The Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 represent two of the most compelling electric family cars available today, sharing the same advanced E-GMP platform whilst offering distinctly different approaches to design and driving dynamics. Both Korean manufacturers have created vehicles that compete directly with premium electric SUVs like the Tesla Model Y and VW ID.4, with pricing ranging from around £40,000 to £48,000 for the Ioniq 5 and similar figures for the EV6 - or from around half that on the used market. These aren't just rebadged versions of the same car, either - each has its own character and strengths.
Both models received significant updates in 2024, with improved efficiency, larger batteries, and enhanced equipment levels. The Ioniq 5 takes a more minimalist, architectural approach to design with its sharp, retro-modern styling, whilst the EV6 positions itself as a sleeker executive crossover. With ultra-rapid 800V charging capability, generous equipment levels, and performance variants that rival traditional sports saloons, these two electric vehicles demonstrate how far Korean manufacturers have progressed in the premium EV segment.
Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs Kia EV6
Practicality
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 has a clear advantage when it comes to interior space and flexibility. Its 527-litre boot capacity usefully outshines the EV6's 490-litre offering, providing more room for family luggage and shopping. More importantly, the Ioniq 5's rear seats offer genuine limousine-like legroom and can slide forwards and backwards, with reclining backs for additional comfort. The flat floor throughout ensures even a middle passenger travels in reasonable comfort, whilst the spacious and airy cabin benefits from generous headroom front and rear.
The Kia EV6, whilst still offering excellent space by conventional car standards, feels more compact overall. Its 490-litre boot is still a good size and includes useful features like 60/40 split-folding rear seats and underfloor cable storage. The EV6 also offers additional practicality with a 52-litre front storage compartment on rear-wheel-drive models (20 litres on all-wheel-drive versions) and the ability to tow up to 1,600kg. However, high-specification GT Line S models lose 10 litres of boot space due to the subwoofer installation.
Both cars feature twin 12-inch screens and minimalist dashboard designs, though the Ioniq 5's interior feels more architecturally striking with its bold horizontal lines. The EV6's cabin materials are generally perceived as slightly higher quality, positioning it more as an executive car. For families prioritising maximum space and flexibility, the Ioniq 5 has a slight edge, whilst the EV6 appeals more to those wanting more of a premium feel.
Driving Impressions
The driving experience reveals notable differences between these platform siblings. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 delivers a serene, comfortable ride that prioritises relaxation over engagement. With rear-wheel-drive models producing 225bhp and achieving 0-62mph in 7.5-8.5 seconds depending on battery size, performance is more than adequate for family duties. The steering is light and consistent but rather numb, never encouraging spirited driving. Ride comfort is decent, remaining settled on motorways though showing some body float over high-speed undulations and lumpiness on urban roads.
The Kia EV6 offers a more engaging driving experience overall. Its 226bhp rear-wheel-drive variant achieves 0-62mph in 7.3 seconds, feeling slightly more responsive than the Ioniq 5. The EV6 handles better than its larger sibling, with superior body control and less top-heavy characteristics. However, the steering, whilst confidence-inspiring, can be unpredictable in the way it weights up through faster corners and lacks the feedback expected from a car positioning itself as a sports executive vehicle.
Both cars offer impressive four-wheel-drive variants, with 321bhp and 0-62mph time of just over 5 seconds. At the performance pinnacle, the Ioniq 5 N with 641bhp (0-62mph in 3.4 seconds) significantly outguns the EV6 GT's 577bhp (0-62mph in 3.5 seconds). The Ioniq 5 N is genuinely spectacular, whilst the EV6 GT, though impressive, doesn't quite match the Hyundai's performance credentials.
Performance models aside, however, it is the EV6 that offers the superior driving experience.
Technology and Equipment
Both vehicles come exceptionally well-equipped as standard, reflecting their premium positioning. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 Advance includes adaptive cruise control with semi-autonomous driving assistance, autonomous emergency braking, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless phone charging, keyless entry, heated seats, rear parking camera, and electric lumbar adjustment. The twin 12-inch screens aren't the sharpest graphically but offer intuitive operation with distinctive '90s-inspired graphics in the driver's display.
The Kia EV6 Air matches this equipment level with heated seats and steering wheel, climate control, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, auto LED lights and wipers, reversing camera, and vegan leather upholstery. The curved 12.3-inch dual screens offer excellent functionality, though the touch-sensitive control panel beneath the main screen can be fiddly to operate when switching between climate and shortcut functions.
Moving up the trim levels, the Ioniq 5 Premium adds adaptive LED headlights, part-leatherette upholstery, powered tailgate, and rear window blinds, whilst the N Line brings styling upgrades and four-wheel-drive availability. The EV6 GT Line includes wireless phone charging, blind spot warning, front parking sensors, electrically adjusted seats, and innovative vehicle-to-load charging capability. The range-topping GT Line S features a 360-degree camera, 14-speaker sound system, heated rear seats, sunroof, powered tailgate, and an impressive augmented reality head-up display that projects directional arrows onto the windscreen.
Both cars offer over-the-air software updates and comprehensive connectivity including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Running Costs
Both vehicles offer similar battery options and efficiency figures, making running costs broadly comparable. The Ioniq 5 is available with 63kWh or 84kWh batteries, delivering WLTP ranges of 273 and 320 miles respectively for rear-wheel-drive models (307 miles for all-wheel-drive with the larger battery). Home charging costs approximately £18 for the smaller battery and under £30 for the larger one, dropping to around half that on off-peak tariffs.
The Kia EV6 post-2024 facelift features the same 63kWh and 84kWh batteries offering up to 265 miles and 361 miles of WLTP range respectively. Pre-facelift, the EV6 was only available with a 77.4kWh battery, giving a range of up to 328 miles. A full charge costs under £30 on typical domestic tariffs, with similar potential savings on off-peak electricity. Both cars support ultra-rapid 800V charging, allowing 80% charges in around 18 minutes on 350kW chargers - a significant advantage over most electric vehicle competitors.
Purchase prices are competitive between the two, with both positioned similarly against rivals like the Tesla Model Y and Skoda Enyaq iV. The performance variants represent exceptional value - the Ioniq 5 N at around £64,000 offers remarkable performance per pound compared to equivalent petrol sports cars, though insurance and tyre costs will be considerably higher.
Insurance, servicing, and tyre costs will be similar between the two, with both benefiting from lower maintenance requirements compared to conventional engines. The EV6's slightly better efficiency and longer range give it a marginal advantage in day-to-day running costs.
Verdict
Choosing between the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 ultimately depends on your priorities as a buyer. The Ioniq 5 excels as a family-focused electric vehicle, offering superior interior space, a larger 527-litre boot, and exceptional rear passenger accommodation with sliding, reclining seats. Its minimalist, architectural interior design and serene driving character make it ideal for families prioritising comfort and practicality. The availability of the spectacular Ioniq 5 N also provides an unmatched performance option for enthusiasts.
The Kia EV6 positions itself more as a premium executive crossover, with slightly better build quality and more engaging handling. The longer 361-mile range post-facelift also provides a practical advantage for long-distance drivers.
Both cars offer good value (particularly as used buys), rapid charging capabilities, and comprehensive equipment levels that shame many premium rivals. For families needing maximum space and flexibility, the Ioniq 5 has a clear advantage. For buyers prioritising superior driving dynamics, the EV6 just about edges ahead. Either way, you're getting a great electric car.