In lots of areas throughout america, it is virtually a provided that should you toss a rock, there’s a robust probability it would land close to a Subaru Crosstrek. The spectacular reputation of this car is not resulting from its extraordinary options however fairly a strategic components: modify an abnormal hatchback—particularly the Impreza—by growing floor clearance, including an outdoorsy aesthetic, and maybe outfitting it with all-terrain tires. The goal demographic? Residents of snowy states, off-road fans, and out of doors adventurers. The ultimate step is solely having fun with the income.
I imagine Hyundai is trying an identical technique with its newest electrical car, the Ioniq 5 XRT. After testing it on some grime roads close to Palm Desert, CA, I am satisfied there’s promise on this idea.
Hyundai has been introducing extra rugged XRT trims to its crossover lineup and the Santa Cruz truck, and the Ioniq 5 marks its inaugural foray into electrical fashions with this method. The XRT is a U.S.-specific model, positioned simply beneath the high-end Restricted trim of the Ioniq 5.
This new trim boasts an additional 0.9 inches of floor clearance, bringing the entire to seven inches, alongside distinctive suspension tuning. These enhancements enhance the car’s capacity to deal with obstacles, with enhanced method and departure angles of 19.8° and 30°, respectively, in comparison with decrease specs. Visually, the XRT differentiates itself with a redesigned entrance and rear fascia, that includes an all-black “Digital Camo” sample and outstanding crimson tow hooks on the entrance.
A key improve is within the tires, which at the moment are 235/60R-18 Continental CrossContact ATR all-terrain fashions. The XRT additionally introduces extra driving modes—Snow, Mud, and Sand—activated through a “TERRAIN MODE” button on the steering wheel; common Ioniq 5s come solely with the Snow mode and lack the camo inside particulars.
There is a stage of playfulness within the car’s look, which some might discover whimsical. In actual fact, an editor famous that the real-life look of the XRT was much less embarrassing than it appeared in photographs—arguably, it presents a extra attention-grabbing aesthetic than typical rugged SUVs.
Whereas the Ioniq 5 XRT is probably not a wholly novel thought, comparisons have emerged with fashions just like the Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally. Even Hyundai acknowledges this crossover class, but the sector stays largely unexplored inside the EV realm. One firm planner anticipates that the XRT model will account for round 10% to fifteen% of recent Ioniq 5 gross sales.
From my off-road expertise, I’ve discovered that understanding limitations is essential. The enhancements seen within the Ioniq 5 XRT make it appropriate for mild off-road capabilities however draw back from critical rock-crawling. Notably, the car lacks superior off-road options like adjustable suspension or differential locks. Whereas the entrance hooks are useful, the rear presents solely a normal tow hook and no spare tire.
The XRT’s capabilities come at the price of its vary, with the EPA score it at 259 miles, which is noticeably decrease than different trims of the Ioniq 5. As an illustration, the SEL and Restricted AWD fashions provide superior vary. When examined beneath typical temperatures, the XRT registered about 190 miles of vary at 85% cost—a discount of over 30 miles in comparison with the SEL model. The Ioniq 5 XRT comes outfitted with a Tesla-style North American Charging Normal plug for compatibility with Superchargers.
Initially, I had reservations concerning the Ioniq 5 XRT, suspecting it to be merely a advertising ploy. Nonetheless, to my shock, I discovered it pleasurable to drive. My expertise was restricted to a dust monitor, however the car’s efficiency was steady and enjoyable, particularly within the Sand Mode, which allowed for faster speeds and higher management, attributable to the speedy torque supply traits of dual-motor electrical automobiles.
The XRT retains the identical output as different all-wheel-drive Ioniq 5s—320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque. Regardless of its functionality on grime, I needed for enhanced digicam options for higher visibility throughout steep climbs, because the rear cameras deactivate at increased speeds.
By way of pricing, the Ioniq 5 XRT begins at $55,400, a big improve from the SEL AWD variant. It is more cost effective than the Mach-E Rally however stays a premium providing. Whereas conventional off-road automobiles just like the Rivian R1S might outperform it, that isn’t the XRT’s goal market.
In case your way of life entails navigating tough terrain, coping with winter snow, or traversing unpaved roads, the Ioniq 5 XRT is a exceptional electrical car selection. It’s an interesting choice for people like these in upstate New York who face heavy snowfall yearly, the place additional floor clearance and all-terrain tires would show useful.
In abstract, whereas the XRT might not rival Vermont’s Crosstrek gross sales, its distinctive choices will entice a distinct segment market of shoppers in search of a dependable electrical car able to dealing with various driving circumstances.
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