The Hyundai Ioniq and Ioniq 5 represent Hyundai's significant push into the electric vehicle (EV) market. While both carry the "Ioniq" name, they are fundamentally different vehicles. Understanding these differences is crucial for anyone considering an electric Hyundai. This article will provide a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision.
The Ioniq was Hyundai's first dedicated electrified model, offered in hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and all-electric versions. The Ioniq 5, on the other hand, is a dedicated all-electric crossover SUV built on Hyundai's new Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). Let's delve into the details.
| Feature | Hyundai Ioniq (Electric Model) | Hyundai Ioniq 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Body Style | Hatchback | Crossover SUV |
| Platform | Traditional Vehicle Platform | E-GMP (Electric-Global Modular Platform) |
| Battery Capacity (kWh) | 38.3 kWh | 58 kWh or 77.4 kWh |
| EPA-Estimated Range | 170 miles | 220-303 miles |
| Charging Time (240V) | Approx. 6 hours | Approx. 6-7 hours (77.4 kWh) |
| DC Fast Charging | Up to 100 kW | Up to 235 kW |
| DC Fast Charging (10-80%) | ~54 minutes | ~18 minutes |
| Horsepower | 134 hp | 168-320 hp |
| Drivetrain | FWD | RWD or AWD |
| 0-60 mph (est.) | ~8.5 seconds | 5.1-8.5 seconds |
| Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) | No | Yes |
| Exterior Design | Conventional hatchback design | Retro-futuristic crossover design |
| Interior Design | Conventional interior design | Minimalist, spacious interior |
| Rear Passenger Space | Limited | Significantly more spacious |
| Cargo Space | 23 cubic feet (rear seats up) | 27.2 cubic feet (rear seats up) |
| Wheelbase | 106.3 inches | 118.1 inches |
| Length | 176.6 inches | 182.5 inches |
| Width | 71.7 inches | 74.4 inches |
| Height | 56.5 inches | 63.0 inches |
| Suspension | MacPherson Strut Front, Multi-Link Rear | MacPherson Strut Front, Multi-Link Rear |
| Technology Features | Basic infotainment system | Advanced infotainment system, dual 12.3-inch screens |
| Driver Assistance Features | Basic ADAS features | Advanced ADAS features including Highway Driving Assist II |
| Production Years | 2017-2022 (Electric model) | 2022-Present |
| Starting Price (MSRP) | Discontinued | ~$41,800 |
| Available Incentives | Varies based on location and year | Varies based on location and year |
Detailed Explanations
Body Style: The Ioniq (electric version) is a traditional hatchback. This means it has a sloping rear roofline and a liftgate that opens to access the cargo area. The Ioniq 5, on the other hand, is a crossover SUV. Crossovers typically have a higher ride height, more ground clearance, and a more boxy shape compared to hatchbacks, offering a blend of SUV and car characteristics.
Platform: The Hyundai Ioniq was built on a platform designed for multiple powertrain options, including hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric. This means it wasn't specifically optimized for electric vehicle performance. The Ioniq 5 uses Hyundai's dedicated Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). This platform is designed solely for electric vehicles and allows for greater flexibility in design, battery placement, and performance optimization. The E-GMP platform is designed to support 800V charging systems, allowing for faster charging times.
Battery Capacity (kWh): The Ioniq Electric came with a 38.3 kWh battery pack. The Ioniq 5 offers two battery options: a standard 58 kWh pack and a long-range 77.4 kWh pack. A larger battery pack translates to a longer driving range.
EPA-Estimated Range: The Ioniq Electric had an EPA-estimated range of 170 miles. The Ioniq 5's range varies depending on the battery pack and drivetrain configuration. The standard range model is estimated at 220 miles, while the long-range model achieves up to 303 miles.
Charging Time (240V): Charging the Ioniq Electric on a 240V Level 2 charger takes approximately 6 hours. The Ioniq 5 takes approximately 6-7 hours to charge on a 240V Level 2 charger with the 77.4 kWh battery. Charging times can vary based on the amperage of the charging unit and the starting charge level of the battery.
DC Fast Charging: The Ioniq Electric supports DC fast charging up to 100 kW. The Ioniq 5 boasts significantly faster DC fast charging capabilities, supporting up to 235 kW. This higher charging rate allows for much quicker replenishment of the battery.
DC Fast Charging (10-80%): Charging the Ioniq Electric from 10% to 80% using a DC fast charger takes approximately 54 minutes. The Ioniq 5 can achieve the same 10-80% charge in approximately 18 minutes when connected to a compatible 350kW DC fast charger. This is a significant advantage for drivers who frequently rely on public charging stations.
Horsepower: The Ioniq Electric produces 134 horsepower. The Ioniq 5's power output varies depending on the configuration. The rear-wheel-drive (RWD) models produce 168-225 horsepower, while the all-wheel-drive (AWD) models deliver up to 320 horsepower.
