This page provides a review on the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6 and Kona EV through performance, driving experience and reliability.

2024 Hyundai Kona EV

Performance

The 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric comes with two powertrain options: a standard range with 99 kW (133 hp) and a 48.6 kWh battery, and an extended range with 150 kW (201 hp) and a 64.8 kWh battery. The standard range provides around 370 km (230 miles) of range, while the extended range offers between 444 and 505 km (276-314 miles). The reduction in torque from the previous model to 255 Nm (188 lb-ft) improves drivability, reducing issues like torque steer that were present in earlier versions.

Driving Experience

The Kona Electric offers a smooth and comfortable ride, particularly at low speeds. The suspension is well-tuned to absorb bumps and road imperfections, making it suitable for urban driving. However, at higher speeds, the ride can become a bit choppy, and there is some wind and road noise on the highway. The light steering makes maneuvering in tight spaces easy, though it lacks the precision and feedback needed for spirited driving. The regenerative braking system is effective and can be adjusted via steering wheel paddles, allowing for one-pedal driving in certain conditions​.

Reliability

Hyundai has a reputation for reliability, and the Kona Electric benefits from this legacy. The car's build quality is solid, and it comes equipped with a range of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and driver attention monitoring. However, some users have noted that the lane-centering system can be overly intrusive, and the driver attention system can give false positives, which can be distracting.

Interior and Technology

The interior of the 2024 Kona Electric is spacious and modern, featuring two 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment system. The inclusion of physical buttons for essential controls is appreciated, providing a user-friendly interface. Standard features across the range include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a digital key that allows you to use your smartphone to unlock and start the vehicle. Higher trims offer heated and ventilated seats, adding to the overall comfort​.

Good:

  • Comfortable Ride: Smooth and quiet ride, especially at lower speeds.

  • Interior Space and Features: Spacious cabin with high-quality materials and advanced tech features.

  • Range Options: Good range options with up to 505 km (314 miles) on a single charge.

  • Regenerative Braking: Effective and adjustable regenerative braking system.

Bad:

  • High-Speed Ride Quality: Can be choppy on highways.

  • Steering Feel: Light steering lacks precision and feedback.

  • Driver Assistance Systems: Some systems, like lane-centering and driver attention monitoring, need refinement.

Overall Rating

Considering its performance, driving experience, and reliability, the 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric earns an overall rating of 8 out of 10. It is a solid choice for those looking for a comfortable and well-equipped electric SUV, though it has some minor drawbacks that potential buyers should be aware of.

2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6

The 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6 is a sleek and technologically advanced electric sedan that stands out for its performance, driving experience, and reliability. Here's a detailed review focusing on these aspects, highlighting both the positive and negative points.

Performance

The 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6 offers two primary powertrain options. The standard rear-wheel-drive version features a 77.4 kWh battery, delivering 225 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This model offers a substantial range, with the SE trim achieving up to 361 miles. The all-wheel-drive variant increases power to 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque, albeit with a reduced range of around 316 miles due to its higher power output and added weight.

Charging is a strong point for the Ioniq 6, thanks to its 800-volt architecture. This allows for rapid charging, capable of going from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes under optimal conditions, making it one of the fastest-charging vehicles in its class.

Driving Experience

The driving experience of the Ioniq 6 is largely positive. It features a stiffer suspension compared to its sibling, the Ioniq 5, which enhances its responsiveness and reduces body roll, contributing to a more engaging driving experience. The steering is quick and accurate, adding to the car's sporty feel. Despite the stiffer suspension, the ride quality remains comfortable, even over longer distances, making it an excellent highway cruiser.

One notable feature is the adjustable regenerative braking, which can be set to allow for full one-pedal driving. This system is intuitive and helps improve the overall efficiency and ease of use​.

Reliability

Hyundai has made significant strides in electric vehicle reliability, and the Ioniq 6 is no exception. However, being a relatively new model, it remains to be seen how it performs long-term. Initial reviews are favorable, citing good build quality and reliability. Hyundai's comprehensive warranty further bolsters confidence, offering an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty on the battery.

Positive Aspects

  • Design and Build Quality: The Ioniq 6 sports a modern, aerodynamic design with high-quality interior materials. It features innovative design elements such as pixelated lighting and a spacious cabin with excellent rear legroom.

  • Performance and Range: Strong performance across both powertrain options, with impressive range figures and fast-charging capabilities.

  • Comfort and Technology: A well-appointed interior with a large, user-friendly infotainment system, robust driver assistance features, and a quiet, refined driving experience.

Negative Aspects

  • Cargo Space: The trunk is somewhat limited for a midsize sedan, which might be a drawback for those needing more cargo capacity.

  • Driving Modes: The differences between driving modes (Eco, Normal, Sport) can be underwhelming, with Eco mode feeling sluggish and Sport mode making the steering excessively heavy.

  • Steering Feel: While accurate, the steering feel can be somewhat artificial, which might not appeal to all drivers.

Overall Rating

The 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6 is a well-rounded electric sedan that excels in performance, comfort, and technology, earning an overall rating of 8.5 out of 10. Its strengths in range, charging speed, and driving dynamics make it a strong contender in the EV market, though it has minor drawbacks in cargo space and driving mode execution.

2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5

The 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a sleek and technologically advanced electric SUV that stands out for its performance, driving experience, and reliability. Here's a detailed review focusing on these aspects, highlighting both the positive and negative points.

Performance

The 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 offers multiple powertrain options, including a single-motor rear-wheel-drive (RWD) model with 168 horsepower and a 58 kWh battery providing a range of 220 miles. The long-range version with a 77.4 kWh battery comes in both RWD (225 hp, 303-mile range) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations (320 hp, 260-mile range). The AWD version accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in about 5 seconds, while the RWD does it in 7 seconds. The 800-volt architecture supports fast charging, adding 100 miles of range in 18 minutes.

Driving Experience

The Ioniq 5 delivers a refined and enjoyable driving experience, especially with the dual-motor AWD model. It offers instant torque and a smooth ride with a stable highway performance due to its long wheelbase. Driving modes such as Normal, Eco, Sport, and Snow, along with adjustable regenerative braking levels, enhance versatility. The vehicle also features Hyundai’s Highway Driving Assist for semi-automated driving and enhanced comfort​.

Reliability

The Ioniq 5 is built on Hyundai’s E-GMP platform, known for its solid construction and reliability. It includes advanced safety features and driver-assistance technologies. The comprehensive warranty and Hyundai’s reputation for building dependable vehicles support the reliability of the Ioniq 5​.

The Good

  • Range and Efficiency: Up to 303 miles on a single charge with impressive efficiency ratings.

  • Fast Charging: One of the fastest charging EVs available, with 800V architecture.

  • Comfort and Space: Spacious, high-tech interior with a sliding second-row seat for added flexibility.

  • Advanced Features: Includes Highway Driving Assist, a large touchscreen, and multiple driving modes.

The Bad

  • Price: Higher trims can be pricey compared to some competitors.

  • Handling: The vehicle's weight might impact agility, especially in the single-motor configuration.

  • Infotainment System: Some users find the infotainment system less intuitive compared to competitors​.

Overall Rating

The 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 stands out as a versatile and efficient electric vehicle with advanced technology and a comfortable driving experience. Its impressive range, fast charging capabilities, and spacious interior make it a strong contender in the electric crossover market. While it might be on the pricier side for higher trims, the overall package of performance, comfort, and technology offers excellent value.