Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs Hyundai Ioniq 5

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 was a bold step into the future of electrified mobility, marking a departure from its predecessor with a fresh design and innovative features. It showcased a sleek exterior with minimal character lines, yet upon closer inspection, it revealed a complex array of design elements. The Parametric Pixel design was a standout feature, with pixelated lighting elements that gave the vehicle a concept car feel. Inside, the Ioniq 5 offered a serene "Living Space" theme, with a focus on comfort and sustainability. The interior was crafted with recycled materials and featured a Relaxation mode for the driver's seat, emphasizing a tranquil driving experience.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid maintained a more traditional SUV appearance with minimal changes from previous models. It featured a new Cypress Green paint option but retained its over-styled design, characterized by exaggerated forms and a lack of subtlety. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid's cabin was spacious but lacked elegance, with oversized elements and mismatched textures. Despite its size, the interior quality was questionable, with controls and materials that felt inexpensive. However, it provided a quiet ride, focusing on practicality over aesthetics.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 offered a range of powertrains, with the base model featuring a 125-kW rear-mounted electric motor producing 168 horsepower and a range of 354 kilometres. The Preferred long-range variant increased power to 225 hp and offered a range of 488 kilometres. The AWD version boasted 320 hp and 446 lb-ft of torque, with a range of 414 km. The Ioniq 5 provided a balanced driving experience, with four drive modes, including Sport, which added excitement but reduced range. The vehicle's quiet cabin was enhanced by noise-reducing features, making it a pleasant ride.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle engine with electric motors, delivering 243 horsepower. It offered standard AWD and could operate in EV mode at low speeds. However, its gas engine provided limited torque, affecting high-speed performance and towing capacity. The Highlander Hybrid featured Eco, Normal, and Sport driving modes, but its soft suspension and CVT made for a less engaging drive. It excelled in fuel economy, though real-world results were slightly higher than expected. The Highlander Hybrid was best suited for city and suburban driving, prioritizing comfort and reliability.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 utilized the Electric Global Modular Platform, maximizing interior space with a longer wheelbase than the Palisade. It offered 3,786 litres of interior volume, prioritizing passenger comfort over cargo space. The interior featured a moveable centre console and flat floor, enhancing versatility. The leatherette seats were comfortable and supportive, catering to various driver sizes.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid accommodated seven or eight passengers, with most models featuring second-row captain's chairs. The third row was best for occasional use, with limited comfort and accessibility. The interior included three-zone climate control and heated seats, but storage areas were unlined, affecting noise levels. Cargo space was generous with the third row folded, offering up to 2,387 litres. However, the centre console design was unnecessarily complex, limiting usability.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 impressed with its advanced technology, featuring a high-voltage system with vehicle-to-load capabilities. It supported ultra-fast charging and offered a redesigned Blue Link app for EV management. The Ioniq 5 included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and over-the-air updates, with elegant 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment system.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid introduced new technology, with upper trims featuring a 12.3-inch digital display and Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment system. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with connected service plans. The Drive Connect service plan enhanced functionality with voice recognition and cloud-based navigation. The JBL sound system provided decent audio quality, though the graphics could be improved for better visibility.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 featured Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of ADAS with lane keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision avoidance. It included Highway Drive Assist I, a Level 2 semi-autonomous system with machine-learning adaptive cruise control. The Ioniq 5 was expected to earn high safety ratings, though official results were pending.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, offering adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. It included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, with higher trims adding parking sensors and a surround-view camera. The Highlander Hybrid received excellent crash-test ratings from both IIHS and NHTSA.