2026 Hyundai IONIQ 5

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 was introduced in 2022, and it quickly became not just one of our favorite electric vehicles but also one of our favorite cars, period. And what's not to like? It's practical, enjoyable to drive and packed with technology features. Most versions also have a helpful range — potentially more than 300 miles on a full charge — that you can quickly replenish thanks to the vehicle's ability to rapidly charge at certain public fast-charging stations.

Hyundai makes enough versions of the 2026 Ioniq 5 that you should be able to find one that matches your needs and budget. If a low price is a priority, there's the entry-level Ioniq 5 SE Standard Range. It features a lower-capacity battery, which limits its range to an EPA-estimated 245 miles on a full charge, but it otherwise comes with plenty of features. From there, there's the better-equipped SEL (our favorite), the luxury-like Limited, and the XRT, which has some mild off-road aspirations. Hyundai even sells the high-performance Ioniq 5 N, a bonkers 641-horsepower EV.

There's no shortage of competition for the Ioniq 5. The Tesla Model Y is a best-seller and will be compelling if you want more cargo space than the Ioniq 5 can provide. Other considerations include the low-priced Chevrolet Equinox EV, the sporty Ford Mustang Mach-E and the sensible Volkswagen ID.4. The Ioniq 5's corporate cousin, the Kia EV6, is another compelling alternative if you don't vibe with the Ioniq 5's retro-futuristic styling.