Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs Toyota bZ

The 2026 Toyota bZ was available in XLE and Limited trims, offering both single-motor front-wheel drive (FWD) and dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, with two battery size options. The larger battery, which was standard in the Limited trim, provided enhanced power, performance, and range, albeit at a higher cost. Prices ranged from $36,495 to $46,895, including the destination charge. The XLE test vehicle featured FWD and the optional larger battery, transforming it into the XLE Plus for an additional $3,000. The vehicle's exterior was improved with body-color trim, although some colors retained the black overfender trim. Inside, the dashboard and center console were redesigned for a cleaner look, and the fabric seats featured an upscale pattern. The center touchscreen was increased to 14 inches, integrating climate control, though the digital driver display remained a point of contention due to its placement and readability issues.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 combined a 1980s hatchback aesthetic with modern crossover SUV elements, resulting in a unique and attractive design. Its profile was distinctly hatchback, with angular lines and a character line that created a triangular shape. The front featured a visor slit with rectangular headlights, while the rear had an integrated spoiler and darkened panels. The XRT model stood out with 18-inch alloys, pixel-patterned cladding, and a more purposeful rally car look. Inside, the Ioniq 5 was utilitarian yet tech-savvy, with standard cloth upholstery and synthetic leather in higher trims. The tech included dual 12.3-inch screens and touch controls for the climate system, though the interior theme was somewhat cold due to limited color options.

The 2026 Toyota bZ offered a range of powertrain options. The XLE with FWD came with a single electric motor and a 57.7-kWh battery, delivering 165 horsepower and 198 pound-feet of torque, with an EPA-estimated range of 236 miles and an efficiency rating of 26 kWh/100 miles. Upgrading to the 74.7-kWh battery increased power to 224 hp and extended the range to 314 miles, though the Limited trim's range was slightly lower at 299 miles. Dual-motor models, available only with the larger battery, produced 338 hp and offered ranges of 288 miles for the XLE AWD and 278 miles for the Limited. The bZ could recharge from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes using a DC fast charger, and the larger battery required seven hours for a full charge with a Level 2 home charger. The bZ's driving experience was generally agreeable, though it lacked one-pedal driving capability and had some issues with traction control and steering feel.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 provided a variety of powertrain options, starting with a single-motor RWD setup that produced 168 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque in the base SE Standard Range trim, or 220 hp in other trims. The dual-motor AWD version increased output to 320 hp and 446 lb-ft, while the Ioniq 5 N performance model boasted up to 641 hp and 568 lb-ft. The Limited and XRT trims, both with dual-motor powertrains, offered robust power delivery and a 0-60 mph time of 5.3 seconds. The Ioniq 5 featured five regenerative braking settings, including a one-pedal driving mode. The Limited trim provided a smooth ride, while the XRT offered off-road capabilities with increased ground clearance and terrain modes. The Ioniq 5's handling was pleasant but not overly agile, with some lean in corners due to its weight.

The 2026 Toyota bZ was built on a skateboard-style EV platform, providing 8.1 inches of ground clearance and easy access. The front seats offered eight-way power adjustment, with heated and ventilated options in the Limited trim. The bZ lacked a traditional glove compartment but compensated with ample storage solutions, including a large bin under the center armrest and dual wireless smartphone chargers. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed generous legroom, though foot space was limited. The cargo area offered 27.7 cubic feet of space, expandable to 56.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, though the Limited trim had slightly less due to a JBL subwoofer.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 featured spacious front seats with standard eight-way power adjustment for the driver and heated front seats across all trims. The Limited trim added ventilated front seats and a "Relaxation" seat for the driver. The rear seat provided 39.4 inches of legroom, accommodating two adults comfortably. Cargo space was 26.3 cubic feet with the rear seats up, expanding to 58.5 cubic feet with them folded, plus a small front trunk. While slightly smaller than some gas-powered crossovers, the Ioniq 5's cargo space was competitive within its class.

The 2026 Toyota bZ came with a 7-inch digital driver display and a new 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The driver display was criticized for its placement and readability, while the infotainment system lacked a home screen for simultaneous data display. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with SiriusXM satellite radio and various connected service plans. The Drive Connect feature powered the native navigation system and voice assistant, which performed well in testing.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, both under a single piece of glass. Standard tech included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, built-in navigation, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Limited trim added a head-up display and a Bose audio system. The MyHyundai app allowed remote vehicle management, and the infotainment system was praised for its user-friendly interface and voice command capabilities.

The 2026 Toyota bZ was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which included features like forward-collision warning, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Proactive Driving Assist provided additional safety support, and the Limited trim offered Traffic Jam Assist and Advanced Park Assist. The bZ received mixed safety ratings from the IIHS, with high marks for front-crash avoidance but poor ratings for headlights and frontal-impact crash tests.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 came with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including blind-spot monitors, adaptive cruise control, and Hyundai's Highway Driving Assist 1. Optional features included a surround-view camera system and Highway Driving Assist 2. The Ioniq 5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, though NHTSA ratings were not available.