As we strategy the tip of February 2025, the chance to expertise the most recent battery electrical autos (BEVs) is turning into more and more out there. Not too long ago, I took a visit to Palm Springs, California to check drive the 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5. This flagship electrical mannequin has undergone a mid-cycle refresh for 2025, and whereas the adjustments might not be revolutionary in comparison with earlier variations, I discovered that Hyundai has made considerate upgrades based mostly on buyer suggestions, enhancing an already spectacular BEV.
### Background on the Hyundai IONIQ 5 as We Enter 2025
The IONIQ 5 is pivotal in Hyundai’s push in the direction of turning into a completely electrical model. Launched in 2021, it was the primary mannequin constructed on Hyundai Motor Group’s superior E-GMP platform, that includes 800V structure. On the time of its debut, 800V expertise appeared formidable, given that the majority public chargers could not ship that degree of energy.
Nonetheless, Hyundai’s early funding on this expertise has paid off, benefiting its different manufacturers corresponding to Kia and Genesis. In 2024, HMG offered 742,000 autos within the U.S., capturing 8.3% of the electrical car market and turning into the second top-selling EV model within the nation, trailing solely behind Tesla. The IONIQ 5, specifically, shone brightly in Hyundai’s lineup, with gross sales reaching 44,000 items in 2024—a formidable improve of 93% from its preliminary launch in 2022 and a 31% rise year-over-year in comparison with 2023.
Having been a fan of the IONIQ 5 since its debut, my enthusiasm solely grew after my first detailed walkthrough at Hyundai’s U.S. headquarters in Fountain Valley, California. Almost 4 years later, the 2025 IONIQ 5 has launched a mid-cycle refresh. Whereas the upgrades aren’t overwhelming, they warrant a more in-depth look.
### The 2025 IONIQ 5 Drives the Identical, Which is Nonetheless a Win
Regardless of minimal adjustments on paper, Hyundai has made delicate alterations to bolster an already standout all-electric mannequin. The 2025 IONIQ 5 maintains its concentrate on modern design, superior capabilities, and top-tier security—incomes Hyundai the best accolades from the 2024 IIHS Awards.
Brad Arnold, Hyundai’s head of exterior design, defined that the design of the brand new IONIQ 5 had obtained “a lot reward” that his staff did not alter it considerably. Enhancements embrace a extra sturdy look for the entrance, rear, and wheels, together with a brand new commonplace rear wiper based mostly on buyer enter.
Moreover, the 2025 IONIQ 5 marks the introduction of the NACS port, making it the primary non-Tesla car to function this new U.S. charging commonplace. For many who could solely have entry to CCS chargers, Hyundai has additionally dedicated to offering a complimentary adapter for his or her prospects.
### 2025 Fashions Ship Simplified Inside, Higher Efficiency
Inside, the 2025 mannequin has launched extra bodily buttons on the middle console for capabilities like heated seats and parking help, alongside simplified HVAC controls and two dials on the dashboard for quantity and tuning changes.
The infotainment system has additionally been upgraded for sooner processing and enhanced GPS accuracy. Wi-fi Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are actually included, in addition to a Wi-Fi hotspot and USB-C retailers.
Moreover, the brand new Hyundai Pay system permits drivers to hyperlink their bank card for seamless funds at charging stations and parking, all built-in into the car’s system. The newest mannequin additionally comes geared up with Hyundai’s Digital Key 2 expertise, using each Bluetooth and RFID expertise for added comfort.
The updates lengthen to the superior driver help methods (ADAS), that includes haptic suggestions, driver consideration alerts, and new non-compulsory warning alerts. Maybe most notably, the 2025 IONIQ 5 gives enhanced vary throughout all trims, because of bigger battery packs and improved cell chemistry.
### The 2025 IONIQ 5 Is a Acquainted Pal
Driving the 2025 IONIQ 5, I discovered that the efficiency stays in step with final 12 months’s mannequin, now that includes improved vary and probably sooner cost speeds. The acquainted driving expertise was reassuring; I admire regenerative braking and the one-pedal driving this mannequin excels at.
Navigating the elevations round Palm Springs, I used to be impressed by the IONIQ 5’s efficiency, needing to make use of the brake pedal solely as soon as throughout my drive. The introduction of the Sensible Regen System 2 permits for computerized changes to regenerative braking utilizing radar sensors.
General, the IONIQ 5 continues to shine as a worthy electrical car, with its E-GMP platform and roomy inside. Though it might not be probably the most agile BEV, it offers an exciting trip, excelling in acceleration and providing stability in curves. Whereas I generally want for a sportier tuning, Hyundai has reserved that effort for the IONIQ 5 N.
Although many developments within the 2025 IONIQ 5 are beauty or associated to battery enhancements, the enhancements are important sufficient for a mid-cycle refresh. This mannequin is more likely to preserve its best-seller standing, additional establishing Hyundai’s status as a number one participant within the tech-forward BEV area, all whereas remaining competitively priced. The 2025 IONIQ 5 is at present out there, beginning at an MSRP of $42,500 earlier than taxes and costs.
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