In naming the IONIQ 5 as their 2022 EV of the Year, Car and Driver distinguished this remarkable SUV as a standout in a crowded field. The accolade reflects not just a vehicle’s performance but its alignment with a future-forward vision of electric mobility.
Here’s a closer look at what set the IONIQ 5 apart and earned it top honors from one of the most respected voices in automotive journalism. Central to the IONIQ 5’s success is its foundation on Hyundai’s state-of-the-art E-GMP platform, which was purpose-built for electric vehicles.
This innovative architecture underpins every aspect of the IONIQ 5’s design, providing an 800-volt electrical system that enables the SUV to charge from 10 to 80 percent in a mere 18 minutes.
This capability is a testament to the platform’s advanced engineering and Hyundai’s commitment to making electric vehicle ownership both practical and exhilarating.
Car and Driver’s team of editors praised the IONIQ 5 for more than just its technological innovations. They found that each trim level of the SUV offers a driving experience that is both thrilling and refined.
With swift acceleration and nimble handling, the IONIQ 5 delivers on the promise of a dynamic and engaging drive. This responsiveness is enhanced by the vehicle’s thoughtfully designed layout, which features a low-mounted battery pack and compact electric motors that allow the wheels to be positioned at the extremities of the body.
The result is a spacious, comfortable interior that is both functional and stylish. Car and Driver’s evaluation process is rigorous, with each vehicle being assessed on a 100-point scale.
To earn a spot on their list of the year’s best vehicles, a model must excel in its intended purpose, offer exceptional value, and provide an enjoyable driving experience. In the IONIQ 5’s case, it achieved all these criteria with distinction.
Another key factor in the IONIQ 5’s selection was Car and Driver’s editorial stance on value versus price. Their criteria excluded any truck, SUV, or van with a base price exceeding $110,000, under the belief that such a high price point should inherently reflect superior quality.
This approach ensured that only vehicles delivering exceptional performance and value were considered for the top honors. The IONIQ 5’s recognition as Car and Driver’s 2022 EV of the Year underscores Hyundai’s success in crafting a vehicle that is not only technologically advanced but also a joy to drive.
With its groundbreaking platform, impressive charging capabilities, and engaging driving dynamics, the IONIQ 5 stands as a beacon of what the future of electric vehicles can be.
By focusing on innovation, performance, and value, the IONIQ 5 has set a new standard in the electric vehicle market, earning its place at the pinnacle of the automotive world and affirming Hyundai’s position as a leader in the future of transportation.