It’s rare for a long-term test car to be this difficult to part with, but the Hyundai Ioniq 5 isn’t your average EV. Over six months, this 2024 Autocar Car of the Year not only turned heads with its sci-fi design but also proved to be an everyday hero packed with real-world usability, thoughtful ergonomics, and top-tier ride comfort.
Design That Demands Attention
The first thing that strikes you about the Ioniq 5 is its bold, pixelated LED lights, origami-like creases, and retro-futuristic silhouette – as if it’s driven straight out of Blade Runner. But its charm doesn’t end with curb appeal.
Step inside and you’ll find a cabin that feels more like a production-ready concept car. The flat floor, thanks to Hyundai’s dedicated E-GMP skateboard platform, creates a lounge-like ambience. The sliding central console is more than a gimmick; it’s practical. In tight spots, the ability to move across from the passenger side is a game-changer.
Thoughtful Cabin Design
What truly elevates the experience is the smart, intuitive layout. Unlike many new EVs where usability suffers due to screen overload, the Ioniq 5 balances digital with physical controls perfectly. The touchscreen is crisp, menus are straightforward, and buttons are placed exactly where you expect them.
Compared to some Indian EVs with clunky UIs and confusing ergonomics, Hyundai’s execution feels mature and elegant.
Ride and Handling: Luxury-Class Comfort
On the road, the Ioniq 5 delivers a ride quality rivaling luxury EVs. It glides effortlessly over potholes and undulations, yet maintains tight body control. It doesn’t float or bounce – in fact, it feels better sorted than some Mercedes-Benz electric SUVs.
Despite its plush comfort, the handling remains composed and confidence-inspiring.
Performance & Range: Smart and Efficient
Powered by a 217hp motor, the Ioniq 5 offers brisk acceleration. More importantly, it manages power delivery with finesse. The regenerative braking is among the best tuned in the segment, offering multiple levels and a one-pedal drive mode that feels natural and responsive.
One standout is the seamless transition between regen and friction braking, offering precise and predictable pedal feel – something many premium EVs still struggle with.
Real-World Range Test – Mahabaleshwar Drive:
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Start: Full charge with ~400km range
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After 180km: 225km range remaining, 56% SoC
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Final climb (Sport Mode, 40km): Used 119km of range, 27% SoC
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Finish: 29% SoC left (~100km range)
This level of range accuracy and predictability is rare and reassuring.
Charging & Practicality
While charging speed depends on location, the Ioniq 5 manages expectations well. In Mahabaleshwar, a slow 15A plug took 19 hours to charge – but that wasn’t a deal-breaker for a relaxed getaway.
For longer trips, the ample boot space, exceptional comfort, and genuine long-range ability make it an ideal road trip companion.
Minor Drawbacks
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City driving can be tricky due to its width and long 3,000mm wheelbase.
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No rear-wheel steering, which affects tight-space manoeuvrability.
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White seats, while luxurious, are hard to keep clean.
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The central shelf lacks illumination, making it inconvenient at night.
However, these are minor compromises in what is otherwise a thoughtfully engineered EV.
Final Verdict
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is not just futuristic in form – it’s functionally brilliant too. With class-leading ride comfort, mature tech integration, and dependable range, it’s one of the most well-rounded EVs available in India today. Whether you're a first-time EV buyer or a seasoned enthusiast, this car offers style, substance, and serenity in equal measure.