Drivetrain: The Ioniq Electric is only available with front-wheel drive (FWD). The Ioniq 5 offers both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) options. AWD provides enhanced traction and stability, particularly in inclement weather conditions.
0-60 mph (est.): The Ioniq Electric accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 8.5 seconds. The Ioniq 5's acceleration time varies depending on the drivetrain and battery configuration. The quickest AWD models can achieve 0-60 mph in around 5.1 seconds, while the RWD models take around 8.5 seconds.
Vehicle-to-Load (V2L): The Ioniq Electric does not have Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability. The Ioniq 5 features V2L, which allows the car to supply power to external devices or appliances. This can be useful for camping, outdoor activities, or emergency situations.
Exterior Design: The Ioniq Electric has a more conventional hatchback design, blending in with other cars on the road. The Ioniq 5 sports a distinctive retro-futuristic design, characterized by its sharp lines, pixelated lighting, and clamshell hood. Its unique styling makes it stand out from the crowd.
Interior Design: The Ioniq Electric's interior is functional but somewhat dated in terms of design and materials. The Ioniq 5 features a minimalist and spacious interior with a focus on sustainable materials and a clean, modern aesthetic. The flat floor design enhances passenger comfort and maximizes legroom.
Rear Passenger Space: The Ioniq Electric offers adequate rear passenger space, but it can feel somewhat cramped for taller adults. The Ioniq 5 provides significantly more rear passenger space due to its longer wheelbase and dedicated EV platform. The flat floor design also contributes to a more comfortable experience.
Cargo Space: The Ioniq Electric offers 23 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up. The Ioniq 5 provides 27.2 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up. The Ioniq 5 also has a larger overall cargo capacity with the rear seats folded down.
Wheelbase: The Ioniq Electric has a wheelbase of 106.3 inches. The Ioniq 5 boasts a much longer wheelbase of 118.1 inches. A longer wheelbase generally translates to a smoother ride and more interior space.
Length: The Ioniq Electric has a length of 176.6 inches. The Ioniq 5 is slightly longer at 182.5 inches.
Width: The Ioniq Electric has a width of 71.7 inches. The Ioniq 5 is wider at 74.4 inches.
Height: The Ioniq Electric has a height of 56.5 inches. The Ioniq 5 is taller at 63.0 inches.
Suspension: Both the Ioniq Electric and the Ioniq 5 use a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance of comfort and handling.
Technology Features: The Ioniq Electric has a basic infotainment system with standard connectivity features. The Ioniq 5 features a more advanced infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens, over-the-air (OTA) software updates, and a range of connected services.
Driver Assistance Features: The Ioniq Electric offers basic Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) features such as lane keeping assist and automatic emergency braking. The Ioniq 5 comes with a more comprehensive suite of ADAS features, including Highway Driving Assist II, which combines adaptive cruise control and lane centering to provide semi-autonomous driving capabilities on highways.
Production Years: The Ioniq Electric was produced from 2017 to 2022. The Ioniq 5 has been in production since 2022 and is still being manufactured.
Starting Price (MSRP): The Ioniq Electric is now discontinued, but when available, its MSRP was lower than the Ioniq 5. The Ioniq 5 has a starting MSRP of around $41,800, but the price can vary depending on the trim level and options.
Available Incentives: Both vehicles are eligible for various federal, state, and local incentives, which can significantly reduce the overall cost of ownership. The availability and amount of these incentives can vary based on location and the year of purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Ioniq 5 a replacement for the Ioniq Electric? No, the Ioniq 5 is not a direct replacement. It's a completely different vehicle built on a dedicated EV platform, while the original Ioniq was a multi-powertrain vehicle.
Which car has a longer range? The Ioniq 5 offers significantly longer range, up to 303 miles, compared to the Ioniq Electric's 170 miles.
Which car charges faster? The Ioniq 5 charges much faster due to its 800V architecture, supporting up to 235 kW DC fast charging.
Does the Ioniq 5 have Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability? Yes, the Ioniq 5 has V2L, allowing it to power external devices. The Ioniq Electric does not have this feature.
Is the Ioniq 5 more spacious than the Ioniq Electric? Yes, the Ioniq 5 offers significantly more passenger and cargo space.
Conclusion
In summary, the Hyundai Ioniq and Ioniq 5 are distinct vehicles catering to different needs and preferences. The original Ioniq offered an entry point into electrification with hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric options, while the Ioniq 5 is a dedicated all-electric crossover SUV with a longer range, faster charging, more advanced technology, and a more spacious interior. If you are looking for a modern, technologically advanced EV with ample space and quick charging, the Ioniq 5 is the superior choice. However, consider your budget and needs when making your final decision.