As the world tilts closer to sustainability, it’s only natural that the automotive industry would experience quite a shift. Electric vehicles are making their way onto the roadways in droves, and if you’re wondering which electric vehicle is right for you, you have quite the decision to make. After all, nearly every automaker has an EV unveiled by now, so how can you possibly choose? Two options have been creating quite the buzz in the industry, but when comparing the 2022 Volkswagen ID.4 Electric Vehicle vs 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5, which is better? Although everyone has a different definition of what “better” means, the main focus is the quality of the drive, and it’ll soon be clear that one EV steals the show when it comes to staying comfortable on the road.
Interior Comfort
One of the most impactful elements of your ride is the interior. If you’re uncomfortable during your time behind the wheel, the quality of the drive suffers, which means that you won’t be enjoying the road as you should. Thankfully, with the ultra-modern, ultra-sleek interior of the 2022 Volkswagen ID.4, your ride will be elevated to excellence. With a contemporary design accented by contoured leatherette seats and high-quality materials creating an air of cozy sophistication, sinking into the feeling of the drive is easy inside this VW EV. Its panoramic fixed glass roof allows for breathtaking views of the skies above, creating your own personal oasis, even when you’re stuck in traffic.
Despite the fact that the Ioniq 5 looks fairly appealing outside, the inside is a little bit of a different story. You would think that its modern radiance would be showcased inside and out, but unfortunately, the interior of the Ioniq 5 is pretty plain. It does include many sustainable materials, such as recycled plastic and plant-based fabric; however, the overall style is lacking. When it comes to the interior experience, our vote is the ID.4 and its elegant, refined, and comfortable cabin space that impresses you as soon as you cast a glance its way.
Cargo Expectations
Another factor that greatly affects the quality of the drive is how accommodating your vehicle is, especially when you need space for stuff. Travel gear, sports equipment, baby necessities, and so much more can wind up in your vehicle, and if you don’t have a car that can handle it, your drive will be impacted. The 2022 ID.4 is known for its spacious interior, accommodating passengers with plenty of legroom and a comfortable backseat, and handling plenty of cargo in the trunk. Providing 64.2 cu.ft. of cargo space, the ID.4 is capable of handling it all, and with plenty of storage throughout the cabin, staying organized on the road is effortless.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is smaller than the ID.4; that much is certain. It only offers a maximum of 59.3 cu.ft. of interior cargo space, although there are also hidden storage compartments to come to the rescue if needed. It does showcase a longer wheelbase, providing more room for passengers, as well as thinner seating materials to make more room inside. In the end, however, the cargo hold matters, and its cargo hold can’t accommodate as much as the ID.4.
The Ride
Feeling every bump of the road or not having the steering responsiveness you need can really put a damper on your travels. You want to be sure that you feel secure and controlled, no matter the road condition, and comfortable, even in bumpy environments. The experience you can expect in the ID.4 is exquisite, showcasing a brilliant ride that’s both calming and exciting. Furthermore, the quiet ride makes for a serene cabin, isolating you from the noise of the road and the traffic surrounding you. A lower battery position provides a more well-balanced vehicle, thus resulting in enhanced performance and refinement during your travels.
Although the Ioniq 5 is also smooth and controlled, drivers have reported that its steering could use some work, as it’s a bit disconnected at times. Suspension is also another factor that has drivers talking, wishing for a firmer ride. Despite these challenges, the Ioniq 5 is quick and agile, which appeals to many drivers; however, steering and suspension are major factors in the quality of the drive. Unfortunately, the Ioniq 5 fails to deliver here.
Range Expectations
You don’t want to worry about your vehicle running out of battery before arriving at your destination. This can negatively affect the quality of the drive since it will undoubtedly result in much more stress. Both EVs showcase spectacular range, which allows them to compete with the best. The 2022 Volkswagen ID.4 is armed with an 82 kWh battery for an EPA-estimated range of up to 275 miles when choosing RWD or 251 miles when opting for AWD capabilities. The ID.4 also boasts improved charging capabilities this year, with its DC fast-charging speed elevated to 135 kW.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 has a selection of battery options, with its 58 kWh base option able to travel 220 miles on a single charge. More options are available to increase this range, but it’s unfortunate that the base models don’t even come close to the ID.4’s exceptional range. Both EVs feature multiple methods for charging, including home charging stations, DC fast charging, and public charging adapters, making it easy to stay charged up and ready to embark on any journey.
Safety Standards
The final component of the overall drive is safety. Let’s face it, a lot is going on out on the road, and it helps if you have a vehicle watching out for you when you need it the most. As an IIHS Top Safety Pick+, the ID.4 showcases a lineup of safety and driver-assist features that can’t be beat, many of which come standard. From Autonomous Emergency Braking to Lane Keeping Assist, the ID.4 makes it easy to stay safe and confident behind the wheel.
Like the ID.4, the Ioniq 5 is also an IIHS Top Safety Pick+, featuring its fair share of driver-assist features. Unfortunately, many of these features are not standard, including Blind-Spot View Monitor, Evasive Steering Assist, and more. Although both vehicles will keep you safe, you’ll pay more to have some features in the Ioniq 5 that come standard in the ID.4.
2022 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5
So, when it comes to the quality of the drive, who wins? Well, from interior comfort and spaciousness to cargo volume, range, safety features, and more, the ID.4 proves that it’s the obvious choice in this competition. Unfortunately, the Ioniq 5 just can’t keep up, with less cargo space, less range in its base model, and fewer standard driver-assist features. When comparing the overall comfort of the drive, the Ioniq 5 fails to deliver with subpar steering and a suspension system that needs a little fine-tuning.
If you’re curious about EVs, both options are outstanding; however, if you’re interested in maintaining an exceptionally comfortable ride, the ID.4 is the winner. It has what it takes to wow you on the road, and it features a cabin space designed with the modern driver in mind. Plus, with all of the standard driver-assist features and smooth driving dynamics, it’s no wonder why so many drivers are intrigued by this electrified Volkswagen superstar.
