Hyundai promises bigger battery and longer range in Ioniq 5 refresh

Alongside the recent arrival of the Ioniq 5N, Hyundai have now announced a refresh of the whole Ioniq 5 electric SUV range.

The changes are being rolled out throughout the world, starting this month with Korea (where it is made). For the Australian market, the updates will be formally launched around the middle of this year.

The information released by Hyundai Australia so far includes an increased battery capacity for the long-range versions from 77.4 kWh to 84 kWh, giving a (yet to be specified) boost to the range. Given the battery is being increased by 8.5%, that would imply a range boost for the base long-range Ioniq 5 from 507 km to around 550 km.

Exterior changes include restyled front and rear bumpers that lengthen the model by 20 mm to 4.665 mm. (Height and width remaining unchanged). To improve its aerodynamic performance, the rear spoiler has been extended by 50 mm and more aerodynamic wheels introduced.

Interior changes involve a new steering wheel design and the arrangement of infotainment and air conditioning controls has been improved “to enhance operational convenience” (to quote the press release).

The centre console has been modified to include a physical button that can operate frequently used functions, such as the first-row heated and ventilation seats, heated steering wheel and parking assist function. In addition, the smartphone wireless charging pad has been relocated from the lower to the upper section of the console.

The software is also being updated, with the infotainment system to be fully updated to what Hyundai is calling a “connected car Navigation Cockpit” (ccNC).

New safety and convenience features to be added include a Hands-On Detection (HOD) steering wheel, Lane Keeping Assist 2, Remote Smart Parking Assist 2 (RSPA 2), and Forward/Side/Reverse Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist (PCA-F/S/R).

Hyundai will also be adding convenience features they refer to as ‘Intelligent Front-Lighting System’ (IFS), ‘Digital Key 2’, ‘Built-In Cam 2’, plus second-row seat remote folding.

Ride, handing and safety are also being improved. The updated Ioniq 5 will include improved shock absorbers for a smoother ride and a more rigid cowl crossbar to reduce vibrations through the steering wheel.

Reinforcement at the rear wheel and lower part of the vehicle has been doubled, which Hyundai suggests will improve stability and agility.

In addition, the front and rear doors and B-pillar parts have been reinforced to improve side collision protection. Further strengthening has also been added to the vehicle body to reduce low-frequency booming noise, motor noise control has been optimised plus additional sound insulation for the rear wheel motor has been added.

As noted above, Hyundai will announce the full specifications and WLTP range increases of the updated Ioniq 5 lineup closer to its mid-year Australian launch.