2023 Hyundai IONIQ 5 vs 2023 Kia EV6

Is the 2023 Ioniq 5 actually a better electric vehicle than the 2023 EV6? Let’s take a look at the overall packaging, style, and other elements of SUV ownership.

Electric SUV Platform

Since Kia is part of the Hyundai family, it is not too surprising that the two vehicles are built on a similar platform. This was designed specifically for electric vehicles, and that’s an advantage right out of the gate for both SUVs.

A rear wheel motor is standard for both rear wheel drive and all-wheel drive. Then, if has AWD, Hyundai adds a front-wheel motor. This is a definite advantage for those who want the rear-wheel drive Hyundai. Generally if there is just one motor, it is assigned to the front wheels.

Compared to the Kia, Hyundai engineers chose to give their EV a longer wheelbase. It’s also taller than its rival. Furthermore, the cabin has an open, flat front floor.

All of these elements result in a larger passenger volume for the Ioniq 5. There’s more second-row headroom, legroom, shoulder-room and hip-room. That’s good news for teens or adults who sit in the backseat.

Kia Demerits

Cutting into the EV6 spaciousness, the Kia has a raked roofline. This naturally makes rear visibility more difficult. That raked roofline is partly to blame for the fact that the Kia has less cargo space. In fact, 2023 Kia EV6 only has 24.4 cubic feet whereas the Hyundai claims a more reasonable 27.7 cubic feet.

Another difference is ride quality. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is known for a smooth ride quality. EV6 models tend to react more to the bumps in the road. As US News wrote, the Kia will “jiggle occupants around”.

Style and Atmosphere

The Ioniq 5 takes aim at a new and more futuristic aesthetic compared to the Kia EV6 and its conventional looks. The Hyundai design is enhanced by a higher quality of materials than you’d find in comparable Kias.

Here Hyundai is leaning into its status as the more distinct of the two brands. It’s what a Motor Trend journalist calls Hyundai’s visual sophistication. There’s just something more upscale about how the Ioniq 5 is dressed whether it’s the exterior or the interior.

When the Car Connection bestowed its Best Electric Car to Buy Award, they noted the “clever sense of style”. They also called it “striking”. Edmunds praises it for “step-ahead design” blended with real-world versatility. Forbes praises the chunky, handsome exterior and calls the interior “clean and well laid out”.

When Car and Driver named it to the 10Best list, they called it a “standout SUV” that has a “sleek design”. They noted how the cabin’s spaciousness is enhanced by its large windows. The front and rear seats are well-padded and comfortable.

The high-tech cabin offers a blind spot view monitor that sends a live feed to the rearview mirror. Augmented reality is utilized for a more helpful head up display. Limited trims are packed with premium materials that make the Hyundai seem like a luxury ride.

Performance and Handling

The Hyundai electric SUV wouldn’t have earned Car and Driver SUV of the Year without excellent drivability. The 2023 10Best judges noted that every Ioniq 5 trim is a joy to drive. They like the agile handling and praise the quick acceleration.

Edmunds writes that the Hyundai electric SUV has the top qualities needed, such as battery range and efficiency, to be a good value in the EV marketplace. The Edmunds judges call it “the epitome of what an electric SUV should be”.

For the 2023 model year, it must be noted that the Ioniq 5 manages to increase fuel efficiency and driving range for many of its models. DC fast charging times of just 18 minutes let the electric SUVs achieve 80-percent power while you grab a sandwich.

Battery pack electric ranges of 220 miles, 266 miles or 303 miles ensure that the electric SUV driver can enjoy peace of mind on long trips. Taking part of the driver’s burden, adaptive cruise control works with lane centering for highway driving.

Conclusion

With its long list of awards, the 2023 Ioniq 5 clearly pulls ahead of the 2023 Kia EV6. You’ll want to see it in person to learn more. Head for our Phoenix AZ Hyundai dealership to get all the facts.