The race for the best midsize electric SUV is heating up as automakers rush to release new and innovative consumer options. Nissan and Hyundai are examples of companies that recently released new electric car models, the Ariya and the Ioniq 5, respectively. These cars feature impressive performance powered by cutting-edge technology with sleek designs that cater to the modern driver‘s needs.
Indeed, they stand out in the crowded electric SUV market, and here’s some proof. There was so much hype around the release of the Ariya that Nissan had to restrict orders months after the launch. As for the Ioniq 5, the debut came after months-long anticipation and has remained such a popular option that, even today, it carries considerable wait time for new orders.
With both cars vying for the attention of the environmentally conscious, it’s only natural to wonder which wins. This comprehensive guide closely compares the Nissan Ariya vs. Hyundai Ioniq 5 to establish which reigns supreme across the most important categories.
Nissan Ariya vs. Hyundai Ioniq 5: An Overview
Before diving into the details, let‘s introduce both electric SUV contenders:
2022 Nissan Ariya
- Nissan‘s first all-electric crossover SUV
- Sleek, futuristic styling inside and out
- Single- or dual-motor AWD configurations
- Up to 389 hp and 442 lb-ft torque (dual motor)
- Estimated range up to 304 miles (dual motor)
- MSRP range from $43,190 – $60,190
- Began sales in fall 2022
2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5
- Retro-modern exterior and minimalist interior
- RWD and AWD options available
- Up to 320 hp and 446 lb-ft torque
- Estimated range up to 303 miles
- MSRP range from $41,450 – $56,500
- On sale since early 2022
As you can see, these are closely matched electric crossovers chasing after the same type of customer. Keep reading to see how they compare across the most important categories.
Exterior and Interior Styling
The Nissan Ariya features smooth futuristic body panels and flowing lines for a sporty, upscale look. The front grille gets a friendlier redesign than other Nissan models. Slim LED accents also trace the grille frame. The cabin prioritizes comfort and a clutter-free environment, with NASA-inspired Zero Gravity seats.
Alternatively, the Ioniq 5 goes for a blockier, retro-futuristic aesthetic. The Pixel LED lights exemplify the geometric styling, with their dynamic sequence that follows the car‘s lines. Inside, the Ioniq 5 forgoes flair for function. The flat floor allows a sliding center console to customize space. The minimalist dashboard integrates technology in a sleek package.
Winner: Tie
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, as they say. The Ariya wins points for its aerodynamic, concept-car looks. But the Ioniq 5 brings throwback charm mixed with high-tech appointments. Both vehicles have distinct aesthetics that will appeal to different tastes.
Performance and Powertrain
The Ariya offers single-motor FWD or dual-motor AWD configurations, producing up to 389 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. This allows acceleration from 0-60 mph in just 5.7 seconds. It uses Nissan‘s most advanced EV platform to date.
By comparison, the Ioniq 5 generates a maximum 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque. The sprint to 60 mph happens slightly quicker at 5.2 seconds. Power gets sent to either the RWD or AWD system, just like with the Ariya.
Winner: Nissan Ariya
While the Ioniq 5 posts faster acceleration times, the Ariya claims more powerful electric motor outputs. Having over 60 extra horsepower gives it an edge for drivers wanting max performance. The Ariya offers a thrilling, sports-car like drive.
Battery Range and Efficiency
The Ariya EV architecture allows a max driving range around 304 miles based on the most efficient configuration. Real-world range will vary between configurations, but count on at least 265 miles from the standard battery.
As for the Ioniq 5, RWD versions can achieve an estimated 303 miles per charge under optimal conditions. Standard AWD models provide about 244 miles of range. The Ioniq 5‘s aerodynamic profile and heat pump technology help it compete with the Ariya’s range.
Both EVs support fast charging rates up to approximately 350 kW, enabling drivers to replenish batteries from 10% to 80% in as little as 18 minutes in ideal high-powered charging situations. More commonly though, a 240V Level 2 home charger will fill batteries overnight.
Winner: Tie
There is no definitive range winner here, with both EVs hovering around 300 miles in best-case estimates. The numbers depend greatly on configuration and driving style. Overall, the Nissan and Hyundai matchup extremely well when it comes to battery range and charging capabilities.
Utility and Cargo Space
The Ariya offers 16.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind its second row. Folding down the 60/40 split rear seats expands that to 59.7 cubic feet total, which is ample room for this vehicle class. On AWD versions though, the cargo space gets reduced to 14.6 cubic feet behind the second row due to added hardware.
In comparison, the Ioniq 5 provides 27.2 cubic feet behind its second row and 59.3 cubic feet overall once the seats are down. Clever packaging like a center-mounted battery pack help maximize interior room in the 5-passenger cabin. There is also a front trunk ("frunk") that provides 0.85 cubic feet of extra storage.
Unique to the Ioniq 5 is the sliding center console, shown above. It glides up to 5.5 inches rearward, allowing flexible use of the open floor space. Additionally, you can fold the front passenger seat fully flat to accommodate longer cargo.
