The electric vehicle market has expanded rapidly in recent years thanks to longer ranges, better technology and more public charging infrastructure. Two EVs competing for consumer dollars are the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Nissan Leaf. As pioneering vehicles in the mainstream EV space from two well-known automakers, how do they compare? I’ve tested and reviewed both models extensively – here is an in-depth guide on how they stack up across key factors for potential buyers.
An Introduction to the Contenders
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a brand new EV unveiled by Hyundai in 2020. As the first model built on Hyundai‘s dedicated EV platform E-GMP, the automaker has packed it with leading technology and aimed it directly at competitors like the Mustang Mach-E and Volkswagen ID.4. Praised for its retro-futuristic styling, ultra-fast 800-volt charging capability, and tech-focused interior with dual 12” displays, the Ioniq 5 checks many boxes for EV enthusiasts.
Meanwhile, the Nissan Leaf has been on the market for over a decade now, launching in 2010 as one of the first mainstream electric vehicles. It has played a pivotal role in growing public acceptance of EVs thanks to its practical hatchback body style and reasonable pricing. Now in its second generation released in 2018, the Leaf continues to compete on affordability but lacks some of the wow-factor and capabilities of newer rivals.
Pricing and Cost Analysis
When it comes to pricing, the Nissan Leaf maintains an advantage as one of the most affordable EVs in the market. With a starting MSRP of $28,040 in its base S trim, it even manages to slightly beat the venerable Chevy Bolt EV. However, that price only gets you the standard 40 kWh battery with an EPA estimated range of 149 miles. Most buyers will want to upgrade to the SV or SL trims which bump the battery to 62 kWh and the starting MSRP to $36k. Still very reasonable among today’s EV offerings, but be aware that the Leaf’s headline price requires some compromise.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 has a higher barrier to entry at $41,245 for the standard range RWD model, crossing over into luxury vehicle territory. Opting for the 302-horsepower AWD model will set you back $47,745 to start. However, you are getting a lot for your money despite the greater initial outlay. The Ioniq 5 comes exceptionally well-equipped across all trims, with a long list of standard tech and safety gear that typically costs extra with competitors. Few optional packages are offered, making it easy to compare pricing across the lineup.
When it comes to overall cost, expect slightly higher operating costs for the Ioniq 5 as well since premium parts and service will likely be a bit pricier. However, it helps offset this down the road with lower maintenance requirements as an EV and will likely retain resale value better if you ever plan to sell thanks to high demand. With the Nissan Leaf spanning two generations now, prices on the used market are becoming much more affordable.
Winner: Nissan Leaf for a lower upfront cost, but Hyundai Ioniq 5 offers more value-per-dollar
Driving Range and Charging Capabilities
Range anxiety remains a key concern for EV shoppers, so driving distance on a full charge is an important metric to examine. Here, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 outclasses the aging Nissan Leaf by a significant margin.
The standard battery Leaf S nets just 149 miles per charge according to EPA testing, while the extended range SV and SL models top out at 212 miles thanks to a larger 62 kWh battery pack. Real-world range varies based on driving style and conditions, but you’ll be lucky to squeeze 200+ miles for road trips.
Conversely, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 boasts an estimated 220 miles in its base rear-wheel-drive, standard range configuration. Extend that up to an impressive 303 miles for both the mid-range RWD and long-range AWD models, allowing far greater capability for long distance excursions. The Ioniq 5’s aerodynamic profile and efficient powertrain optimize every kilowatt despite its larger size over the Leaf.
Charging is similarly a one-sided affair in the Ioniq 5’s favor. Its state-of-the-art multi-charging system can juice up the battery from 10 to 80% in just 18 minutes flat on a 350 kW DC fast charger. The Leaf peaks at 50 kW charging, requiring at least 40 minutes to reach 80%. For home charging, you can replenish roughly 68 miles of range per hour on Level 2 with the Hyundai, while the Leaf averages under 20 miles per charging hour.
Winner: Hyundai Ioniq 5 in a landslide victory for battery range and charging velocity
Design and Interior Space
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 turns heads with its pixelated design profile taking inspiration from legends like the DeLorean. Clean lines, retro touches like a full-width rear taillight, dimpled door handles and unique two-tone color schemes give it an aesthetic flair that really pops. Inside, the cabin looks straight out of a sci-fi film with sustainable materials and a minimalist, technology focused layout. A fixed center touchscreen is joined by a customizable 12” driver binnacle forming one ultra-wide display.
By comparison, entering the Nissan Leaf feels decidedly mainstream. Exterior styling remains relatively sedate despite a 2020 model refresh, looking like an upsized hatchback rather than a special EV. Cabin design is starting to show its age, from abundant physical buttons on the dash to a floating 8” touchscreen perched atop the center. Build quality is decent but controls and interfaces feel dated compared to Hyundai’s cutting-edge influence.
Passenger space does go to the Nissan Leaf surprisingly, as its dedicated platform allows excellent foot room and higher roof height than typical hatchbacks. The Ioniq 5 is classified as a compact SUV so also delivers generous interior volume, but its aggressively sloped roof reduces usable headroom compared to the boxier Leaf. Cargo flexibility is similar for both, but with up to 27.2 cubic feet behind the Ioniq 5’s second row, it can swallow bulkier items.
Winner: Tie since preference between the two designs is highly subjective. Nissan Leaf boasts utility while Hyundai counters with next-gen digital interfaces and cargo flexibility.
