Hey guys! Today, we’re diving deep into the Hyundai Ioniq 5 review in Australia. This electric vehicle (EV) has been making waves, and we’re here to tell you if it lives up to the hype. Buckle up as we explore everything from its striking design and impressive range to its cutting-edge technology and overall driving experience. Is the Ioniq 5 the best EV you can buy in Australia right now? Let’s find out!

Overview of the Hyundai Ioniq 5

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 isn't just another EV; it's a bold statement from Hyundai, signaling their commitment to the future of electric mobility. This car stands out with its retro-futuristic design, which blends sharp lines and pixel-like lighting elements to create a unique and eye-catching aesthetic. But it's not just about looks; the Ioniq 5 is packed with innovative features and technology that make it a compelling option for anyone considering an EV. From its ultra-fast charging capabilities to its spacious and tech-filled interior, the Ioniq 5 aims to deliver a premium electric driving experience. In Australia, where the demand for EVs is growing rapidly, the Ioniq 5 has quickly become a popular choice, thanks to its combination of style, performance, and practicality. As we delve deeper into this review, we'll examine each aspect of the Ioniq 5 to help you decide if it's the right EV for your needs.

Exterior Design

The exterior design of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is undoubtedly one of its most distinctive features. It's a masterclass in retro-futurism, combining elements of classic hatchbacks with a modern, almost robotic aesthetic. The sharp creases, clean surfaces, and distinctive pixel-inspired LED lighting give the Ioniq 5 a unique road presence that's hard to ignore. The clamshell hood and flush door handles add to the sleekness, while the bold wheel arches give it a planted, confident stance. Available in a range of eye-catching colors, the Ioniq 5 allows you to express your personality and style. But it's not just about looks; the exterior design also contributes to the car's aerodynamic efficiency, helping to maximize its range. Overall, the Ioniq 5's exterior design is a perfect blend of form and function, making it one of the most visually appealing EVs on the market. Whether you're a fan of its retro-inspired details or its modern, futuristic touches, the Ioniq 5 is sure to turn heads wherever you go. It's a design that sparks conversation and sets it apart from the more conventional EVs on the road. The attention to detail is evident in every line and curve, making it a true standout in the crowded EV market.

Interior and Technology

Stepping inside the Hyundai Ioniq 5, you're greeted with a spacious and minimalist interior that feels both modern and inviting. The flat floor, thanks to the EV-specific platform, creates a sense of openness and allows for plenty of legroom for both front and rear passengers. The dashboard is dominated by two large 12.3-inch screens – one for the instrument cluster and one for the infotainment system – which are seamlessly integrated into a single panel. The infotainment system is intuitive and responsive, with crisp graphics and a user-friendly interface. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to easily connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps. The Ioniq 5 also comes with a range of advanced technology features, including a head-up display, a 360-degree camera, and Hyundai's SmartSense suite of safety features. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking, among others. The seats are comfortable and supportive, and the use of sustainable materials throughout the cabin adds to the car's eco-friendly credentials. Overall, the interior of the Ioniq 5 is a comfortable, stylish, and tech-filled space that enhances the overall driving experience. It's a place where you can relax and enjoy the ride, surrounded by cutting-edge technology and sustainable materials. The attention to detail and the quality of the materials used create a premium feel that rivals more expensive EVs on the market.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance and handling, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 doesn't disappoint. It's available in both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, with the latter offering more power and quicker acceleration. The electric motors provide instant torque, resulting in brisk acceleration and a responsive driving experience. The Ioniq 5 feels planted and stable on the road, thanks to its low center of gravity and well-tuned suspension. The steering is precise and provides good feedback, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. In terms of ride quality, the Ioniq 5 strikes a good balance between comfort and control. It absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road with ease, while still providing a confident and engaging driving experience. The regenerative braking system allows you to slow down the car using the electric motor, which helps to recharge the battery and extend the range. You can adjust the level of regenerative braking to suit your preferences, from minimal assistance to full one-pedal driving. Overall, the Ioniq 5 is a fun and engaging EV to drive, with plenty of power, responsive handling, and a comfortable ride. Whether you're commuting in the city or cruising on the open road, the Ioniq 5 delivers a smooth and enjoyable driving experience. The instant torque and quiet operation of the electric motor make it a joy to drive, and the regenerative braking system helps to maximize efficiency and extend the range.

