The Hyundai IONIQ 5 was named the first electric vehicle winner of MotorTrend’s SUV of the Year award on October 21, as per InsideEVs. The IONIQ 5 outranked 45 entirely new or remarkably redesigned SUVs, 25 of which were electrified.
According to PR Newswire, the IONIQ 5 beat its rivals by exceeding the award’s six main criteria: “safety, efficiency, value, advancement in design, engineering excellence and performance of intended function.”
It is worth noting that MotorTrend has been bestowing numerous awards for different vehicles for 74 years now. “For the first time in MotorTrend’s 74-year history, the majority of contenders vying for MotorTrend SUV of the Year were electrified, with hybrid, plug-in hybrid or full battery-electric power,” said Ed Loh, MotorTrend Group’s head of editorial.
“The sheer volume and capability of all contenders made it one of the most competitive SUV of the Year programs ever, which is great news for consumers looking for efficient, future-forward SUVs and crossovers.”
The American automobile magazine justified the awarding decision by stating: “The SUV of the Year winner stood out from the formidable competition thanks to its stellar looks, wonderful driving capabilities, roomy and comfortable cabin, efficient battery, and amazing value. The Hyundai IONIQ 5 is a game-changing rethink on what an SUV can be and is the first EV to win MotorTrend’s SUV of the Year award.”
The innovative 800-volt architecture of this Hyundai EV is praised by MotorTrend afterward. As opposed to the majority of electric cars on the road today, it enables the vehicle to fast-charge more rapidly.
Furthermore, its price of only about $40,000 makes it one of the cheapest electric vehicles currently available. To put competitors’ prices in perspective, the Ford Mustang Mach-E starts at roughly $50,000, and the Tesla Model Y costs close to $70,000.
“IONIQ 5 winning MotorTrend’s SUV of the Year recognizes Hyundai’s relentless focus on world-class product development, design, engineering and manufacturing,” said Jaehoon (Jay) Chang, President, and CEO, of Hyundai Motor Company.
“This is one of the most prestigious accolades in the automotive industry and we are honored that IONIQ 5 is being rewarded for its excellent range, fast-charging capability, progressive design, practical interior space and advanced technology,” he added.
Prior to MotorTrend’s SUV of the Year award, the IONIQ 5 has also received the following:
- 2022 World Car of the Year
- World Electric Vehicle of the Year
- World Car Design of the Year
- German Car of the Year
- UK Car of the Year
- Auto Express’ Car of the Year
- Auto Bild’s Electric Car of the Year
These accolades set Hyundai apart from rivals and distinguish the quality of its accomplishments from others as each automaker attempts to stand out in a competitive and evolving industry.
