The Spaniards are known for their temperament, while the South Koreans are more known for their affinity for high-tech. Why am I telling you this? Because the brand new Ioniq 5 electric crossover from the South Korean manufacturer Hyundai combines both in its first test in Spain: blazing temperament and state-of-the-art technology.
But first things first: Ioniq 5 is the name of the first model on Hyundai’s new electric platform E-GMP, on which all new electric vehicles made in Korea will be based in the future. The Ioniq 5 has nothing in common with the aging Hyundai Ioniq.
Four drives, two batteries
The modular platform ensures that the 4.65 meter long crossover will be available with four drives and with two battery sizes: rear-wheel or all-wheel drive with 170 to 305 hp (125 to 225 kW) and a 58 or 72 kWh battery .
As hot as the sun burns from the Spanish sky in Valencia, the Ioniq 5 is so cool: I already liked the crossover in pictures, which competes directly against Skoda Enyaq, VW ID.4 or Tesla Model Y with the increased ground clearance. In reality, it almost looks even more chic: the angular LED light signature and the clear, sharp lines make me say “Wow!” slide over the lips.
It’s really fun
We drive the top model with 305 hp and 4×4. First stop at traffic lights, first time tension in the air: Can it do what? A clear answer: And whether it can do anything! The kickdown gets almost 2.2 tons going, theoretically 100 km / h is already reached after 5.2 seconds. Years ago these were sports car values.
When it comes to the drive, there is always a real fire under the (optional) solar roof. When I quickly scratch a curve, however, I quickly notice that the Ioniq 5 is not necessarily designed for everyday Schumis, but rather for young families and people who are new to electronics. The chassis is designed with emphasis on comfort, which I notice with the airy rebound behind bumps. So the Ioniq 5 is not a sports car – but it is still a lot of fun.
Charge like at Porsche
After the quick test round in Spain, it is time for me and the Ioniq: time for a siesta. I have a coffee, the car taps with its 800-volt technology – like a Porsche Taycan – theoretically with up to 220 kW of electricity, so that the battery is filled from 10 to 80 percent in 18 minutes. With a fully charged battery, the Ioniq 5 manages at least 360 kilometers (58 kWh battery, 4×4), according to the WLTP it is up to 481 kilometers (72 kWh battery, rear). At the beginning of the test drive, the display in “my” Hyundai showed around 400 kilometers.
While the Hyundai is charging, I take a close look at the interior. What strikes me: The Ioniq 5 doesn’t smell like Hyundai, as I sometimes know from other models. This is due to a lot of sustainable materials that not only improve the ecological balance, but also make the interior pleasantly bright.
Inside becomes living space
According to Hyundai, I’m not just in an indoor space here, but in a living room. A three-meter wheelbase provides enough space (trunk 527–1587 l) that the driver and front passenger seats can be placed completely horizontally, which means I can take a short nap.
I also like what I see in other ways: ultra-modern 12-inch double screen with futuristically reduced display and standard head-up display with augmented reality. In practice, the Ioniq 5 projects directional arrows into the field of view. Small flaw: The display could be clearer in sunshine. The navigation system also confuses me here and there with rather imprecise directions.
Inexpensive, not cheap
What else? Countless assistance systems including a new emergency brake at intersection: check. Another 57 liters of storage space under the front hood: check. Towable weight up to 1600 kilos: check. Problem-free smartphone integration and induction charging station: check. The question of price remains. The crossover is not super cheap, but it is always inexpensive for what is on offer: With a small battery and rear-wheel drive from 44,900 francs. The top model driven in full equipment 63,900 francs. Market launch is in August – we look forward to seeing you again!