Consumers considering a compact electric SUV at an affordable price may have already caught wind of the 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5. As a car company that already has a reputation for solid value and performance, one would imagine its EV offerings would be no different. So, how does the Ioniq 5 stack up against the Kia Niro EV? Let’s take a look at a few reasons why you should be considering the Hyundai Ioniq 5. 

5 reasons to buy the 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 over the 2022 Kia Niro EV

1. It has a better fuel economy equivalent than the Niro EV

There are plenty of things to consider when buying a new electric SUV. One thing that’s at the top of the list for most is the fuel economy equivalent. Which vehicle gives you more bang for the buck? The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is the clear winner, with 114 MPGe against the Kia Niro EV‘s 112 MPGe. Still, it’s a slight difference. Is it enough to sway you in either direction?

2. It comes with available AWD when the Niro EV does not

Another selling point for the Kia Niro EV’s competition is the available AWD you can get with the 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5. For an affordable electric SUV, this could be a decision-maker. The available AWD hugs the road in adverse driving conditions, providing a safer, more stable ride. The Kia Niro EV does not offer this with its 2022 model. 

3. It has substantially more driving range than the Niro EV 

While the MPGe difference may be considered negligible by some, there’s no arguing that the driving range is more than a little significant. While the Kia Niro EV offers a respectable 239 miles, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 boasts a whopping 303 miles per charge, according to Edmunds. This is an outstanding and above-average range for an EV at this price point.

4. The Hyundai charges faster than the Kia

Another plus for the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is charging time. Charging time is a big factor for people who are on tight schedules or traveling, so which one takes longer? Edmunds reports that the Kia Niro EV takes 9.5 hours at 240V. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 electric SUV takes a full hour less at 8.5 hours. When every hour counts, this is a major difference. Charging times for EVs is a sore point for many, so this is yet another advantage.

5. It has more cargo capacity than the Niro EV

Finally, the Ioniq beats out the Kia Niro EV in overall max cargo capacity. This is another selling point for the Hyundai Ioniq 5. Space is a consideration when comparing electric SUVs. EVs are becoming roomier in general, and the Ioniq offers plenty of room to move around and plenty of cargo space for groceries, supplies, camping gear, and more. This is one of the reasons people choose an SUV in the first place, so it’s important that there be as much cargo capacity as possible. Ioniq is once again the clear winner here.

Is Ioniq 5 the right EV for you?

There are so many reasons why the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a great EV for budget-conscious drivers. It has stylish good looks and an affordable price tag, for starters. However, the advantages continue to stack up. 

When it comes to driving, Consumer Reports put both to the test. While the Kia Niro EV performed just fine on its road test, Consumer Reports scored the Ioniq 5 much higher.

When you compare it to the Kia Niro EV, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 simply offers more, especially when you consider practical factors like range, MPGe, cargo space, and available AWD. While the Niro EV is a solid vehicle, it simply doesn’t offer the level of features that the Hyundai Ioniq 5 does.