The Hyundai IONIQ 5 is not just another electric vehicle; it’s a bold statement from Hyundai, blending futuristic innovation with a nod to the past. Launched globally in 2021 and introduced in India at the Auto Expo 2023, this compact crossover SUV marks Hyundai’s first foray into its dedicated electric sub-brand, IONIQ. Built on the Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the IONIQ 5 offers a unique combination of striking design, spacious interiors, rapid charging capabilities, and eco-friendly engineering. Its retro-modern aesthetic, inspired by the 1970s Hyundai Pony, features sharp lines, pixelated LED lights, and a minimalist yet high-tech appeal that sets it apart in the crowded EV market.
In India, the IONIQ 5 has quickly gained attention as Hyundai’s flagship electric offering, positioned above the Kona Electric. With a claimed range of 631 km (ARAI-certified), it caters to urban commuters and long-distance travelers alike, promising a seamless transition to electric mobility. The vehicle’s spacious cabin, premium features, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) make it a compelling choice for buyers seeking a blend of practicality, luxury, and sustainability. Available in a single, fully-loaded variant in India, the IONIQ 5 competes with premium EVs like the Kia EV6, BYD Seal, and Volvo XC40 Recharge, while also offering an alternative to luxury models like the BMW i4. This detailed exploration covers its technical prowess, pricing, variants, and how it stacks up against its rivals.
Technical Specifications
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 is engineered for performance, efficiency, and comfort. Below is a tabular representation of its technical specifications, compiled from CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale, ensuring accuracy as of March 11, 2025.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | Single Electric Motor (Rear-Wheel Drive) |
| Power Output | 214.56 bhp (217 PS) |
| Torque | 350 Nm |
| Battery Capacity | 72.6 kWh Lithium-Ion |
| Range (ARAI) | 631 km |
| Real-World Range | Approximately 480-550 km (user-reported) |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Automatic |
| Top Speed | 185 kmph |
| 0-100 kmph | 7.6 seconds (claimed) |
| Charging Options | 11 kW AC (6h 55min, 0-100%), 350 kW DC (18min, 10-80%) |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 4635 mm x 1890 mm x 1625 mm |
| Wheelbase | 3000 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 163 mm |
| Kerb Weight | Approximately 1910 kg |
| Boot Space | 527 L (expandable to 1587 L with rear seats folded) |
| Frunk Space | 57 L (RWD, non-North America); 24 L (AWD/North America) |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Tyre Size | 255/45 R20 (20-inch alloy wheels) |
| Suspension (Front/Rear) | McPherson Strut / Multi-Link |
| Brakes (Front/Rear) | Disc / Disc |
| Safety Features | 6 Airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, ADAS (Level 2), ISOFIX |
These specifications highlight the IONIQ 5’s capability as a high-performance EV with a focus on range, charging speed, and safety, tailored to meet the demands of modern driving.
Variants
In India, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 is offered in a single variant, unlike its global lineup, which includes multiple configurations. Below is a table summarizing the variant available in India as of March 2025.
| Variant | Description |
|---|---|
| IONIQ 5 Long Range RWD | Fully-loaded, single motor, rear-wheel drive, 72.6 kWh battery, 631 km range |
Globally, the IONIQ 5 comes in additional variants, such as the Standard Range (63 kWh battery) and dual-motor AWD options (up to 325 bhp), but in India, Hyundai has opted for a streamlined, premium offering. The single variant simplifies the buying decision, bundling all available features into one package, including Level 2 ADAS, a panoramic sunroof, and ventilated seats.
Price in Metro Cities
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 is priced competitively for a premium EV, with slight variations across metro cities due to registration, insurance, and local taxes. Below is a table of its on-road prices in major Indian metro cities, based on data from CarDekho and ZigWheels as of March 2025.
| City | On-Road Price (INR) |
|---|---|
| New Delhi | ₹ 48.48 Lakh |
| Mumbai | ₹ 49.00 Lakh |
| Bengaluru | ₹ 49.50 Lakh |
| Chennai | ₹ 49.20 Lakh |
| Kolkata | ₹ 48.80 Lakh |
Note: Prices are approximate and subject to change based on dealer offers, state subsidies, and additional accessories. Hyundai has occasionally offered discounts (e.g., up to ₹ 2 lakh in December 2024), so prospective buyers should check with local dealerships for the latest promotions.
About the Hyundai IONIQ 5
Design and Aesthetics
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 stands out with its retro-modern design, a fusion of sharp, angular lines and a sleek, minimalist profile. Drawing inspiration from the Hyundai 45 EV Concept and the original Pony, it features Parametric Pixel LED headlamps and taillights, giving it a distinctive, tech-forward look. The clamshell hood spans the vehicle’s width, reducing panel gaps for a clean, aerodynamic silhouette, while flush-fitting door handles enhance its futuristic appeal. Available in four monotone colors in India—Gravity Gold Matte, Optic White, Midnight Black Pearl, and Titan Grey—the IONIQ 5 turns heads wherever it goes. Its 20-inch alloy wheels, though stylish, contribute to a slightly firm ride at low speeds, a trade-off for its bold stance.
The vehicle’s proportions are deceptive; at 4635 mm long, it’s larger than the Hyundai Tucson, yet its hatchback-like silhouette masks its SUV credentials. The long 3000 mm wheelbase, enabled by the E-GMP platform, creates a flat floor and maximizes interior space, making it feel more like a lounge than a traditional car cabin.
