For this instalment of our Used EV Review series, one of Ireland’s leading franchise dealerships, Hutton & Meade, provided us with the World Car of the Year winner, the Hyundai IONIQ 5. The IONIQ 5 is one of the most popular electric SUVs out there, and after reviewing a pre-owned one with a decent bit of mileage on the clock, we can see why.

Battery Health & Warranty

The Hyundai IONIQ 5 is equipped with a 73-kWh battery (70-kWh usable), offering a range of up to 500 km on a single charge. When it comes to charging, it’s capable of handling up to 11 kW on AC and over 200 kW on DC, achieving a 10-80% top-up in about 18 minutes if you find a fast enough charger, thanks to its 800V architecture.

This particular model includes a Type 2 charging cable, which is essential when purchasing a used EV. A good tip when buying a used EV is to always request a state of health report on the battery. Hutton & Meade supplied this right away, showcasing an impressive battery health of 100% after over 2 years of driving and nearly 80,000 km. This not only testifies to Hyundai’s battery technology but also demonstrates how proper charging and driving habits can effectively impact the longevity of the vehicle.

One of the benefits of buying a used EV from a reputable dealership is the available warranty coverage they provide. Typically, warranties are based on either mileage or time. The Hyundai we reviewed was still under warranty, offering 5 years of unlimited mileage and 8 years or 160,000 km on the battery. It’s always good to ask about the available warranty coverage and service intervals for any EV you’re interested in.

Interior Inspection

Considering the mileage and usage this EV has seen, the interior is in excellent condition, with little to no signs of wear. The infotainment system is sharp and up to date. The centerpiece of the interior is the dual 12.25-inch screens, one serving as the digital instrument cluster and the other as the infotainment touchscreen. The system offers a user-friendly interface and supports features like wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless connectivity and entertainment. When buying a used EV, you should ask if the vehicle has over-the-air updates. If not, check to see if the system you’re using is the most recent version.

In terms of space and practicality, the rear cabin is extremely comfortable, with plenty of legroom and two USB ports for added convenience. The boot offers up to 527 litres of storage, and extra space can be freed up by sliding the back seats forward. Additionally, you'll find some extra storage under the nose, or 'frunk', with a total of 57 litres on the rear wheel drive version and slightly smaller with the all-wheel drive version, which is ideal for storing charging cables.

How is it on the Road?

Hyundai has done a great job refining the electric powertrain. The electric motor is barely audible even under hard acceleration, and overall, it's incredibly quiet and exceptionally smooth. This is complemented by low road noise and only a whisper of wind noise around the door mirrors at motorway speeds.

The chassis strikes an excellent balance between comfort and control. While it doesn't offer the smooth, soft ride of a luxury car, it isn't harsh or uncomfortable either. Our test drive featured a model with 19-inch wheels, which might mean that versions with larger wheels could offer slightly less comfort. Another good tip is to ask your dealership about the cost of tyre replacements and maintenance advice. This will help you get an idea of the overall ownership costs of an EV.

You’ll also find regenerative braking paddles behind the steering wheel too, which effectively allows you to drive with a single pedal when braking distances are judged accurately, allowing you to convert energy back in the battery when you slow down and extend your range. Overall, it’s a fun car to drive, characterised by responsive steering, quick reactions, and a rear-drive setup that adds adjustability to the chassis.

Conclusion

As a used EV option, this IONIQ 5 drives and feels just like new. With a 100% state of health on the battery, pristine interior, and a smooth driving experience, there’s few drawbacks to pick out. Combining those with the over-the-air updates and comprehensive warranty offer, this Hyundai IONIQ 5 presents itself as a very compelling package.

Interested in finding out more about making the switch to a used EV? Take a look at our blog: How to Choose the Right Used EV for You.