Exterior view of the 2024 IONIQ 5 

 

Hyundai concocted the perfect formula for effortless commutes and spirited daily driving with the IONIQ 5. Get past the pathetic Hyundai dealers and the Hyundai IONIQ 5 Limited provides comfort and driving spirit in a neat and simple package, writes Janam Gupta.

With solid suspension, decent interior fittings, and comfort all around, the 2024 IONIQ 5 fights for being the best commute car in the market. The IONIQ 5 reminds us that quality and comfort don’t necessarily equate to buying a luxury brand vehicle.

First Impressions

Approaching the car, we were struck by the retro-styled design that Hyundai opted for. It’s designed to taste and the unique styling may not float everyone’s boat. For me? It depends on my mood. 

As I stepped inside, I was greeted by supple yet supportive leather seats, a white-bezel dash, and a grippy steering wheel. The spacious interior felt airy and light. The screens had a matte finish, leaving little to no glare.

In the age of screens and menus, physical buttons were very warmly welcomed. Basic functions like climate controls and infotainment navigation can be handled by a 4-year-old. Not that we recommend having a 4-year-old in the front seat.  

Dynamics: Hidden Beast in Plain Sight

Straight away, we were welcomed by the instant acceleration and balanced steering, nicely weighted. It was not jet-like or as precise as the Model 3, but it was adequate. The car cruises effortlessly around towns and highways and provides a sprightly punch. Cutting o—I mean merging into a lane and being ahead of a car is easily achievable with the IONIQ 5. Kick the car into Sport mode and the instrument cluster turns red. The steering gets heavier, and the acceleration becomes more Tesla-like. However, the turning radius is rather lackluster. 

The suspension perfectly blends sportiness and comfort. Potholes don’t faze the car, riding through them firmly without punishing the passengers. The car feels strong around corners.

Dynamic regenerative braking allows the IONIQ 5 to coast like a normal car or i-Pedal drive (1 pedal driving). 

A great car to drive all around. It’s comfortable for city driving, fast and easy for freeways, and fairly engaging for spirited driving.

Comfort: No SUV Needed

Interior view of the 2024 IONIQ 5.

The interior is very spacious and quiet, fitted with seats that are comfortable and supportive. The driver is blessed with a bonus footrest for the occasional naps. Just don’t snooze while driving. 

The interior overall seems well-built. No rattles or creaks which is not as common these days and doors provided an almost Mercedes-like solid ‘thunk’ on closing.

The car is rather practical on the inside, with ample storage throughout the car. The back seats are spacious and can easily seat three for long journeys. The trunk is a tad bit small but should be adequate for most. The frunk is usele- you know what, I’m not even going to waste my time behind that.

However, with all these creature comforts and you still couldn’t give the car an electronically tilt-telescoping steering wheel? 

Equipment: Simple, Practical

First things first, the IONIQ 5 comes with a heads-up display. As if that wasn’t a big enough slap on Tesla’s face, it also has augmented reality built into it. 

The Limited trim came with a Bose sound system which was disappointing. The sound was very bass-heavy with the highs gone on vacation.

Our test car was also equipped with a high-def surround view camera and a digital rear-view mirror. Both are functional additions. The car has serious blind spots, but Hyundai has gone to the moon to cover those shortcomings. Signal left or right and a live feed of the side-view sprouts on the instrument cluster. If there is a car, audio and visual signals will ensure you don’t change lanes. If that wasn’t enough, there are strong visible indicators of blind spot obstructions on the heads-up display and the instrument cluster. I don’t think we need side-view mirrors anymore.

The car is also fitted with all the latest driving assistance features. Adaptive cruise control, forward and rear collision warning and braking, and lane keeping assist, just to name a few. The car can also park itself if you can’t be bothered to do it yourself. 

Notice how we haven’t said anything about the gear selector or indicators. Well, simply because they are in a sensible place. Take that, Tesla.

Verdict

This car is packed with features and is an easy-to-live-with car. It screams comfort and everyday usability with all the tech to satisfy the average Silicon Valley Raj.  An estimated 300 miles of range with fast charging is an added plus. Find the right dealer with the right deal and I’d sign on the IONIQ 5. Get over the sound system mishap, terrible dealer experience, and a laughable frunk space, and the IONIQ 5 will make your friends go “Holy chocolate-chipped pancakes, that’s cool.” Just don’t turn the music up too loud when showing them your car.

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