LOS ANGELES — Hyundai is previewing with several teaser images the new Ioniq 5 crossover that will debut early this year and establish the Ioniq EV subbrand, with three vehicles planned by 2024.
The Ioniq 5, which Hyundai is calling a midsize CUV, is the first vehicle on the automaker’s electric global modular platform. Similar crossovers from corporate siblings Kia and Genesis are expected to be shown late this year or early next year. Sales launches for the U.S. have not been announced.
The design for the Ioniq 5 comes from the “45” concept car shown in fall 2019. The angular shape is inspired by looking back at the brand’s designs from the 1970s, the company said.
The teaser images suggest Hyundai has stuck with the basics of the concept’s shape and features, such as a unique exterior light display.
“Ioniq 5’s front end is adorned with arrays of pixel-inspired lights suggestive of the digital technology within,” Hyundai said late Tuesday. “Ioniq 5 is also the first Hyundai vehicle to feature a clamshell hood that spans the entire width of the car, thus minimizing panel gaps and creating a clean and high-tech overall look.”
Hyundai has also kept the big wheels from the concept.
“Aero-optimized wheels further echo the Parametric Pixel design theme, offered in a super-sized 20-inch diameter, the largest rims ever fitted to a Hyundai EV. These complete Ioniq 5’s perfected proportions, optimized for Hyundai’s new signature dedicated EV architecture,” the company said.
The eGMP platform will be rear-wheel drive and deliver up to 310 miles of estimated range using the European measurement standard, Hyundai has said. On the more challenging EPA cycle used in the U.S., range should be upwards of 250 miles. Hyundai is also expected to offer all-wheel-drive and long-range batteries.
The Ioniq 6 — to be launched in 2022 — is a sedan that takes inspiration from the Prophecy concept shown in March 2020. It will be followed in early 2024 by a large SUV, the Ioniq 7.
Hyundai’s current EVs, the Kona subcompact crossover and Ioniq compact sedan, share platforms with gasoline and hybrid vehicles and are front-wheel drive. Hyundai has said that it expects most of its U.S. dealers to sign up for the Ioniq subbrand.