HYUNDAI IONIQ 5
If you’re of the opinion that electric cars are dull, Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 will come as something of a revelation.
For a start, it’s a lot bigger in real life than you expect. It’s like a jumbo-sized saloon, which means it’s spacious but doesn’t feel like you’re driving a chunky SUV. This clever effect is just one of many surprises found on both the inside and outside of this Korean gem.
The driving experience is solid and smooth. It’s reasonably quick, is easy to charge and comes in a range of colour options that make it stand out in an understated way.
And as you’d expect, Hyundai hasn’t skimped on the tech front, with plenty on offer to keep you entertained and make your drive less stressful.
Central to the experience is a pair of 12.3in screens, one in the middle of the dash and the other behind the steering wheel. It’s easy for some information to get obscured on the latter, but that’s a minor gripe as the infotainment system is largely excellent.
The voice control works to great effect, and the sat-nav is serviceable and can help you find those charging points while conserving energy when you need to. There’s also a rear-view camera for parking, while the crisp porthole-style blind-spot views you get on the driver’s screen are great too – these are activated when you engage the indicator, which is a neat safety feature.
Add in Carplay and Android Auto plus wireless phone charging and a decent number of USB charging ports, and the Ioniq 5 delivers all the tech you need. Owners who opt for the Ultimate trim package also get a head-up display and a beefy Bose sound system.
Special mention should go to the optional front ‘relaxation seats’, which are heated and cooled, with memory options and electric lumbar supports.
PRICE from £37,600 (lease from £475/m) / stuff.tv/ioniq5
KEY SPECS 185 miles ● 125kw (168hp) ● 8.5s ● 115mph ● 12.3in touchscreen
STUFF SAYS A deceptively large electric saloon that’s bristling with slick tech ★★★★✩