Interior and Features
Step inside the IONIQ 5, and you’re greeted by a spacious, tech-laden cabin crafted with sustainability in mind. The interior uses eco-friendly materials, such as recycled PET bottles and bio-paints, reflecting Hyundai’s commitment to green mobility. The dual 12.3-inch screens—one for the infotainment system and one for the driver’s display—form a seamless, futuristic dashboard under a single glass panel. A sliding center console, dubbed the Universal Island, can move 140 mm to enhance accessibility for front and rear passengers, a unique feature born from the E-GMP’s flat-floor design.
The cabin offers premium comfort with ventilated and heated front seats, complete with leg rests, and electrically adjustable rear seats that slide and recline. The panoramic sunroof adds a sense of openness, while the Bose 8-speaker sound system delivers crisp audio. Other highlights include Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, allowing the car to power external devices up to 3.6 kW, and a wireless phone charger. However, the seats could offer better under-thigh support, a minor critique in an otherwise well-executed interior.
Safety is paramount, with 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, and ISOFIX mounts as standard. The inclusion of Level 2 ADAS—featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision avoidance—elevates its safety credentials, making it a standout in its segment.
Performance and Driving Experience
The IONIQ 5’s single rear-mounted electric motor delivers 214.56 bhp and 350 Nm of torque, powering the rear wheels for a smooth, responsive drive. Its instantaneous acceleration (0-100 kmph in 7.6 seconds) and low center of gravity, courtesy of the skateboard platform, ensure stable handling and spirited performance. The steering, while light in Eco mode, firms up in Sport mode, though it lacks the sharpness of some competitors. Paddle shifters allow adjustable regenerative braking, even enabling one-pedal driving—a boon in city traffic.
The ride quality is generally comfortable, thanks to the McPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension, but the 20-inch wheels with 45-aspect tires can make low-speed rides over uneven roads feel busy. On highways, however, the IONIQ 5 shines, offering a quiet, refined experience with a top speed of 185 kmph. Its 631 km ARAI range translates to a real-world range of around 480-550 km, depending on driving conditions, making it practical for both urban commutes and longer journeys.
Charging and Efficiency
Charging is where the IONIQ 5 excels. Its 800V architecture supports ultra-fast charging, with a 350 kW DC charger taking the battery from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes—among the quickest in its class. A more common 11 kW AC charger fully charges it in 6 hours 55 minutes, ideal for overnight home charging. Hyundai includes an 11 kW AC charger with the purchase in India, enhancing convenience. The V2L feature adds versatility, turning the car into a mobile power source for appliances or even other EVs, a rare and innovative touch.
Practicality and Space
With a boot space of 527 liters (expandable to 1587 liters with seats folded) and a small 57-liter frunk (front trunk), the IONIQ 5 offers decent cargo capacity, though it trails behind rivals like the Skoda Enyaq (585 liters). The flat floor and long wheelbase provide exceptional legroom and headroom, comfortably seating five adults. The sliding rear seats and walkthrough cabin design enhance flexibility, making it a practical family vehicle despite its hatchback-like exterior.
Market Positioning and Ownership Experience
Priced between ₹ 48.48 lakh and ₹ 49.50 lakh (on-road) in metro cities, the IONIQ 5 occupies a sweet spot in the premium EV segment. It lacks the badge appeal of luxury brands like BMW or Volvo but compensates with superior space, technology, and range at a lower cost. Hyundai’s extensive service network in India ensures easier maintenance compared to some rivals, though EV servicing costs and infrastructure availability remain considerations for buyers outside major cities.
Close Competitors
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 faces stiff competition in India’s premium EV market. Here’s how it compares to its closest rivals:
Kia EV6
- Price: ₹ 60.97 lakh – ₹ 65.97 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Range: 708 km (ARAI)
- Power: 229 bhp (RWD) / 325 bhp (AWD)
- Comparison: Sharing the E-GMP platform, the Kia EV6 offers a higher range and dual-motor AWD options, appealing to performance enthusiasts. However, it’s significantly pricier and lacks the IONIQ 5’s retro charm and V2L versatility.
BYD Seal
- Price: ₹ 41.00 lakh – ₹ 53.00 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Range: 510-650 km (ARAI, variant-dependent)
- Power: 204-308 bhp
- Comparison: The BYD Seal undercuts the IONIQ 5 in base pricing and offers competitive range and power. Its sedan body style contrasts with the IONIQ 5’s SUV practicality, and it lacks the same level of interior tech and ADAS features.
Volvo XC40 Recharge
- Price: ₹ 57.90 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Range: 592 km (ARAI)
- Power: 408 bhp (AWD)
- Comparison: The Volvo XC40 Recharge brings premium branding and superior power, but its higher price and smaller cabin space make the IONIQ 5 a more practical choice for families. Charging speeds are slower than the IONIQ 5’s 350 kW capability.
BMW i4
- Price: ₹ 72.50 lakh – ₹ 77.50 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Range: 590 km (WLTP)
- Power: 340 bhp
- Comparison: The BMW i4, a luxury electric sedan, offers badge value and dynamic handling but comes at a steep premium. The IONIQ 5 counters with better range, faster charging, and SUV versatility.
Final Thoughts!
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 is a game-changer in the EV space, blending bold design, cutting-edge technology, and practical performance into a package that’s hard to ignore. Its retro-modern styling, spacious interiors, and ultra-fast charging make it a standout, even if it sacrifices some agility and boot space compared to rivals. Priced competitively in metro cities, it offers exceptional value for buyers willing to forgo luxury badges for substance. Against competitors like the Kia EV6, BYD Seal, and Volvo XC40 Recharge, the IONIQ 5 holds its own with a unique identity and a focus on sustainability and innovation. For those eyeing a premium electric SUV in 2025, the IONIQ 5 is a compelling choice that promises to redefine electric mobility in India.
