Overview
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 arrived in 2021 and immediately reset expectations for electric cars. Its 800V architecture enables charging speeds that rival refuelling, while its retro-futuristic design turned heads everywhere.
Built on Hyundai's dedicated E-GMP platform, the Ioniq 5 offers genuine innovation. The flat floor creates exceptional interior space, and Vehicle-to-Load lets you power appliances from the car.
Model variants:
| Version | Battery | Range (WLTP) | Power | 0-62mph |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Range RWD | 58kWh | 238 miles | 168hp | 8.5s |
| Long Range RWD | 77.4kWh | 315 miles | 225hp | 7.4s |
| Long Range AWD | 77.4kWh | 298 miles | 321hp | 5.1s |
Key changes:
| Year | Changes |
|---|---|
| 2021 | UK launch |
| 2022 | Minor updates, improved availability |
| 2023 | Software improvements |
The Long Range RWD offers the best balance of range and efficiency. AWD adds performance but reduces range.
Performance & Drive
In town
The Ioniq 5 feels smaller than its footprint suggests. Despite being 4.6m long, the tight turning circle and good visibility make urban driving manageable. The instant torque dispatches traffic with ease.
On the motorway
Refined and comfortable. The Ioniq 5 cruises quietly at speed, and the long-range battery versions handle motorway journeys without anxiety. The real party trick is charging — 10-80% in 18 minutes at a 350kW charger transforms road trips.
On a twisty road
Competent but not sporty. The Ioniq 5 prioritises comfort over engagement. The steering is light and accurate but lacks feel. Body roll is controlled, and the ride is compliant. It's a cruiser, not a sports car.
The AWD version adds performance but doesn't fundamentally change the character.
Space & Practicality
Front seats
Excellent space with comfortable, supportive seats. The flat floor and minimalist dashboard create an airy, lounge-like feel. The centre console slides fore and aft, adding flexibility.
Rear seats
This is the Ioniq 5's party trick. The flat floor and long wheelbase create exceptional legroom. The rear seats slide and recline, offering near-limousine space when pushed back.
| Measurement | Space |
|---|---|
| Rear legroom | Exceptional |
| Rear headroom | Good |
| Rear width | 3 adults comfortable |
Boot space
At 527 litres rear plus a 57-litre frunk, total storage is generous. The boot floor is adjustable, and the rear seats fold 60:40.
| Configuration | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Rear boot | 527 litres |
| Frunk | 57 litres (RWD) / 24 litres (AWD) |
| Seats folded | ~1,587 litres |
Interior & Tech
Interior quality
Good but with caveats. The design is stunning — minimalist and futuristic. However, the piano black trim scratches instantly, and some plastics feel below the price point.
Build quality is generally solid, though some panel gaps and rattles have been reported.
Infotainment
| Feature | Availability |
|---|---|
| Dual 12.3" screens | Standard |
| Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Standard |
| Navigation with charging routing | Standard |
| Augmented reality HUD | Higher trims |
| Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) | Standard |
V2L capability
The Ioniq 5 can power external devices (up to 3.6kW) from its battery. Useful for camping, power tools, or emergencies. A genuine differentiator.
Touch controls
The touch-sensitive climate controls below the screen frustrate many owners. They require looking away from the road and provide no haptic feedback.
Range & Charging
Real-world range
| Version | WLTP | Real-world (summer) | Real-world (winter) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Range RWD | 238 miles | 180-210 miles | 140-170 miles |
| Long Range RWD | 315 miles | 250-280 miles | 190-230 miles |
| Long Range AWD | 298 miles | 230-260 miles | 180-220 miles |
Home charging
| Battery | 7kW Time | 11kW Time |
|---|---|---|
| 58kWh | ~9 hours | ~6 hours |
| 77.4kWh | ~12 hours | ~8 hours |
DC rapid charging
This is the Ioniq 5's killer feature. The 800V architecture enables:
| Charger Speed | 10-80% Time |
|---|---|
| 50kW | ~60 minutes |
| 150kW | ~25 minutes |
| 350kW | ~18 minutes |
The charging curve is excellent, maintaining high speeds throughout. At compatible Ionity chargers, you can add 100 miles in under 10 minutes.
