In a segment increasingly crowded by copy-paste electric crossovers, the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 stands as a masterclass in design and engineering. Specifically, the Preferred Long Range AWD trim equipped with the “Ultimate” package elevates this already compelling EV into a genuinely premium experience, blending 80’s retro styling with the kind of daily-drivable refinement that sets the benchmark for EVs.
Performance
The heart of the Ultimate trim is its dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain, drawing energy from a robust 84 kWh battery pack. Producing a combined 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque, this Ioniq 5 doesn’t just move, it lunges. The instantaneous torque delivery, typical of high-performance EVs is present here, but it is calibrated with a sophisticated smoothness that avoids the “neck-snapping” gimmickry found in other competitors. Whether you are merging onto a rain-slicked highway or executing a quick overtake, the HTRAC all-wheel-drive system provides relentless traction, ensuring that power is deployed with clinical precision.
As for range, the single-motor version is capable of driving from Vancouver to Whistler and back with charge left to spare. It is rated for up to 504 km (313 Miles). This dual-motor version is rated for up to 463 km (287 Miles) but if you’re gentle on that accelerator pedal and limit your climate control usage, then you can probably squeeze over 500 km of range.
Handling Dynamics
Despite its SUV proportions, the Ioniq 5 feels surprisingly nimble. The heavy battery pack, mounted low in the chassis, gives the vehicle a planted, confident center of gravity. Steering is sharp enough to be engaging on a winding back road, yet sufficiently light for effortless urban maneuvering. While it is not a sports car, its composure through corners is commendable; the suspension setup balances firm support with the ability to soak up the imperfections common on Canadian roads, leaving the driver feeling connected to the tarmac rather than isolated from it.
Comfort
If the performance is the hook, the interior is where the Ioniq 5 seals the deal. The Ultimate package transforms the cabin into a sanctuary. The seats are ergonomically sculpted, providing excellent support for long-distance cruising. The generous wheelbase allows for exceptional rear-seat legroom, even if there are 3 adults back there. Because it is an EV, the cabin remains eerily quiet, with wind and road noise masterfully suppressed. Feature-wise, the inclusion of the 12.3-inch digital cluster and navigation system, paired with intuitive climate controls and premium sustainable materials, ensures that the driving environment feels as futuristic as the exterior silhouette.
Styling
The Ioniq 5 remains one of the most visually striking vehicles on the road. Its “Parametric Pixel” design language is a bold, neo-retro gamble that has paid off in spades. It possesses a presence that demands attention without resorting to aggressive, jagged lines. The proportions are balanced, and the clean surfaces give it a cohesive, concept-car aesthetic that has transitioned perfectly into production. It looks just as at home parked in front of a modern downtown condo as it does on a scenic coastal highway.
Conclusion
The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a triumph of modern motoring. It manages to balance the raw excitement of dual-motor EV performance with the practical, high-tech comfort that families and commuters alike crave. In the Canadian landscape, where capability and range are paramount, it stands as a top-tier choice. For those seeking to make the leap to electric without compromising on character or quality, the Ultimate trim, priced at $63,499 CAD, offers an irresistible proposition.
Thank you to Hyundai Canada for providing the Ioniq 5. www.HyundaiCanada.com
2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 Gallery
