FYI: Hyundai and General Motors are ambitiously pushing forward with their electrification strategies, with the Ioniq 5 and Chevrolet Equinox EV setting new standards in the entry-level electric SUV market. Despite differences, both models offer impressive features and serve as viable alternatives to conventional gas-powered vehicles.
Comparing the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV and the 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5
Price and Affordability
The Chevrolet Equinox EV has entered the market with a starting price of $43,295 for the base 2LT FWD model, which includes a $1,395 destination fee. This price point renders it fairly accessible compared to other models available. Meanwhile, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 SE Standard Range is priced at $100 less than the Equinox EV after a $1,395 destination charge.
One decisive advantage for the Equinox EV is its eligibility for a $7,500 tax credit, which the Ioniq 5 does not qualify for due to sourcing and manufacturing constraints.
Top-end Pricing
At the higher end of the range, neither model is particularly cheap. The Chevrolet Equinox EV 3RS AWD starts at $50,095, while the top-spec Ioniq 5 Limited configuration reaches $54,895. Options and accessories can further increase the Equinox EV’s price, whereas Hyundai maintains simplicity with fewer accessory options, focusing on the all-wheel-drive choice, which costs $3,900.
Range and Efficiency
Estimated Ranges
The Ioniq 5 boasts a maximum range of 303 miles in its long-range rear-wheel-drive configuration, though this drops to 260 miles with all-wheel drive. On the other hand, Chevrolet estimates the Equinox EV can reach up to 319 miles with front-wheel drive and 285 miles with all-wheel drive.
Charging Times
Charging the Equinox EV requires around nine hours on a Level 2 240-volt charger, while using a Level 3 DC fast charger can reduce this to approximately 40 minutes. The Ioniq 5, however, charges from 10 to 100 percent in six hours on a 240-volt outlet, with fast charging from 10 to 80 percent taking under 20 minutes.
Fuel Efficiency
MPGe Ratings
The Ioniq 5’s most efficient configuration delivers 114 MPGe combined, compared to the Equinox EV’s 108 MPGe combined for its most efficient model. The Equinox drops to 96 MPGe with all-wheel drive, while Hyundai’s efficiency numbers also decline slightly with enhanced features.
Driving Dynamics
Acceleration and Top Speed
While neither the Ioniq 5 nor the Equinox EV is designed for thrilling driving experiences, the Ioniq 5 outpaces its rival in acceleration. The all-wheel-drive Ioniq 5 hits 60 mph in around 5 seconds, whereas the fastest Equinox EV takes about six seconds. The Ioniq 5 N performance model goes a step further, achieving this in just over three seconds. Top speeds are close, with the Equinox EV topping out at 113 mph and the Ioniq 5 at 115 mph.
Interior and Technology
Interior Quality
Chevrolet’s Equinox EV offers a conventional approach with synthetic leather seats, physical buttons, and a comfortable layout. Standard features include heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and an 11-inch digital gauge cluster paired with a 17.7-inch touchscreen. Hyundai’s Ioniq 5, however, sports a more modern interior with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and dual-zone automatic climate controls.
Safety Features
Both models exhibit excellent safety features. The Ioniq 5 is well-equipped with forward collision warnings, adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and more, while the Equinox EV includes everything from blind spot monitoring to automatic emergency braking. Notably, the Ioniq 5 has been awarded the IIHS Top Safety Pick + designation.
Conclusion
The Chevrolet Equinox EV and Hyundai Ioniq 5 are impressive contenders in the electric SUV market. While the Equinox EV’s eligibility for a significant tax credit makes it more financially appealing, the Ioniq 5 excels in real-world charging efficiency and driving performance. Both offer a substantial range of features and solid driving dynamics, underscoring the appeal of electric vehicles in today’s marketplace.
Expert Insight
Having a background with similar vehicles, I find GM’s software suite in the Equinox far superior to that of Hyundai’s. Built-in features like Google Maps and Google Assistant streamline usability, making CarPlay or Android Auto less crucial. While the Ioniq 5 excels with its fast-charging infrastructure, making it the better option for long road trips, the Equinox EV will significantly benefit from future access to Tesla Superchargers—a vital next step.
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— William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi
