2023 AAA Car Guide Winner: Midrange SUV

Unlike previous vehicles with the Ioniq moniker, the Ioniq 5 is the Hyundai sub-brand’s first dedicated EV. This tall hatchback is equipped with a sufficiently roomy cabin for all passengers and cargo. The 5 comes with either 1 motor and a 58-kWh battery pack or 1 or 2 motors and a 77.4-kWh battery pack. Our top-trim dual-motor Limited tester delivered quick, responsive, smooth acceleration, plus a decent EV range (an estimated 256 miles) and strong fuel efficiency numbers (98 MPGe in combined driving).

Even the base trim level is well-outfitted, with 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, adjustable regenerative braking, a nav system, and a heated, power-adjustable driver’s seat. One especially cool feature is the 5’s 800-volt architecture, which is twice as powerful as most EVs’ 400-volt systems; it enables the battery pack to be replenished from 10% to 80% in about 18 minutes. A comprehensive set of advanced safety features is standard as well.

Unfortunately, the Ioniq 5 isn’t much fun to drive, with a floaty ride and lots of body roll in turns. The interior styling is bland, and an overabundance of hard plastics gives the cabin a cheap feel. Visibility to the rear is poor, and the steering-wheel controls for the infotainment system are needlessly complex, requiring a steep learning curve.One welcome perk: Owners receive free unlimited 30-minute charging sessions for 2 years on Electrify America’s network of chargers.