The Hyundai Ioniq 5’s Ebbing Appeal

The Hyundai Ioniq 5, once hailed as a game-changer in the electric vehicle market, has aged like an untested ingredient in a recipe. When it first hit the scene in 2021, its angular design and impressive charging capabilities made it stand out among its peers. However, with significant advancements in the segment since then, it’s time to reassess whether this Korean EV still holds up.

The Ioniq 5 has undergone updates, including a lifecycle refresh in early 2025 that swapped out the CCS1 port for a NACS (J3400) charge port and added a rear windshield wiper. Our test car, a range-topping 2026 Ioniq 5 AWD Limited, boasts an 84 kWh battery pack and a combined output of 320 hp thanks to its dual electric motors. This added traction comes with a trade-off: efficiency.

The EPA estimates that the AWD version has a range of 269 miles, while the rear-wheel drive variant manages a respectable 318 miles. Hyundai’s decision to prioritize performance over practicality raises concerns about the company’s priorities and willingness to sacrifice reliability for style. This dichotomy echoes through the EV market, where manufacturers are constantly balancing innovation with practicality.

The Ioniq 5’s aging act is a symptom of a larger problem – one that Hyundai needs to address if it wants to stay ahead of the curve. With its range-topping trim starting at $45,075 and an extra $3,900 for AWD capabilities, the Ioniq 5 is no longer the value proposition it once was.

The electric vehicle market has undergone a seismic shift since the Ioniq 5’s debut in 2021. New players have entered the fray, and established manufacturers are scrambling to keep up with the latest advancements. Hyundai needs to reassess its priorities – is it more important to maintain style points or deliver a reliable product that meets evolving consumer needs?

As we continue to push the boundaries of what electric vehicles can do, it’s essential to hold manufacturers accountable for their actions. The Ioniq 5 may still have its fans, but its aging act serves as a reminder that even promising products can become yesterday’s news if left unchecked.

The market will not forgive manufacturers who fail to deliver on their promises. Hyundai needs to decide whether it wants to stick with the status quo or take bold steps towards a more sustainable future – one where reliability, innovation, and practicality drive progress. With new models on the horizon and competitors nipping at its heels, Hyundai must choose between maintaining its current trajectory or embracing change.