Winner: Hyundai Ioniq 5
With nearly double the cargo capacity behind its second row, the Ioniq 5 wins this category hands down. Smart space utilization and moveable components like the sliding console also set it apart from the Ariya. Families that frequently haul sports gear, luggage, or camping equipment will appreciate what the Ioniq 5 offers.
Tech and Connectivity
Modern vehicles operate more like smartphones, jam-packed with screens, customization options, and over-the-air updates. As Nissan‘s most high-tech crossover yet, the Ariya provides exactly that experience. Dual displays handle instrumentation, navigation, climate controls, and media. The system works seamlessly with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well. Higher trims add amenities like a panoramic moonroof, ambient cabin lighting, and a 10-speaker Bose audio system.
In the connectivity department, Hyundai gives nothing up to Nissan. The Ioniq 5 gets the same wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, along with a 12.3" color touchscreen. Even base models include driver assistance features like lane centering and adaptive cruise control. Upgraded trims pile on extras like a head-up display, digital key, and the same Bose premium sound found in the Ariya. Unique to the Ioniq 5 is its vehicle-to-load feature (shown above) that can provide up to 1,900 watts of power to external devices.
Winner: Tie
There are no game-changing differences in the tech and connectivity suites offered by Nissan and Hyundai. Both manufacturers load up the Ariya and Ioniq 5 with the cutting-edge features and creature comforts that customers expect. Dual screens, wireless smartphone integration, and awesome audio systems feature prominently in both vehicles. Overall this segment is too close to pick a winner.
Safety
The Ariya comes equipped with Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 system comprised of cameras, radar, and sensors for 360 degrees of coverage around the vehicle. This technology enables driver assistance features ranging from automatic emergency braking to blind spot monitoring and more. Nissan also plans to offer additional ProPILOT Assist features in future software updates.
For its part, Hyundai packs Ioniq 5 models with the latest version of their SmartSense safety suite. This includes driver attention alert systems, high beam assist to detect oncoming traffic, and even rear occupant alerts that detect movement after the car is locked. Upgraded Ioniq 5 versions also receive the Highway Driving Assist feature.
Both manufacturers back up these high-tech safety shields with an array of air bags, ABS brakes, traction control systems, and modern structural engineering. The result is 5-star crash test ratings and Top Safety Pick designations from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Winner: Tie
Once again, the Ariya and Ioniq 5 appear equally matched when it comes to safety technologies and crash protection abilities. Each company equips their electric SUV with comprehensive sensors and driver assistance features. While the underlying technology may differ, the end result ranks among the industry leaders for preventing accidents and mitigating collision impacts. This round ends in a definitive tie.
Towing Capacity
Although owners likely won’t hook up horse trailers or bass boats to their sleek electric SUVs very often, tow ratings still matter for lighter recreational loads. In this metric, Hyundai pulls ahead by a wide margin with a max tow rating of 2,300 pounds. The Ariya’s smaller frame limits it to just 1,500 pounds of towing capacity. Keep that difference in mind if you ever need to hitch up a small camper or jet ski trailer.
Winner: Hyundai Ioniq 5
The boxy Ioniq 5 chassis simply provides more robust towing capabilities compared to the lower-slung Ariya. Over 800 extra pounds can really make a difference for certain owners. Hyundai takes the trophy when it comes towing expectations.
Pricing
The 2023 Ariya lineup starts at $43,190 for the dual-motor Venture+ trim. Stepping up to the mid-level Evolve model brings the MSRP to $48,950. At the top end, the Ariya Platinum Plus AWD commands $60,190 before any tax credits or incentives. Keep in mind that Nissan‘s famous reliability reputation helps offset the payments for budget-focused shoppers.
MSRPs for the 2023 Ioniq 5 open at $41,450 for the SE Standard Range RWD edition. The SEL trim with both RWD and AWD options occupies the middle ground at $46,650 and $48,150 respectively. At the summit, the feature-laden Ioniq 5 Limited posts a starting price of $56,500.
Winner: Hyundai Ioniq 5
Across comparable trims fitted with AWD powertrains, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 holds a consistent price advantage over Nissan’s Ariya. Even when checking top-of-the-line versions loaded with options, the Ioniq 5 retail prices stay below those of the Ariya. Value-minded buyers who want plenty of equipment without breaking the bank will gravitate to Hyundai’s offering.
The Verdict: Which Electric SUV Comes Out On Top?
Let‘s summarize how Nissan‘s newest Ariya and Hyundai‘s game-changing Ioniq 5 compared by categories:
Exterior Styling: Tie
Interior Comfort: Tie
Performance: Nissan Ariya
Battery Range: Tie
Cargo Capacity: Hyundai Ioniq 5
Technology Features: Tie
Safety Ratings: Tie
Towing Capacity: Hyundai Ioniq 5
Pricing: Hyundai Ioniq 5
The final tally gives the Hyundai Ioniq 5 a slight edge as the overall winner in this competition. The Hyundai vehicle put up extremely close fights across most categories, but its higher utility and value ultimately push it over the top. That said, the technologically dazzling Nissan Ariya rates as an exceptional alternative for buyers wanting more motor power and stand-out styling. Regardless of which model you choose, both the Ariya and Ioniq 5 rank among the most appealing electric SUV options in today‘s marketplace.
