the AWD derivatives trade range for muscle; there's 320 hp on tap but only 266 miles of range. The Ioniq 5 - built on the E-GMP platform - is closely related to the Kia EV6, one of its fiercest rivals. Other Hyundai Ioniq 5 competitors include the Mustang Mach-E and the Volkswagen ID.4. While they all have their positive characteristics, the Ioniq 5 stands out thanks to its handsome design, uncluttered, modern cabin, and fun driving characteristics. But in a segment bristling with talented contenders, is it still the one to have?

The price of the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5 starts off at $41,450 for the SE Standard Range, the cheapest of the bunch. The SE grade comes in at $45,500, while the SEL has a starting MSRP of $47,450. The poshest of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 models, the Limited, costs $52,600.

All prices stated here are exclusive of licensing and registration fees, tax, incentives, and Hyundai's $1,335 Freight charge. The total cost of a fully-loaded Ioniq 5 Limited exceeds the $60,000 mark - this includes accessories, options, and fees.

Regardless of which model you select, you'll be pleased to know the Hyundai Ioniq 5 electric crossover has been blessed with a smooth ride and stellar refinement. It glides across rough surfaces with ease and is seemingly unperturbed by potholes and bumps in the tarmac. For a crossover, it handles with aplomb and can even entertain in the corners. It excels in daily driving but, if you live in a crowded area, the wide turning circle may be a source of frustration. Other than that, it's a perfectly capable EV that should prove agreeable daily.

From a standstill, the Ioniq 5 - particularly the AWD variant - is rather quick, and will startle many a sports car driver at a set of traffic lights. When the thrill of the instant electric torque delivery disappears, you're still left with a capable highway cruiser that has plenty of punch for overtaking and long-distance jaunts.

Within the burgeoning electric compact crossover segment, the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5 stands out for several reasons. It's spacious, practical, and a pleasure to drive. Aside from that, it's suitably stylish and boasts a tastefully-designed cabin packed full of technology and features.

As an electric car, it excels too. When plugged into a fast charger, the Hyundai can top up its battery from 10% to 80% in 18 minutes. That's impressive, and so is the maximum range of 303 miles (in the RWD models with the larger battery). There are a few chinks in its armor - such as the curiously small frunk area - but, aside from that, there's little to complain about. In the Ioniq 5, Hyundai has created that rare thing - a truly desirable electric crossover that isn't ridiculously expensive. If we were in the market for an Ioniq 5, we'd still have a look at the Mustang Mach-E and Kia EV6 but don't be surprised if you find yourself back at a Hyundai dealership querying ownership - there's a reason it's our 2022 CarBuzz People's Car of the Year. To summarize, it's not merely a good car - it's an excellent one.

If it were our money, we'd spring for the Ioniq 5 SEL with rear-wheel drive. This particular model offers plenty of equipment for the price and, with the RWD configuration, it offers superior range and admirable performance.

With so few options to choose from, we'd select the striking Gravity Gold paintwork to uplift the modern design. AWD brings more power, but greatly reduces range, so we'll forego this option. The Gray 2-Tone upholstery provides an illusion of more space and matches the chosen exterior color beautifully.