Reliability & Common Problems
Overall reliability
Generally good. The E-GMP platform is well-engineered, and major failures are uncommon.
Common issues
| Issue | Severity |
|---|---|
| 12V battery drain | Medium — can strand the car |
| Infotainment glitches | Low — software updates help |
| Charging inconsistency | Low — occasional public charger issues |
| Interior rattles | Low — varies by build |
| Condensation in lights | Low — cosmetic |
Battery and drivetrain
The main components are proving robust. Hyundai's 8-year battery warranty provides peace of mind.
Warranty
| Coverage | Duration |
|---|---|
| Vehicle | 5 years / unlimited miles |
| Battery | 8 years / 100,000 miles |
The transferable warranty is a significant used-car advantage.
What to Look For When Buying
Before viewing
- Check warranty remaining — 5 years from registration
- Verify battery size — 58kWh vs 77.4kWh significant
- Confirm drivetrain — RWD vs AWD
- Service history — Hyundai dealer preferred
During inspection
| Check | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Piano black trim | Scratches (almost universal) |
| Interior rattles | Drive over rough surfaces |
| 12V battery | Check age, any jump-start history |
| Charging ports | Both CCS and Type 2 function |
| Tyres | Even wear (alignment issues reported) |
Test drive checklist
| Test | What You Want |
|---|---|
| Fast charging | Try a rapid charge if possible |
| Infotainment | No freezing or lag |
| V2L | Verify functionality |
| All driving modes | Eco, Normal, Sport respond |
| Regen paddles | i-Pedal and paddle modes work |
Questions to ask
- Has the 12V battery been replaced?
- Any infotainment issues or software updates?
- Has the car been regularly fast-charged?
- What warranty remains?
- Any issues with public charging?
Used Price Guide
Current market prices (2026)
| Year | Version | Mileage | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Long Range RWD | 30-50,000 | £28,000 - £36,000 |
| 2021 | Long Range AWD | 30-50,000 | £32,000 - £40,000 |
| 2022 | Long Range RWD | 20-40,000 | £32,000 - £40,000 |
| 2022 | Long Range AWD | 20-40,000 | £36,000 - £45,000 |
| 2023 | Long Range RWD | 10-30,000 | £36,000 - £45,000 |
What affects price
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Battery size | High |
| Drivetrain (RWD vs AWD) | Medium-High |
| Trim level | Medium |
| Warranty remaining | Medium |
| Mileage | Medium |
Best value
A 2022 Long Range RWD with 20,000-40,000 miles offers the best balance. Maximum range, excellent charging, and still under warranty. Expect £32,000-£40,000.
The Verdict
Who should buy a used Hyundai Ioniq 5?
The Ioniq 5 makes sense if:
- Fast charging matters (it's class-leading)
- You want striking, distinctive design
- Interior space is important
- V2L capability appeals
- You value warranty coverage
Who should look elsewhere?
Consider alternatives if:
- Maximum efficiency is priority (Tesla more efficient)
- You want engaging driving dynamics
- Interior quality perfection matters
- Budget is tight (still expensive used)
The bottom line
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 (2021-2023) deserves its awards. The 800V charging capability genuinely changes how you use an EV — road trips become practical without lengthy waits. The interior space rivals cars a class above.
Its weaknesses — scratchy interior trim, touch controls, mediocre efficiency — are real but manageable. The fundamentals are excellent.
For those wanting a practical, innovative EV that can charge faster than almost anything else, the Ioniq 5 delivers.
| Rating | Score |
|---|---|
| Value for money | 7/10 |
| Real-world range | 8/10 |
| Charging convenience | 10/10 |
| Reliability | 8/10 |
| Practicality | 9/10 |
| Overall | 9/10 |
