2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs 2023 Audi Q5

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 was a bold step into the future of electrified mobility, marking a departure from the original Ioniq's hybrid roots. It was the first model under Hyundai's new Ioniq sub-brand, dedicated solely to electric vehicles. The Ioniq 5's exterior design was a mix of minimalistic lines and intricate details, featuring a unique Parametric Pixel design that gave it a concept car-like appearance. The lighting elements, including headlights and taillights, were composed of pixelated patterns, creating a futuristic aesthetic. Inside, the Ioniq 5 offered a serene "Living Space" with a focus on comfort and sustainability, using recycled materials and offering features like a "Relaxation" mode for the driver's seat.

In contrast, the 2023 Audi Q5 maintained a classic yet sporty design with subtle curves and angular accents. Available in both SUV and Sportback body styles, the Q5's exterior was marked by a sleek silhouette and a spoiler-like element above the taillights. Inside, the Q5's cabin was refined, though its design was beginning to show its age since the last redesign in 2018. The interior featured leather seating, a 10-inch touchscreen, and a good amount of technology, though it lacked the modern flair of some competitors. The Q5's build quality was solid, providing a quiet and comfortable ride, but it didn't feel as special as it once did in the luxury SUV segment.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 offered a range of powertrains and configurations, with rear-wheel drive (RWD) as standard and all-wheel drive (AWD) available. The base SE Standard Range model featured a 128-kW rear motor producing 168 horsepower and a range of 220 miles. The extended-range models, available in SE, SEL, and Limited trims, had a larger 168-kW motor delivering 225 hp and 303 miles of range. The AWD variant boasted a dual-motor system with a total output of 320 hp and 446 lb-ft of torque, though the range dropped to 256 miles. The Ioniq 5's performance was middle-of-the-road for a midsize crossover, with a focus on comfort and control rather than sporty dynamics. It featured four drive modes, including Sport, which added excitement but reduced range. The Ioniq 5 was equipped with paddle shifters for adjusting regenerative braking levels, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2023 Audi Q5 offered three engine options, starting with the base 40 TFSI, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 201 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. The midrange 45 TFSI increased output to 261 hp and 273 lb-ft, and was the sole engine for the Q5 Sportback. The 55 TFSI plug-in hybrid delivered 362 hp and 369 lb-ft, with an electric-only range of 23 miles. All Q5s came with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and standard Quattro AWD. The Q5 Sportback with the 45 TFSI engine experienced a delay in power delivery due to the transmission, making initial acceleration feel sluggish. However, once underway, the power was adequate, and the Q5 handled well with precise steering. The Q5 balanced compliance and cornering, providing a comfortable ride with minimal noise intrusion.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 was built on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), offering a longer wheelbase than the seven-passenger Hyundai Palisade. With a wheelbase of 118.1 inches, the Ioniq 5 provided ample interior space, boasting a total volume of 133.7 cubic feet. It offered 106.5 cubic feet of passenger volume, prioritizing passenger comfort over cargo space. The interior featured soft touchpoints and a moveable center console, enhancing usability. The leatherette seats were comfortable and supportive, catering to a range of body types.

The 2023 Audi Q5's interior design had remained largely unchanged since 2018, but it continued to offer a functional layout with a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen. The Q5 provided good outward visibility, with ample space for taller passengers in both the front and rear seats. The Sportback model had slightly reduced headroom but still accommodated six-footers comfortably. Storage options were available, though some were oddly sized. The Q5 offered 25.8 cubic feet of cargo space, slightly less in the Sportback variant. The door pockets were spacious, accommodating larger drink bottles.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 was equipped with advanced technology, including a high-voltage, energy-dense system with vehicle-to-load capabilities. It supported ultra-fast charging, reaching 80% battery capacity in 18 minutes, and offered unlimited 30-minute fast-charging sessions for two years through Electrify America. The Ioniq 5 featured a redesigned Blue Link app, digital key, and over-the-air updates. The 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment were elegant and intuitive, with an anti-glare coating for improved visibility.

The 2023 Audi Q5 came standard with a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, offering sharp graphics and quick responses. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available wirelessly, though CarPlay took longer to activate. The Q5 featured a Bang & Olufsen audio system on higher trims and a customizable digital instrument panel. Audi Connect Care allowed remote monitoring and control via a smartphone app, with a Wi-Fi hotspot included for a limited time.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 featured Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and collision avoidance. It also offered Hyundai Highway Drive Assist I, a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system with machine-learning adaptive cruise control. The Ioniq 5 was expected to earn high safety ratings, though official scores were not yet available.

The 2023 Audi Q5 received five stars from the NHTSA for overall, frontal, and side protection, and four stars in rollover tests. The IIHS awarded it a Top Safety Pick+ with "Good" ratings in all crashworthiness tests. The Q5 came with advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added features like lane-keep assist, a surround-view camera, and matrix-design LED headlights.