2026 Hyundai IONIQ 5 Review

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 offers a range of powertrains designed to suit different driving styles. The long-range rear-wheel drive (RWD) model provides a confident 225 horsepower, while the standard-range RWD version still provides a solid 168 horsepower. Both models deliver a robust 258 lb-ft of instant torque, providing a responsive and dynamic feel from the moment you press the pedal.

The Ioniq 5's single motor rear wheel drive not only provides a fun, sporty feel but also contributes to the vehicle's excellent efficiency. The long-range RWD model earns an impressive EPA-estimated 129 MPGe in the city and 100 MPGe on the highway. The standard range RWD model is even more efficient in the city, with an estimated 131 MPGe.

The Ioniq 5 also makes a significant financial case for itself. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the projected annual power costs for these models can be as low as $600 to $650. The cost to drive just 25 miles is around $1.02, a fraction of what you would pay for a gallon of gasoline. This makes the Ioniq 5 a vehicle that truly pays you back over time.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 offers a range of powertrains with impressive driving ranges to accommodate any journey. The standard range battery is rated for an EPA-estimated 245 miles on a single charge. The long-range rear-wheel-drive model raises the bar even higher, with a range of 318 miles. For those who opt for the all-wheel-drive powertrain, the range is still excellent at 290 miles.

One of the Ioniq 5's most revolutionary features is its ultra-fast charging capability. The vehicle's advanced 800-volt architecture allows it to charge from 10% to 80% in as little as 20 minutes when using a compatible 350-kW DC fast charger. This means you can get the power you need to hit the road again in the time it takes to grab a coffee, making long-distance travel in an EV more convenient than ever before. You won’t find this NACS charging port on rivals like the Ford Mustang Mach E.

The Ioniq 5 also utilizes regenerative braking to recapture energy while you drive. The system can be easily adjusted using convenient steering wheel-mounted paddles, allowing you to choose between maximizing energy recapture for efficiency or favoring stronger, traditional braking for a sportier driving experience.

For drivers who want more power and all-weather capability, the Ioniq 5's all-wheel-drive powertrain is an excellent choice. It adds a second electric motor to the front axle, producing a combined output of 320 horsepower and a staggering 446 lb-ft of torque. This high performance AWD EV can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in as little as 4.5 seconds. You won’t enjoy this performance with the Volkswagen ID.4.

The dual-motor setup in the Ioniq 5 provides a major advantage in traction and handling. The electric motors can deliver power to the front and rear wheels independently, ensuring a firm grip on the road in challenging conditions like rain or snow. This capability makes the Ioniq 5 a truly versatile vehicle, ready to take on a variety of driving situations.

The all-wheel-drive system perfectly complements the Ioniq 5's balanced chassis, which is designed with a low center of gravity. This combination of powerful motors and a well-engineered suspension delivers a driving experience that is both exhilarating and confident, proving that you don't have to sacrifice performance for efficiency or practicality.

The 2026 Ioniq 5 XRT trim adds a unique suspension lift, all-terrain tires, and exclusive styling cues that emphasize its adventurous spirit. It's designed for drivers who want a more capable vehicle for light off-roading and a distinct, rugged aesthetic.

The 2026 Ioniq 5 is designed with a spacious and stylish interior that feels surprisingly upscale for its class. The cabin’s color schemes, available in sophisticated black or gray-on-gray, are complemented by high-quality H-Tex® upholstery, which offers a premium feel. 

The layout is optimized for comfort, with a flat floor and a generous 106 cubic feet of passenger volume. The cargo area is just as versatile, providing 27.2 cubic feet of space that expands to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.

The Limited trim elevates this comfort to the next level. It adds a Bose Premium Audio System and a head-up display that projects key information directly onto the windshield at the driver’s eye level. Most importantly, it includes ventilated front seats, a game-changer for staying cool and comfortable during the sweltering heat of a Phoenix summer.

The Ioniq 5's cockpit is a tech-lover's dream, centered around a stunning panoramic display. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster sits behind the steering wheel, while a matching 12.3-inch touchscreen provides seamless access to all your entertainment and navigation features. Standard on every model are wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, along with a Wi-Fi hotspot, ensuring you stay connected on the go.

The cabin is designed for both high-tech and intuitive use. While the touchscreens are the centerpiece, Hyundai has thoughtfully kept physical controls for the dual-zone automatic climate system to ensure ease of use. 

A clever energy-saving setting allows the driver to redirect all air conditioning to their position when driving alone. SEL trims add even more convenience, including a wireless charger and the Hyundai Digital Key, a phone app that lets you leave your smart key behind.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a remarkably practical choice for families, offering a blend of durable materials and comfortable amenities. For parents, the standard fabric upholstery is a good pick as it is designed to be stain and odor-resistant. This makes it easy to keep the cabin looking fresh and clean, even with small children.

The Ioniq 5’s interior is designed to keep everyone happy and comfortable. The rear seat offers nearly 40 inches of legroom, giving teens and adults plenty of space to stretch out. Passengers will appreciate the flat floor, reclining seats, and dual USB ports, while a center armrest with dual cupholders provides added convenience. Rear side-shades and A/C rear vents also help passengers beat the Phoenix heat.

Standard on every trim are dual-zone automatic temperature controls, which make it easy to regulate the climate throughout the cabin. This allows the driver and front passenger to set their own temperatures, and the whole system is designed to provide consistent comfort.

The 2026 Ioniq 5 comes with a comprehensive suite of safety features to provide peace of mind. A new haptic feedback steering wheel adds an extra layer of awareness, providing a subtle pulse to warn the driver of potential dangers detected by the Blind-Spot Warning and Lane Departure Alert systems. For added safety, the Ioniq 5's airbag count has been increased with more rear airbags and improved seatbelt adjustments, while LATCH attachments remain standard for car seats.

The Ioniq 5’s standard Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) system is designed to watch out for cyclists, pedestrians, and vehicles ahead and can even apply the emergency autobrake if a collision is imminent. The system becomes even more sophisticated on higher trims, gaining the ability to scan for dangers at four-way junctions, including oncoming traffic when making a left turn.

For a less stressful drive, the Ioniq 5 comes standard with Smart Cruise Control that can handle stop-and-go traffic. This works seamlessly with Lane Following Assist and Lane Keeping Assist to help you maintain a safe trajectory. The Highway Driving Assist system can take over even more driving functions when conditions allow, making long highway journeys more relaxing.

The Ioniq 5's urban-friendly design is complemented by its suite of parking and driver aids. The available Surround View Monitor provides a full 360-degree view around the vehicle, making it easy to maneuver into tight spaces. You can also rely on the rear cross-traffic alert, which can apply the brakes if a driver fails to react, and a rear parking sensor that can trigger a reverse autobrake.

Inside, the Ioniq 5 features a striking high-tech cockpit. A 12.3-inch digital instrument panel sits behind the steering wheel, while a matching 12.3-inch touchscreen provides all your entertainment and information. Standard on all models is a Wi-Fi hotspot, ensuring everyone stays connected. The infotainment system also includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration.

SEL trims and higher also add important convenience tools, including a wireless phone charger and the Hyundai Digital Key, a convenient phone app that allows you to leave your smart key behind. A speed limit assist keeps you aware of changes in speed limits, which is helpful when cruise control is engaged. The combination of easy-to-use technology and a clean design makes the Ioniq 5 a truly modern ride.

You can learn more about how these excellent technologies work when you schedule a test drive. Visit your Earnhardt Hyundai San Tan dealer to learn more.