The electric vehicle (EV) market continues to expand at a rapid pace. As automakers race to electrify their lineups, new models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Volkswagen ID.4 demonstrate the growing diversity of EVs available to buyers. Both are affordably priced electric crossovers aimed at mainstream buyers. But when comparing the Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs. Volkswagen ID.4, which one delivers better value?
Overview of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Volkswagen ID.4
As Hyundai and Volkswagen‘s first entries into the EV crossover segment, the Ioniq 5 and ID.4 represent each brand‘s vision for the future of sustainable mobility.
Launched in 2021, the Ioniq 5 sports a sleek, retro-futuristic design accentuated by pixelated LED lighting. Hyundai positions it as an "electrified urban crossover" fusing technology with environmentally responsible transport.
The ID.4 arrived shortly before in 2020 as Volkswagen‘s first global EV based on its new modular electric drive matrix (MEB) platform. As VW‘s initial volley into an ambitious EV strategy leading up to 2030, the ID.4 kicks off an entire ID-badged sub-brand.
Despite differences in styling and positioning, these two EVs fill similar needs for families and adventurers wanting a long-range electric crossover. Comparing critical metrics like pricing, range, performance, charging rates, driving aids, cargo space, and warranties reveals how they stack up.
Pricing: Hyundai Ioniq 5 Starts Higher but Offers More Standard Equipment
Pricing is always a significant consideration for shoppers. The table below compares MSRP pricing for the lowest and highest trims of the Ioniq 5 and ID.4 as of February 2023:
| Model | Base Price | Highest Trims |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5 | $41,450 | $58,835 |
| 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 | $38,995 | $55,245 |
At first glance, the ID.4 holds a pricing advantage with a $2,455 lower entry point. However, Hyundai packs more features into its base Ioniq 5 SE trim, including a long list of advanced driving aids. Volkswagen‘s entry ID.4 Standard trim lacks comparable equipment. To get similar driving aids on the ID.4, buyers must step up to the $43,995 Pro trim which narrows the price difference.
Fully loaded models see the Ioniq 5 Limited AWD trim extending its price lead further over the top ID.4 AWD Pro S Plus trim at $58,835 vs. $55,245. Yet both represent reasonable pricing ceilings for premium electric crossovers. Ultimately, the value comes down to equipment and capabilities covered throughout this comparison.
Driving Range and Charging: Ioniq 5 Holds Edge in Both Areas
Two pivotal considerations for any EV are max driving range and charging capabilities. Long range alleviates range anxiety over running out of juice mid-journey. Fast charging enables quicker turnaround when drivers need to top up the battery. Once again, the specifications reveal advantages in the Ioniq 5’s favor:
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Max Range: 303 miles (RWD Ioniq 5) vs. 275 miles (RWD ID.4)
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DC Fast Charging: 10-80% in 18 minutes @ 250kW (Ioniq 5) vs. 10-80% in 38 minutes @ 125kW (ID.4)
While falling short of the Ioniq 5’s numbers, the ID.4 still delivers excellent range and charging for an affordable electric crossover. Yet for road trippers or households with just one vehicle, the extra driving range and faster charging of the Ioniq 5 provide welcome flexibility. Both models also support home charging overnight on Level 2 240V chargers installed at owner‘s residences.
Performance: Instant Torque Acceleration Typical of EVs
The electric motors equipped in both crossovers deliver brisk acceleration familiar to EV enthusiasts:
- Ioniq 5: 225 to 320 horsepower depending on configuration
- ID.4: 201 to 295 horsepower depending on trim
Power gets distributed to either the rear or all four wheels. The most performant configurations hit 60 mph in around 5 seconds for the Ioniq 5 and 6.5 seconds for the ID.4. While not as fast as high-end EVs, drivers will still enjoy the instant torque supplied by both models. For most buyers in this segment, the performance easily meets everyday driving and highway merging needs.
Interior Space and Cargo Capacity: ID.4 Takes the Win
Part of the appeal of crossover SUVs involves interior roominess for passengers and cargo flexibility. Despite the Ioniq 5’s sleeker exterior dimensions, both models come through with similar passenger space. Yet when it comes to cargo capacity, the ID.4 offers noticeable advantages:
- Passenger Volume: 102 cu ft (Ioniq 5) vs. 99.9 cu ft (ID.4)
- Cargo Volume: 27.2 cu ft (Ioniq 5) vs. 30.3 cu ft (ID.4)
The ID.4’s more box-shaped design pays dividends in rear cargo space. For growing families using these electric crossovers as their primary household vehicle, the extra capacity to haul goods and gear makes the ID.4 better equipped. Still, both vehicles supply adequate room should owners occasionally need to taxi extra passengers or make runs to the home improvement store.
