OpenRoad Driver Volume 17 Issue 1 Nov. 2021 | Page 48

46 » OpenRoad Driver

2022 Hyundai IONIQ 5

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Hyundai ’ s IONIQ 5 represents a new beginning for the South Korean automaker . Fresh from the ground up with distinctive styling , impressive interior amenities , and an advanced electric drivetrain , the highly anticipated electric SUV is here to set a new benchmark for others to follow .
From the exterior , the IONIQ 5 retro-futuristic appeal is on full display . With its sharp creases and flat polygonal shapes , the compact SUV ’ s 8-bit polygonal design evokes 80s arcade nostalgia with pixelated lighting geometry and angular motifs . The futuristic vehicle proportions further accentuate this concept , where its exterior dimensions rival the gas-powered Tucson crossover , but feature a wheelbase longer than the flagship Palisade SUV .
The interior is a welcoming space with comfort amenities comparable to a modern lounge . Notably , the front seats can transform into recliners with built-in footrests , and the centre console storage slides along the floor between the two rows for a versatile storage configuration . A dual 12-inch display setup houses the infotainment and digital gauge cluster along with a heads-up display that projects important driving information onto the road ahead .
Two battery capacities and drivetrain options are available in Canada . The lineup starts with a 58-kWh battery and a single motor providing 225 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque with 358 kilometres of range to the rear wheels . From there , buyers can option a bigger battery pack for 480 kilometres of range , or a dual-motor setup with 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque for a sub-five-second 0-100 km / h time . All configurations ride on Hyundai ’ s new E-GMP vehicle architecture designed exclusively for electric vehicles .
Advanced charging solutions set the IONIQ 5 apart from its peers . Unlike other electric vehicles designed for a 400-volt electrical architecture , the IONIQ 5 uses a more advanced 800-volt architecture that saves weight , reduces charge times , and provides better performance . Bi-directional charging is also offered for owners to power regular household items and even other electric vehicles using the onboard battery pack .
Hyundai says the IONIQ 5 is the first entry in its IONIQ family of vehicles that will eventually include a midsize sedan and SUV . With the IONIQ 5 quickly becoming the most interesting vehicle to come out of South Korea , Hyundai sets our expectations very high for the future models joining the lineup .