Range and Charging

One of the most important factors to consider when buying an EV is its range and charging capabilities. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 offers a competitive range, with the long-range battery version providing up to 451 km (WLTP) on a single charge. This is more than enough for most daily commutes and weekend trips. The Ioniq 5 also supports ultra-fast charging, thanks to its 800V architecture. This means that you can charge the battery from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes using a 350kW DC fast charger. This is significantly faster than most other EVs on the market, making the Ioniq 5 a great option for long-distance travel. If you're charging at home using a standard AC charger, it will take longer to fully charge the battery – typically around 6-7 hours. However, you can schedule your charging to take advantage of off-peak electricity rates, which can save you money. The Ioniq 5 also comes with a vehicle-to-load (V2L) function, which allows you to use the car's battery to power external devices, such as laptops, camping equipment, or even other EVs. This is a unique and useful feature that sets the Ioniq 5 apart from its competitors. Overall, the Ioniq 5 offers a good balance of range and charging speed, making it a practical and convenient EV for everyday use. The ultra-fast charging capability is a game-changer, allowing you to quickly replenish the battery on long journeys and minimize downtime.

Hyundai Ioniq 5 Australian Pricing and Variants

In Australia, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is available in several variants, each offering a different combination of features and performance. The entry-level model is the rear-wheel-drive version with the standard range battery, while the top-of-the-line model is the all-wheel-drive version with the long-range battery. Prices start at around $70,000 AUD for the base model and can go up to $85,000 AUD for the top-spec version. It's worth noting that these prices may vary depending on your location and any government incentives that are available. When considering which variant to choose, it's important to think about your needs and budget. If you primarily use the car for commuting in the city, the rear-wheel-drive version with the standard range battery may be sufficient. However, if you plan on taking longer trips or want the added performance of all-wheel drive, the long-range battery version is the better option. It's also worth considering the features that are important to you, such as the head-up display, 360-degree camera, and premium audio system. These features are typically only available on the higher-spec models. Overall, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 offers a good range of variants to suit different needs and budgets. It's important to do your research and compare the different models to find the one that's right for you. The pricing is competitive compared to other EVs on the market, and the Ioniq 5 offers a good value for money.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced perspective, let's break down the pros and cons of the Hyundai Ioniq 5:

Pros:

• Striking and unique exterior design
• Spacious and comfortable interior
• Tech-filled cabin with advanced features
• Fast charging capabilities
• Good range for everyday use
• Fun and engaging driving experience
• Vehicle-to-load (V2L) function

Cons:

• Relatively high price compared to some other EVs
• Some may find the retro-futuristic design polarizing
• Limited availability in some areas
• Charging infrastructure still needs improvement in certain regions

Final Verdict: Is the Hyundai Ioniq 5 the Best EV in Australia?

So, after taking a close look at the Hyundai Ioniq 5, the big question remains: is it the best EV in Australia? Well, it's certainly a strong contender. The Ioniq 5 offers a unique combination of style, performance, technology, and practicality that sets it apart from the competition. Its striking design, spacious interior, and fast charging capabilities make it a joy to own and drive. However, it's not without its drawbacks. The price is relatively high, and the availability can be limited in some areas. Ultimately, the best EV for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. But if you're looking for a stylish, tech-filled, and practical EV that offers a great driving experience, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is definitely worth considering. It's a game-changer in the EV market and a sign of things to come. So, go ahead and take it for a test drive – you might just fall in love!