While the Ioniq 5 doesn’t have formal “City” or “Highway” drive modes, it behaves like two different vehicles depending on where you’re driving, thanks to its unique electric vehicle (EV) characteristics, regenerative braking system, and unexpected handling dynamics.
City Mode: Smooth and Surprisingly Engaging
Photo: Alan Davis
Around town, the Ioniq 5 feels almost purpose-built for urban driving. Its instant electric torque makes low-speed maneuvering effortless, and the highly customizable regenerative braking lets you tailor how the car slows down using steering wheel-mounted paddles. You can increase or decrease regen similar to “shifting” into different levels, giving the car a dynamic, responsive feel in traffic. Even better, the car supports true one-pedal driving, smoothly bringing itself to a complete stop without touching the brake pedal — a huge convenience in stop-and-go situations.
The combination of regen tuning, quiet operation, and sharp throttle response makes the Ioniq 5 feel surprisingly sporty and intuitive at low speeds. What catches most drivers off-guard is how fun it is to pilot in everyday scenarios — so lively that it feels more like a hot hatch than a compact SUV.
Highway Mode: Stable, Relaxed, and Refined
Photo: Alan Davis
Once the Ioniq 5 stretches its legs on the highway, it takes on a different personality. The same rear-biased power delivery that makes it playful in the city also helps it feel stable, balanced, and composed at higher speeds, behaving more like a sporty touring car than an SUV.
On long-distance drives, the Ioniq 5 also benefits from its exceptionally roomy cabin and near-silent powertrain, creating a relaxed, premium-feeling environment. Limited trims also include rear window sunshades to keep your passengers comfortable on long trips. For drivers used to noisy gas engines or harsher suspensions, the refinement often comes as a pleasant surprise.
And with the 2026 model capable of up to 318 miles of range in its most efficient configuration, the Ioniq 5 remains practical for long trips, reducing the need for frequent charging stops.
A real X factor for the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is Highway Driving Assist. This smart driver assist system combines adaptive cruise control and lane centering, which means far less stress in both higher speed or congested commutes. Highway Driving Assist 2, which comes on all but the base trim, adds lane-change assist, a further convenience.
Why It Drives Differently Than Most People Expect
Photo: Alan Davis
Many shoppers come to the Ioniq 5 expecting a quirky, design-forward EV with good capability — but the driving experience is where this SUV consistently surpasses expectations. Here’s why:
It’s more athletic than it looks: The rear-wheel-drive foundation gives it a lively, “rear push” feel uncommon in compact crossovers.
The braking system changes everything: Adjustable regen and the i-Pedal one-pedal driving provide a sense of control and immediacy more reminiscent of a performance hatchback than an SUV.
It’s unexpectedly refined at speed: Even with its playful around-town demeanor, the Ioniq 5 turns into a smooth, quiet highway cruiser — helped by its long wheelbase and EV architecture.
Its range makes it feel like a road-trip worthy car: Up to 318 miles of range means it performs more like a mature long-distance vehicle than a short-range commuter electric vehicle (EV).