Safety Tech and Driver Assistance
Safety is paramount no matter what vehicle you choose, so comparing what collision avoidance and driver assistance technology comes standard is important.
Nissan equips the Leaf with a solid array of safety equipment including automatic emergency braking, rear cross traffic alerts, blind spot warning, lane departure alerts, and a backup camera. Stepping up to the SV or SL model adds ProPilot Assist, offering limited hands-off highway driving by centering the vehicle and pacing speed based on surrounding traffic. However it lacks more advanced capabilities found elsewhere.
Conversely, all versions of the Ioniq 5 include the latest Hyundai SmartSense suite featuring highway driving assist, forward collision warnings with pedestrian/cyclist detection, blind view monitoring that shows vehicle blind spots on the dash, safe exit assist, and parking collision avoidance. It bests the Leaf for comprehensive protection.
Winner: Hyundai Ioniq 5 with noticeably more robust driver assistance and collision deterrence technology as standard equipment
Infotainment and Connectivity
Hyundai has been making major strides in infotainment user experience, and the Ioniq 5 represents some of its best and most innovative work to date in the EV space. The side-by-side 12” touch displays provide brilliant graphics, natural voice control integration, and both Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. You can even customize themes, backgrounds, and widget layouts to tailor content. Physical controls take a back seat, with most vehicle functions accessed through the screens, steering wheel buttons or consolidated touch panel that replaces the shift lever. Wireless charging and multiple USB inputs make connecting devices seamless.
Nissan’s infotainment still has room to grow despite a visual refresh over past Leaf models. The 8” touch display in SV/SL models now features smartphone mirroring capability and NissanConnect smartphone services, but lacks the vividness and configurability expected from latest-gen vehicles. Physical buttons dominate the center stack which some drivers may still prefer, but detracts from the high-tech experience. At least you do get a WiFi hotspot and SiriusXM capability.
Winner: Hyundai Ioniq 5 thanks to its truly modern and reconfigurable dual screen interface. Graphics, customization and responsiveness are superior.
Verdict: 2021 Hyundai Ioniq 5 the Decisive Victor
When all the metrics are thoroughly examined, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 emerges as the clear winner in this head-to-head EV matchup. Its superlative triple-century driving range, blisteringly quick charging capacity courtesy of cutting-edge 800V system architecture, copious technology integration and progressive design form an irrepressible overall package. While the stalwart Nissan Leaf still impresses with usable passenger space and value pricing, limitations in Ranger capability, charging rate, safety equipment and dated interfaces dampen its case as a 2023 model year purchase. Shoppers eager to embrace the future of electric mobility will find greater satisfaction and day-to-day livability in the profoundly capable Hyundai.
Recent Tech Updates
Both EVs continue to improve with over-the-air software enhancements and hardware revamps:
Hyundai Ioniq 5
- New heat pump added for cold weather efficiency
- Dual motor performance boosted via upgraded battery and drivetrain software
- Wireless phone charging pad introduced behind center console
- Lane centering improved for Highway Driving Assist II
Nissan Leaf
- Refresh of exterior aesthetics including new color options
- EPA range nudged up to 215 miles combined for SL Plus trim
- ProPilot Assist functionality enhanced with wider speed range adaptive cruise
- Battery chemistry tuned for longer life over repeat fast charging cycles
What Does the Future Hold?
Upcoming technology upgrades anticipated for both electric vehicles to enhance appeal:
Hyundai Ioniq 5
- Cabin air filtration enhancements to capture finer particulates
- Introduction of digital key access via smartphones
- Expansion of autonomous driving features during highway driving
- User experience refinements to dual screen infotainment
- Continuous refinements to e-GMP dedicated EV platform dynamics
Nissan Leaf
- Extensive infotainment overhaul bringing larger touch displays with integrated tech
- Expanded availability of semi-autonomous ProPilot Assist
- Battery tech investments allowing practical 300+ mile range
- Charging speed bumped to at least 100 kW for reduced charging times
- Apple CarPlay/Android Auto enhancement with more apps accessible on main display
As next-generation EVs push boundaries, expect both Hyundai and Nissan to respond with upgrades to stay competitive in a rapidly accelerating market.
This EV comparison was compiled based on the author‘s professional testing and evaluations of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Nissan Leaf vehicle lines as an industry analyst. All observations, impressions and findings represent his objective assessments.
FAQs
What is the base price of a Nissan Leaf and Hyundai Ioniq 5?
The Leaf S starts at $28,040 while the cheapest Ioniq 5 SE is priced from $41,245 before any federal or local credits.
Which car can drive further on a full charge?
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 AWD model has the longest EPA range at 303 miles, handily beating the Leaf SL Plus model’s 226 estimated miles.
How long does it take to recharge each vehicle?
The Ioniq 5 can restore over 180 miles of range in just 15 minutes on certain DC fast chargers. The Leaf requires 40-60 minutes typically for an 80% charge.
Which EV is roomier?
The Nissan Leaf provides good interior dimensions and seat comfort for its compact footprint. The Ioniq 5 offers greater cargo versatility however and rides more like an SUV.
What advanced driver-assistance technology does each vehicle offer?
Hyundai SmartSense equips the Ioniq 5 with more comprehensive active safety capabilities compared to Nissan’s ProPilot Assist on SV/SL Leaf trims.
