This week I was in the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 LR AWD and it helped to slowly win me over to the electric vehicle lifestyle.
Admittedly, I am not a fan given the perceived inconvenience of having to depend on chargers with the need to commit to the prolonged time needed to then charge.
However, I would discover how many chargers there are around town and the perks that using some of them offers. Of which includes the ability to just pay for the charging and not to park. Although there are penalties attached to this, like lingering long after the vehicle is at 100% fully charged; or staying longer than the allotted two hour limit.
I appreciated that despite the level of charger type, the Ioniq 5 is quick to charge. With my regular schedule I was able to find stations and keep the battery life at above 85% at all times. Which helped with my anxiety of not having enough to get where I need to and back; and to not have to sit and wait for a charger to be free.
Although, despite the amount of money I saved at the pumps, I lost so much more in time and convenience. Thankfully, I got over 600km+ with the Ioniq on a full charge to spare myself much of this time and the trouble.
The design of the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 is modern with hidden door handles that pop out at the ends, to be able to grip on to and pull open. Aside from this, the vehicle feels standard with push button start and stop, twist knob gear change, and electronic seat adjustments.
There was plenty of lumbar support with the front seats and even the ability kick your legs up with a push of the button, but only when the car is in park. To lounge or to fully recline, to be able to best take in the view from out of the moon roof, a clear pane of glass.
I liked the floating island centre console with wireless charger and cup holders at arm’s reach. This was like a throne for your belongings, with the armrest and its shallow bin just behind it. At a little more awkward positioning is the c-cable port with cave-like bin. At ankle height, this was less assessable.
Not only is the speed and lane proximity broadcasted on the windshield, but also your map synced driving directions and the song choice when you skip track. Which is more than most.
As for the way it handled, this was an easy drive with little learning to be done. Speedy and zippy with its compact size and responsive steering and smooth breaks. The Hyundai also had a quiet cabin that self dries and neutralizes odours after you turn it off and walk away. Overall, this is a great everyday driver and one I would be happy to call my own.
