I Drove the Hyundai Ioniq 5 XRT: Here’s the Real Verdict

I Drove the Hyundai Ioniq 5 XRT: Here’s the Real Verdict originally appeared on Autoblog.

Off-roady EVs have arrived

I spent a week with the Hyundai Ioniq 5 XRT, putting it through real-world conditions, including daily errands, highway road trips, urban commutes, and even some light off-roading. Hyundai markets the XRT as more than just a stylish EV; it hints at a lifestyle of adventure, utility, and futuristic practicality. But does this rugged trim level actually deliver on its outdoorsy promises? Here's what I discovered beyond the spec sheet.

Powertrain and performance

The XRT is powered by dual permanent-magnet synchronous AC motors, delivering a combined 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque (133 hp front / 221 hp rear). According to Hyundai, it does 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, which I found entirely believable. This thing moves.

It’s backed by an 84 kWh long-range battery, offering a max range of around 259 miles. That’s a bit lower than the standard AWD Ioniq 5 due to the higher ride height (+0.9") and chunky all-terrain tires. However, its 800V architecture allows rapid DC fast charging at up to 350 kW, which can take it from 10% to 80% in about 20 minutes. It now includes the NACS (Tesla Supercharger) port, which is a game-changer for public charging. If an NACS charger is unavailable, you can also use CCS via an adapter.

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It can actually go off-road...a bit

No, it’s not a Jeep Wrangler, but the Ioniq 5 XRT does let you stray off the beaten path. Fire roads, trails, and sandy backroads are all in play, as long as you avoid serious rock crawling or mud bogging. Thanks to 7 inches of ground clearance and much-improved approach (19.8°) and departure (30°) angles, you get noticeably more off-road confidence compared to the standard Ioniq 5.

What really makes the XRT special are its three exclusive drive modes: Snow, Sand, and Mud. I tested “Sand” mode on a beach trail, and it powered through with ease. The Continental CrossContact ATR all-terrain tires (mounted on 18-inch black wheels) chewed through loose dirt with surprising grip, and on pavement, they were quiet enough that I almost forgot they weren’t road tires.

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The competition is heating up

I’ve always had a soft spot for the Ioniq 5—frankly, I’ve considered buying a base model for L.A. commuting. I even drove one cross-country from California to Florida and back a few years ago, so I was eager to try the XRT version. That said, there’s fierce competition emerging in the off-road-ish EV crossover space.

The Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally is probably the most direct rival. It’s louder, more aggressive, and clearly built for fast, rally-style dirt fun. While both hover around $57,000, the Ford has more of a wild-child personality, whereas the Hyundai feels more composed and practical. Then there’s the upcoming Chevy Equinox EV eAWD, Volkswagen ID.4 AWD Pro S, and 2026 Subaru Solterra, all of which could give the XRT some serious heat with more power, more range, or sharper pricing.

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Final thoughts

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 XRT is a well-executed, capable EV with a touch of rugged flair, but if I’m being honest, I wish it looked tougher. The "digital camo" trim is interesting, but not aggressive. A brighter paint palette, more distinctive wheels, or even a bolder interior theme would have gone a long way.

Still, it’s hard to ignore how polished the package is. It’s fast, practical, reasonably off-road capable, and backed by Hyundai’s proven EV platform. It may not scream “overland warrior,” but it’s a sweet ride with real daily-driver versatility and a genuine sense of adventure.

I Drove the Hyundai Ioniq 5 XRT: Here’s the Real Verdict first appeared on Autoblog on Jul 8, 2025

This story was originally reported by Autoblog on Jul 8, 2025, where it first appeared.