Is the Ioniq 5 or Ioniq 6 Right for You?

There are plenty of reasons to switch from a gas-powered vehicle to an EV. Maybe you’re passionate about protecting the environment, maybe you’re tired of dealing with unpredictable fuel prices, or maybe you’re just excited about driving the car of the future. Whatever your reasons for checking out an electric option, you can find electric vehicles for sale here at River City Hyundai.

Every driver is unique, which is why we’re dedicated to giving you a diverse lineup to choose from. With EVs becoming more mainstream, it’s important to give drivers plenty of electric options since just one model won’t be right for everyone who wants an EV. That’s why we’re proud to offer our customers an amazing lineup of hybrid and all-electric Hyundai vehicles. There are plug-in hybrid variants of the Santa Fe and Tucson, and hybrid variants of the Sonata and Elantra, giving drivers access to beloved nameplates and a balance between electric efficiency and the familiarity of gasoline.

But for drivers who want to drive into the future in a vehicle that was designed from the ground up to be all-electric, the Hyundai Ioniq lineup is definitely worth considering. The Ioniq models feature bold styling inside and out and impressive powertrains that are both highly efficient and fun to drive. Hyundai is creating a diverse lineup of new EVs that have similar aesthetics and tech features but different sizes and body styles. Let’s take a look at the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5 and 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 to see what they have in common and what makes each one unique.

Size and Bodystyle

If you take a look at the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 side by side, the first difference you’re likely to notice is their unique body styles. The Ioniq 5 has the size and shape of a crossover SUV, with an open cargo area in the back that can be accessed through a hatch. On the other hand, the Ioniq 6 is a sleek sedan with a sealed trunk.

The Ioniq 5 is a bit taller than the Ioniq 6, standing at 1.6 meters tall rather than 1.5 meters. This size difference, along with the open cargo area in the back that can be expanded by folding the rear row of seats flat, gives the Ioniq 5 the advantage when it comes to cargo space. However, the Ioniq 6 is longer than the Ioniq 5, with an overall length of 4.9 meters rather than 4.6 meters. This allows the Ioniq 6 to offer more legroom in the front row, so you and your front passenger can stretch out and get comfortable.

Exterior Design

Looking at the exteriors, it’s clear that these two vehicles are cut from the same cloth. Both have futuristic pixel lights that are both efficient and effective, giving the Ioniq lineup a unique personality and bold aesthetic. Hyundai has furthered this marriage of function and style with the wheel designs. The alloy wheels are aerodynamic and eye-catching, with unique fractal designs that fit nicely with the overall exterior appearance.

Both EVs also feature door handles that fit flush with the body and pop open when they detect your smart key. This modern touch adds to the sleek profiles and bold lines of the Ioniq family. It also makes the vehicles more aerodynamic, reducing drag and improving range.

Cold Weather Amenities

Here in Edmonton, we understand the importance of being ready for winter. You may have heard that EVs have trouble dealing with cold weather conditions. While that may be the case with some models, the latest generation of Hyundai EVs is equipped with technology that keeps the battery working well and the people inside comfortable no matter how much snow is falling.

Both the 2023 Ioniq 5 and 2023 Ioniq 6 come standard with heated outside mirrors that keep frost at bay for ideal visibility. Heated front seats are also standard, while heated rear seats are optional on some trims. You can also keep your hands nice and warm with a standard heated steering wheel.

The Ioniq models feature a high-tech heat pump system that reduces any loss of driving range in cold weather. The system can absorb external heat energy and use it to heat the cabin, consuming less battery power and increasing efficiency. Hyundai’s battery temperature management system pre-warms the battery while the vehicle is charging so that it doesn’t get too cold in-between drives.

Performance, Range, and Charging

Putting comparable models of the 2023 Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 side by side, many of the stats are the same. With a long-range battery and rear-wheel drive, both EVs produce 225 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Switch to all-wheel drive with the long-range battery, and you’ll get a more powerful system that produces 320 hp and 446 lb-ft of torque on either Ioniq model. These figures affect how quickly the vehicle can accelerate, which can be important in situations like passing slower cars.

While the performance stats are nearly identical, things start to get different when you look at range. Because the Ioniq 6 is lower to the ground and has a sleeker shape, it’s more aerodynamic and can go further between charges. The 2023 Ioniq 5 has a maximum range of 428 km with all-wheel drive and 488 km with rear-wheel drive, which is already quite impressive for an EV. But the 2023 Ioniq 6 beats both of those figures, offering up to 509 km of range with all-wheel drive and 581 km with rear-wheel drive.

While the Ioniq 6 provides more distance for each charge, it does take about 12 minutes longer than the Ioniq 5 to reach a full charge with Level 2 or 50 kW Level 3 charging. The difference at a 350 kW DC fast charging station is much less significant, though, with both models taking under 18 minutes to charge from 10% to 80%. Overall, the slight difference in charging times is unlikely to have a noticeable effect on your travels.

Which One Is Right For Me?

Both the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 are quality vehicles with a lot of great features. Which one is best for you all depends on your personal preferences. If you’re concerned with getting the best possible range, you will be better off with the Ioniq 6. If you need a lot of cargo space, the Ioniq 5 will be the right choice. Either way, you’ll get plenty of range and cutting-edge tech to improve your driving experience.

If neither one is exactly right for you, don’t worry. You can still get behind the wheel of an electrified Hyundai. There are several hybrid and plug-in hybrid options available right now that can reduce your carbon footprint and save you money on fuel. The Ioniq lineup is expected to expand in the near future with the introduction of the Ioniq 7, a fully electric three-row SUV, giving you plenty of room to work with if you need to take more passengers along for the ride. As the auto industry continues to evolve, you can count on us here at River City Hyundai to provide you with the latest and greatest vehicles.