AS INCREASING numbers of motorists seek to take the electric avenue, car makers are striving to meet that demand with a host of new models.
But few are as striking or futuristic-looking as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 crossover, which really does stand out from the crowd.
A flowing profile mixed with dynamic creases give it a clean, athletic look, while the stunning LED light clusters featuring an array of pixels are a nod to the technology on board.
I really liked the almost coupe-like rear end to the Korean marque’s head-turner, with its roof spoiler complete with aerodynamic vents looming large over a steeply raked window.
Other highlights include the snazzy gloss black and silver 19in alloy wheels, flush-fitting door handles and chrome lower body mouldings.
The interior is also refreshingly different from a conventional cabin – the flat floor and comfortable, highly adjustable seats giving a real sense of spaciousness.
That is helped by the minimalist design throughout, and there is certainly ample room for four adults, while the boot space ranges from 527 to 1587 litres.
Arguably taking centre stage is the clean, wide-screen digital cockpit that seamlessly integrates the central 12.3in infotainment screen with the 12.3in instrument cluster.
The infotainment package includes full smartphone connectivity along with an app to handle various needs and voice recognition, as well as a wireless charging pad.
Adding to the Ioniq 5’s eco-friendly credentials is extensive use of environmentally friendly materials and the fit and finish of the mid-range Premium model I had on test felt very good indeed.
The Hyundai’s designers were helped by the fact that the crossover sits on a new, purpose-built, battery electric vehicle platform.
Moreover, with the battery pack positioned within the wheelbase, the weight distribution is well balanced and a low centre of gravity makes for confidence-inspiring handling.
The Ioniq 5 has three powertrain choices – 58kWh 170PS and 73kWh 217PS rear-wheel-drive units, and a 73kWh 305PS all-wheel-drive variant.
My test car came with the higher-powered rear-wheel-drive set-up that I found to be more than capable of delivering an enjoyable motoring experience.
For starters, it can take the Ioniq 5 from a standstill to 62mph in just 7.4 seconds, while the 115mph top speed is more than enough for UK roads.
The rear-wheel drive makes the steering feel very direct and, with a fairly stiff suspension minimising body roll, I felt able to push on through corners.
Steering wheel paddles allow you to employ an i-pedal function that makes the most of regenerative braking and means you can drive or stop just by pressing or lifting off the accelerator.
There are also three drive modes selected by a switch on the steering wheel – eco, normal and sport. The former calms things down and works to preserve battery range while the latter definitely provides added oomph for greater fun.
Unusually, the automatic gear and parking selector is operated by a stalk behind the steering wheel – helping to create more space for those up front.
But I soon got used to the system and there was certainly no need for range anxiety – the tested powertrain will officially take you up to 298 miles.
There are a variety of ways to power up the Ioniq 5 battery – ranging from a domestic plug socket up to a super-fast 350kW public charger.
Most domestic wall boxes will fully recharge the car in about 11 hours, a three-phase unit cuts that to six hours and a 50kW rapid public charger will get you to 80 per cent in an hour.
The Premium model being reviewed costs from £41,690 but comes laden with creature comforts and driver aids.
These include keyless entry and start, auto lights and wipers, dual-zone air con, heated front seats and steering wheel, as well as electric, heated door mirrors.
Front and rear parking sensors are supported by a rear-view camera and there is also adaptive cruise control with a stop/go function for heavy traffic situations.
Safety features include blind spot collision and rear cross traffic collision avoidance assistance, as well as lane keep/follow assist.
Finally, peace of mind is assured by Hyundai’s five-year/unlimited mileage warranty and an eight-year/100,000-mile guarantee for the battery.
The Ioniq 5 has all the makings of becoming a major player in the electric vehicle market.
