Hyundai has made it clear – they are going to be aggressive in the electric vehicle field. The expectation to launch 11 new electric models over the next decade or so is a massive leap forward and requires a new mindset for the company.

They’ve already made a step in the right direction, with the introduction of the Hyundai IONIQ 5 for the 2022 model year. Hyundai isn’t resting on their laurels though – they’ve got more IONIQ models coming to join it. A year into its lifespan, the 2023 Hyundai IONIQ 5 carries over from 2022.

Performance Features

The highlight of the 2023 Hyundai IONIQ 5 is, of course, the electric powertrain. The Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor provides a power output of 225 horsepower in rear-wheel drive models, and 320 horsepower in all-wheel drive models. This is thanks to the secondary motor in the all-wheel drive models that tops off the primary motor. This also provides for incredible amounts of torque – while the 258 lb-ft from the rear-wheel drive is impressive, the 446 lb-ft of torque in the all-wheel drive provides for blistering acceleration.

Range and charging time are the major performance measures for EVs, and the IONIQ 5 shines in both of these. Rear-wheel drive models offer right around 300 miles of range when fully charged, while all-wheel drive versions offer approximately 256 miles starting at full charge. To get to full charge, the IONIQ 5 utilizes a standard Level II 240V charging system and can go from 10% charge to 100% charge in only 6 hours and 43 minutes. The ultra-fast charger that is included can handle next-generation rapid charging, including 400 V and 800V – these provide for charging times from 10% to 80% of 25 minutes and 18 minutes respectively. This prepares the IONIQ 5 to take advantage of the step-ups in EV charging infrastructure that is on the horizon.

Style and Technology

A unique, angular exterior appearance certainly sets the 2023 Hyundai IONIQ 5 apart from the pack. Heated, body-color mirrors are standard across the lineup, to keep them clear of ice in poor conditions. 19-inch wheels are standard, with 20-inch wheels optional, and these larger wheels really make the IONIQ stand out on the road, helping to add to its slightly futuristic appearance.

Inside, seating for five comes as stain-resistant cloth standard, with H-Tex Leatherette used on the higher trim levels. The seats are roomy – even the second row offers 39.4 inches of legroom along with 38.7 inches of head room. This translates well to cargo capacity, with 27.2 cubic feet behind the second row or up to 59.3 cubic feet with the second row of seats stowed. The multi-function steering wheel is leather-wrapped, and on higher trim levels it has heating for cold winter months. Heated front seats are standard on all trim levels, while ventilation is optional. Proximity key entry with push button start makes it easy to get in the IONIQ and get on the road, and is standard across all models.

All IONIQ 5 models come with 12.3-inch central touch screens featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration as standard. Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio is standard, with Multiple Device Connection for up to two devices at the same time. Dynamic voice recognition makes it easy to issue commands without taking your eyes off the road ahead. A six-speaker audio system and onboard Navigation is standard on all models, while a Bose premium audio system with external amplifier and 8 speakers is available on the top trim.

Safety

Every year seems to bring more and more driver assistance features and technology to market, and the 2023 Hyundai IONIQ 5 takes full advantage of the systems available today. A rearview monitor with parking guidance is standard across the model range. An array of assistance features includes Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Car/Pedestrian/Cyclist Detection and Junction Turning, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA), Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Lane Following Assist (LFA), Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, Driver Attention Warning (DAW), and Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with Stop & Go all as standard. Safe Exit Assist and Rear Occupant Alert both add to passenger safety for busy families, and are especially useful for drivers with small children and pets. Select from Highway Driving Assist I or Highway Driving Assist II for different levels of semi-autonomous highway driving.

Trim Levels

Three trim levels mean that IONIQ 5 buyers have a fair amount of choice. All three trim levels can be paired with rear- or all-wheel drive, depending on what the buyer is looking for.

Starting at the SE level, you get all the standard features mentioned. This includes the fabric seating for five with 8-way power adjustability for the driver. Heated front seats are standard, as are five USB ports in all – 1 front data, 2 front charging, and 2 rear charging points. Dual automatic temperature control allows front seat occupants to adjust climate controls to meet their temperature requirements. The 12.3-inch HD Touchscreen navigation system features HD Radio and SiriusXM with a 3-month trial subscription and Rearview Monitor.

Taking the next step up, the SEL trim offers great value, adding in plenty of comforts and features while keeping the price tag as low as it can. On top of the standard features on the SE, this trim adds premium LED front accent lighting and power-folding side mirrors outside. Most important for many busy drivers, this trim level includes a hands-free smart liftgate with auto-open, for easy loading and unloading of cargo! The interior features the leatherette seating, HVAC vents for second-row passengers, and Qi-compatible wireless device charging so you don’t have as many wires throughout the cabin. A heated steering wheel is standard, while ambient 64-color door trim lighting offers a hint of luxury.

At the top of the IONIQ 5 lineup is the Limited trim, featuring everything standard on the SEL and then some. This trim includes the Vision Roof, a top that gives the interior a sense of openness thanks to consisting of one large glass panel without cross members, as well as premium exterior accents. A Surround View Monitor and Blind-Spot View Monitor provide the driver with complete visibility around the vehicle. Remote Smart Park Assist, which utilizes these monitors and sensors, is standard as well. The SEL trim also has the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function standard, allowing it to serve as a charger on wheels. It can be used to power necessities during a power outage, run electric appliances at a tailgate – or even transfer charge to another stranded EV to help them get to a nearby charge point! The front seats are heated and ventilated, and the passenger seat receives 8-way power adjustability as standard while the driver gets Integrated Memory and the Relaxation function. Topping it all off is the Bose premium audio system.