The electric vehicle market in Australia has been evolving rapidly, with an increasing number of drivers embracing sustainable mobility without compromising on style, performance, or convenience. One model that perfectly embodies this new wave of motoring is the Hyundai Ioniq 5. Since its introduction, the Ioniq 5 has been making waves globally — and the 2025 model year is set to strengthen its reputation even further.
Hyundai’s vision for the Ioniq 5 has always been about more than just building another EV. It’s about redefining what an everyday car can be — futuristic yet practical, sustainable yet exhilarating, and packed with features that appeal to a wide range of drivers, from eco-conscious commuters to tech-savvy families.
In this in-depth review, we’ll explore design updates, performance, range, charging, tech, safety, comfort, pricing, and its position in the Australian EV market to see why the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 is turning heads across the country.
Striking Exterior Design
One of the first things you notice about the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is its bold, futuristic styling. Hyundai’s designers have managed to blend retro inspiration with cutting-edge aerodynamics, resulting in a hatchback that looks unlike anything else on the road.
The 2025 update introduces subtle refinements — sharper LED lighting signatures, slightly restyled bumpers for improved airflow, and new wheel designs that balance efficiency with style. The pixel-inspired headlights and taillights remain a standout feature, giving the Ioniq 5 a unique night-time presence.
Its short overhangs, long wheelbase, and clamshell bonnet contribute to an athletic stance, while aerodynamic sculpting helps maximise efficiency. The flush door handles, integrated roof spoiler, and clean panel surfaces make it clear this is a car designed for the future.
Hyundai also offers new colour options for 2025, including a matte finish that enhances the premium, concept-car-like appearance.
Interior – A Modern Lounge on Wheels
Step inside the 2025 Ioniq 5 and you’re greeted by a cabin that feels more like a lounge than a traditional car interior. Hyundai’s E-GMP platform allows for a flat floor, creating a spacious and airy feel.
The interior is minimal yet functional, with a focus on sustainability. Many materials are eco-friendly — think recycled plastics, bio-based fabrics, and eco-processed leather. The dashboard features dual 12.3-inch displays for the instrument cluster and infotainment, seamlessly integrated for a clean look.
The sliding centre console offers flexibility for storage and legroom, while the rear seats can recline and slide to maximise passenger comfort or boot space. Ambient lighting adds to the premium vibe, and the panoramic glass roof floods the cabin with natural light.
A key upgrade for 2025 is Hyundai’s next-gen infotainment software with faster processing, enhanced graphics, and improved voice commands. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remain standard, alongside a premium sound system that’s perfect for long drives.
Performance and Driving Experience
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 2025 comes with multiple powertrain options to suit different needs. The base rear-wheel-drive (RWD) variant offers a smooth, balanced driving experience with ample power for city and highway use. The all-wheel-drive (AWD) model, with dual motors, delivers sportier performance and instant torque for quicker acceleration.
Hyundai has fine-tuned the suspension for the 2025 model year, enhancing ride comfort without sacrificing handling precision. On Australian roads, it feels planted and composed, whether navigating urban streets or cruising along the Great Ocean Road.
Noise insulation is excellent, with minimal wind and tyre noise even at higher speeds. The instant torque delivery makes overtaking effortless, while regenerative braking allows for one-pedal driving in most conditions — a feature EV enthusiasts love.
Battery, Range, and Charging
Range anxiety is one of the biggest concerns for EV buyers, and the Ioniq 5 addresses this with confidence. The 2025 model offers improved battery efficiency thanks to software optimisation and better thermal management.
Depending on the variant, you can expect up to 500 km (WLTP) on a single charge — enough for most Australian drivers to go several days without plugging in. Charging capabilities remain a standout: the 800-volt architecture allows ultra-fast DC charging from 10% to 80% in as little as 18 minutes (when using a 350kW charger).
For home charging, a standard 11kW AC charger will fully replenish the battery overnight. The Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) feature continues to be a unique selling point, letting you power appliances, camping gear, or even another EV from your Ioniq 5.
Technology and Connectivity
Tech lovers will find plenty to enjoy in the Ioniq 5. The infotainment system is intuitive, with crisp graphics and responsive touch controls. Over-the-air updates ensure the car’s software stays fresh with the latest features and improvements.
A head-up display with augmented reality projects navigation and safety information directly onto the windscreen, reducing the need to glance away from the road. Hyundai’s Bluelink connected services app lets you remotely control functions like climate pre-conditioning, charging schedules, and vehicle location.
The integration of driver-assistance features is seamless, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automated parking. In the 2025 model, these systems benefit from improved sensors and faster response times.
Safety – Designed to Protect
Hyundai is known for its commitment to safety, and the Ioniq 5 continues to uphold that reputation. The 2025 version offers a comprehensive Hyundai SmartSense suite as standard across the range.
This includes:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with pedestrian, cyclist, and junction-turning detection
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance
- Safe Exit Assist to prevent passengers from opening doors into traffic
- Surround-view camera with 3D perspective
The Ioniq 5 has performed well in ANCAP testing, earning a 5-star safety rating, making it a reassuring choice for families and long-distance travellers alike.
Practicality and Storage
Despite its striking design, the Ioniq 5 remains a highly practical vehicle. The boot offers 531 litres of space with the rear seats up, expanding to over 1,500 litres when folded. There’s also a front storage compartment (frunk), perfect for storing charging cables or small bags.
The wide-opening doors and flat floor make entry and exit easy, while rear legroom is generous even for taller passengers. Families will appreciate the ISOFIX points in the rear and the flexibility of the sliding seats.
Pricing and Variants in Australia
The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 range in Australia is expected to start from the mid-$70,000s for the base RWD model, with the AWD and higher-spec trims pushing into the $90,000 range. While it’s not the cheapest EV on the market, the Ioniq 5’s blend of style, performance, and features justifies the price tag for many buyers.
State-based EV incentives and federal fringe benefits tax (FBT) exemptions can help bring down ownership costs, making it more accessible to fleet buyers and salary-sacrifice schemes.
Competing Models
In the Australian market, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 faces competition from the Kia EV6, Tesla Model Y, Polestar 2, and Ford Mustang Mach-E. However, its unique combination of retro-futuristic design, ultra-fast charging, spacious interior, and advanced tech sets it apart.
For drivers prioritising style, comfort, and quick charging capability, the Ioniq 5 remains one of the most compelling options.
Final Verdict
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 2025 isn’t just another electric hatchback — it’s a statement. From its head-turning design to its cutting-edge technology and impressive range, it represents the future of motoring without losing sight of everyday practicality.
For Australian buyers looking for an EV that combines performance, comfort, and standout style, the Ioniq 5 deserves a spot at the top of the shortlist. Whether you’re making the switch to electric for the first time or upgrading from an older EV, the 2025 Ioniq 5 offers a driving experience that’s as exciting as it is sustainable.
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