Technology and Driver Aids: Ioniq 5 Pulls Ahead
Modern vehicles increasingly incorporate technology that entertains occupants and assists drivers. The Ioniq 5 and ID.4 both cater well to tech-savvy buyers but a deeper look at the features reveals key advantages in Hyundai’s favor across these categories:
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Infotainment: 12.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto support standard on all Ioniq 5 trims versus smaller 10-inch touchscreen now standard for 2023 ID.4 after previously being lower trims only
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Advanced Driver Aids: Highway Driving Assist, Forward Collision Avoidance, Remote Smart Parking Assist all included starting on base Ioniq 5 SE trim versus only some standard on mid-level ID.4 trims
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Charging: 2 years of 30-minute charging sessions included at Electrify America stations nationwide with Ioniq 5 purchase versus 3 years included with ID.4
Although Volkswagen enhanced the ID.4 infotainment for 2023 models, Hyundai still delivers more tech-focused features. Combined with the extensive suite of high-tech driving aids packed into even base versions of the Ioniq 5, families receive more standalone functionality for their dollar without needing to move into higher cost trims.
Warranties: Hyundai Wins with Superior Coverage
Warranties provide critical protection should issues arise with new vehicles after purchase. Here as well buyers receive more coverage across the board with the Hyundai Ioniq 5:
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Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles (Ioniq 5) vs. 4 years/50,000 miles (ID.4)
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Powertrain Warranty: 10 years/100,000 miles (both models)
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Battery Warranty: 10 years/100,000 miles (Ioniq 5) vs. 8 years/100,000 miles (ID.4)
The extra year of comprehensive warranty coverage, plus an additional two years on the battery, demonstrates Hyundai‘s confidence in the Ioniq 5. For concerned buyers wanting that added peace of mind on a brand new EV model, the Hyundai holds an advantage.
Recent Updates: Volkswagen Enhances Features While Hyundai Boosts Towing
With both EVs still settling into the market, their respective manufacturers continue tweaking and improving them. For the 2023 model year, Volkswagen focused on correct previous limitations by making more features standard across ID.4 trims:
- 12-inch touchscreen now standard versus 10-inch previously
- Heated steering wheel and heated windshield now standard on higher trims
- Base Standard trim introduced with lower $38,995 starting MSRP
Hyundai took a different approach by expanding capability for 2023 Ioniq 5 models:
- Increased max tow rating to 2,300 pounds on SEL and Limited trims
- Added battery heating system for cold weather regions
- Added pre-conditioning so owners can prep temperature before entering vehicles
Which enhancements offer more practical value depends on individual priorities. For buyers wanting lower cost of entry or a warmer interior, VW’s additions hit the spot. Those needing to hitch up an electric trailer will appreciate Hyundai fulfilling that need.
Future Outlook: Expect Continued Updates to Range, Charging, and Self-Driving Tech
As pioneers in their respective model lines, the Ioniq 5 and ID.4 aim to deliver the innovations expected from automakers investing heavily in an electric future. Owners can anticipate ongoing updates in key areas:
- Battery Tech: Improved cell chemistry likely to increase range and charging speed
- Over-the-Air Updates: Expand capabilities without visits to the dealership
- Advanced Driver Aids: Systems advancing incrementally toward full automation for stress-free driving
Volkswagen also hints at more ID.4 derivatives coming down the pipeline, such as lowered coupe variants and a rumored high-performance GTX model. Expect both brands to carry forward strengths from their initial offerings while responding to consumer feedback for improvements.
Verdict: Hyundai Ioniq 5 Delivers More Value for Performance-Focused Buyers
For eco-minded families needing an affordable electric crossover balancing daily commuting duties with occasional road trips, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 holds key advantages as the better overall value:
- Sleeker styling turns more heads
- Higher range reduces stops at charging stations
- Faster charging provides flexibility while traveling
- More high-tech features included without jumping price tiers
- Industry-leading warranty terms add extra peace of mind
Make no mistake though: the Volkswagen ID.4 remains an excellent choice for many buyers wanting a practical electric crossover. Its spacious interior, lower cost of entry, and widespread public charging network courtesy of parent company Volkswagen Group give it widespread appeal.
Yet when evaluating these two EVs side-by-side, the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5 proves itself as the higher value play. For shoppers focused on performance, technology, and peace of mind, the Hyundai leads the pack as the electric crossover to beat.
