HYUNDAI IONIQ 5 PROJECT 45 REVIEW AND RANGE TEST

EV Channels Review

The Hyundai Ioniq 5, specifically the Project 45 trim, is a visually striking EV that has grown on the reviewer despite initial reservations about its styling. While the interior is praised for its spaciousness, comfortable and supportive seats (heated and ventilated), and ambient mood lighting, the reviewer found the driving experience hampered by the vehicle's considerable weight, leading to less-than-ideal handling. The infotainment screens and lane-keeping assist were also points of contention, with the latter being particularly intrusive and requiring manual deactivation on each start. Practicality is a mixed bag: the sliding center console offers flexibility, and features like the head-up display and remote parking are appreciated. However, the solar roof's contribution is minimal in the UK, and the vehicle-to-load function is deemed unnecessary by the reviewer. Real-world efficiency was disappointing, averaging 2.8 miles per kWh in winter conditions, significantly lower than previous Ioniq models. Despite these drawbacks, the Ioniq 5 is commended for its quiet and refined cabin, superior to a Tesla Model 3 in this regard, and its rapid charging capability (though battery preconditioning proved elusive). The Project 45, priced at £48,000, offers a premium interior build quality comparable to luxury brands, but its weight and efficiency issues are significant drawbacks.