Futuristic styling of Hyundai's zero-emissions electric Ioniq 5 reminds RAY MASSEY of Stanley Kubrick's sci-fi classic 2001: A Space Odyssey
Stepping into the elegant cabin of Hyundai's Ioniq 5, I half expected to hear the epic strains of Also Sprach Zarathustra — the stirring music used in Stanley Kubrick's sci-fi classic 2001: A Space Odyssey.
That's because the futuristic styling of this zero-emissions electric car would have fitted right in to that genius blockbuster, with features that you'd find on premium cars costing much more.
The future is bright: Our man Ray Massey found Hyundai's Ioniq 5 is fast and spacious
The new Ioniq 5 goes on sale this Tuesday ahead of first deliveries in early August, though a launch edition of under 200 in February sold-out within 24 hours. I drove an early left hand-drive version borrowed from Norway on UK roads around the Chilterns and found it's devilishly fast.
There are three trim levels — SE Connect, Premium and Ultimate — and four drive modes: eco, normal, sport and snow. There are also three battery and drive types: 58kWh rear-wheel drive giving a range of up to 240 miles; a 73kWh RWD with up to 300 miles and an all-wheel drive version of that offering 287 miles.
Sitting comfortably: The futuristic styling of the Ioniq 5's cabin (above) would have fitted right in to Stanley Kubrick's sci-fi classic 2001: A Space Odyssey (top)
Prices start from £36,995 for the SE Connect 58kWh up to £48,145 for the Ultimate with a 73kWh twin-motor all-wheel drive. This was my drive for the day — but with nearly £2,700 of extras.
It's certainly got pace with 0-62mph in a sports car-like 5.2 seconds up to a top speed of 115mph. The car is easy to drive and many of its interior touchpoints use eco-friendly materials, such as recycled bottles, plant-based yarns, natural wool yarns and eco-processed leather.
It's a smart car, too. Extras on mine included relaxation and memory seats that fold back, blind spot monitors and remote parking assist.
Hyundai says 350kW ultra rapid charging can achieve 80 per cent capacity in just 18 minutes and 62 miles of range in five. From a domestic charger you are looking at between five and six hours.
Its elongated wheelbase and lack of a transmission tunnel means loads of interior space.
It's already garnered a clutch of awards including Auto Express New Car Of The Year which said it 'moved the game on' for the car market. I totally agree.
Used car prices soaring
Used car prices are soaring as the industry suffers production delays. Knock-on effects from Covid means supply is struggling against demand.
Supercar specialist dealer Tom Hartley, says: 'It doesn't matter if you're buying a Ferrari or a Fiat, pre-owned prices are rocketing.'
But while it's tough news for buyers, car owners looking to sell could be quids in.
In the fast lane: Volkswagen has been the top used performer since April
Volkswagen has been the top used performer since April, says heycar. Its data shows average prices from the German manufacturer rose by 8 per cent to £21,296.
SEATs takes second place with a 7 per cent rise to £16,241, and Mercedes-Benz enjoyed a 6 per cent rise to £29,509.
The average price of the 2017 Golf 1.0 TSI petrol increased by 7 per cent, while 1.5 diesel Dacia Sandero jumped by 13 and Ford's Fiesta increased by 5 per cent to £14,103.
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