At the start of 2021, the Korean automaker unveiled the second generation of its electric Ioniq 5 model, presenting a striking design with a CUV-inspired appearance.
The Ioniq 5 drew inspiration from the Hyundai 45 EV concept study, reflecting 45 years of the brand’s evolution. Constructed on the E-GMP platform, the vehicle boasted an extended wheelbase and a robust, powerful aesthetic. Its groundbreaking sci-fi design and angular, sculpted side panels marked a new era in the Korean manufacturer’s design philosophy.
Paying homage to Hyundai’s debut model, the 1975 Pony designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, the 2021 Ioniq 5 incorporated elements from its predecessor. The front featured a clamshell design that downplayed the grille and positioned the company logo on the hood. The impressive wheelbase for its class contributed to an exceptionally spacious interior.
Hyundai redefined minimalist design with the Ioniq 5’s interior. The dashboard was cleverly split into upper and lower sections, with a sparse arrangement of buttons on the center stack. The driver was greeted by a 12-inch TFT display for the instrument panel, complemented by a central 12-inch infotainment screen, both mounted on a shared panel. Front passengers enjoyed an integrated footrest for enhanced comfort during long trips. The rear accommodated three passengers comfortably, thanks to the flat floor and generous 3.0-meter (118-inch) wheelbase providing ample legroom.
The 2021 Ioniq 5 offered customers two powertrain configurations: a rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive setup or a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system. Buyers could also choose between two battery sizes. A significant technological advancement was the vehicle’s electrical system, supporting high-voltage, high-power charging up to 800 volts.