Improved ride quality and subtle styling options are among the changes.
Here in the United States, the handsome Hyundai Ioniq 5 is still a very fresh product. In fact, the first example in California was delivered as recently as December 2021, and will undoubtedly be the first of many as consumers fall for the design and appealing starting price of $43,650 before tax credits.
Hyundai has wasted no time in enhancing the Ioniq 5, announcing changes for the European 2023 model year. The updated model will now be available with the 77.4 kWh battery, already available in the USA since its local debut. The carmaker claims a range of 303 miles with a single motor and 256 when equipped with dual motors – both on the WLTP test cycles.
This is possibly in response to Ford increasing the battery size of the Mustang Mach-E. After all, the Mach-E is a fierce competitor to the Ioniq 5. But that's not all.
The Ioniq 5 will gain a video-based digital interior mirror which, says Hyundai, will improve rear visibility by providing a clear, panoramic rear-facing view. The digital mirror receives a feed from the camera sited just below the Ioniq 5's rear spoiler.
In an attempt to reduce air resistance and aid in efficiency, Hyundai will also offer digital side mirrors. While this tech is already available for South Korean models, it will be the first time a Hyundai is offered the option in Europe. Borderline gimmicky, the clever system does provide excellent visibility in poor weather conditions. With the USA not ready to adopt this technology just yet, it's doubtful whether Hyundai will offer this to American consumers.
But there are other refinements we can enjoy when the updated Ioniq 5 reaches our shores. A new battery conditioning feature will allow the electric Hyundai to adapt its battery temperature (while traveling) to ensure ideal charging conditions when arriving at the charging station. This will be of great use to motorists living in colder climates, improving charging performance at low ambient temperatures. Cleverly, this automatically activates when a charging station is entered into the navigation.
Hyundai has also improved the ride quality, with a Smart Frequency Dampers function which improves the response of the suspension. Lastly, non-painted black bumpers and black trim will give the Ioniq 5 a more distinct look and can be specified in conjunction with Projection LED lighting. European customers can expect the electric SUV to arrive in the second half of 2022. American updates will likely be confirmed in the coming months, but are unlikely to be as substantial.
Keyword: Hyundai Giving The Ioniq 5 A Bigger Battery For 2023