2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5 Vs. 2023 Subaru Solterra: Price & Features, Compared

2023-02-16 15:57:08 By : Ms. annie wang

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Subaru Solterra offer compelling features for buyers in the market for an electric SUV. But which one offers more value?

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Subaru Solterra are both electric SUVs catering to the needs of a growing customer base — here's how the 2023 editions compare. The Ioniq 5 is a popular Tesla alternative thanks to its affordable price, roomy interiors, and fast charging support. Other than a 5-star safety rating, the Solterra hasn't been spotlighted for its features and that's understandable, considering that U.S. customers received the first batch of orders only in November 2023.

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is available in four trims that start at $41,450 for the SE Standard Range, $45,500 for the SE, $47,450 for the SEL, and $52,600 for the Limited variant. Subaru offers three Solterra trims which start at $44,995 for the entry-level Premium model, $48,495 for the Limited variant, and $51,995 for the Touring edition. In terms of pricing, the Ioniq 5 is slightly more accessible to the average shopper. Neither SUV is eligible for the federal tax credit, so buyers will need to keep that in mind when factoring add-ons for their build.

Related: Hyundai Ioniq 5 Vs. Tesla Model 3: Here's How The Two EVs Compare

As for the range, the Ioniq 5 can travel for up to 303 miles on a single charge, while the Subaru maxes out at 228 miles. However, the range varies depending on the model. Hyundai’s EPA-estimated range of 303 miles applies to the SE, SEL, and Limited trims. The entry-level SE Standard Range model offers a disappointing 220 miles. Conversely, only the Solterra’s Premium model can be driven for up to 228 miles, with the Limited and Touring editions offering just 222 miles.

The Solterra features a 72.8 kWh lithium-ion battery that supports both home and public chargers. Using a Level 2 charger will take between nine and 11 hours to recharge the battery. Alternatively, drivers can plug into a DC fast charger and gain up to 80 percent battery in an hour. The Ioniq 5 promises quicker charge times thanks to its 800V battery platform that charges the battery from 10 percent to 80 percent in 18 minutes. But that's possible only when an ultra-fast charger is used. When using a 400V connector, it takes 25 minutes to charge to 80 percent. Hyundai sweetens the deal with two years' worth of free charging at Electrify America stations across the United States.

The Ioniq 5’s interiors differ depending on the trim. Getting the SE Standard Range model brings support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, LED interior illumination, a 12.3-inch navigation-enabled touchscreen, a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, heated front seats, and access to Hyundai's Bluelink connected car system. The premium Limited variant builds on these features and offers additional perks like a premium heads-up display with augmented reality (AR), vehicle-to-load abilities, rain-sensing wipers, and ventilated front seats. Highway driving assist is standard for all Ioniq 5 models.

While the Solterra features heated front seats for all models, only the Touring variant gets ventilated front seats. Standard features for all trims include keyless entry with push-button start, intelligent assistant voice-activated vehicle interface, climate control functions, 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, and the active safety features provided by Subaru’s Eyesight driver assist technologies like a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, parking support brake, and safe exit assist.

Subaru's first all-electric model — the Solterra — pales in comparison to the Ioniq 5. While there's not much to complain about regarding pricing, its low range coupled with longer charge times may not appeal to buyers switching over from gasoline vehicles. Thanks to its ultra-fast charging and ability to travel up to 300+ miles, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 offers more value for money between the two.

More: Hyundai Kona Electric Vs. Kia Niro EV: Price And Features Compared

Michael Akuchie is a Tech Writer reporting the latest trends in the electric vehicle space. He has recently included electric micro-mobility solutions (scooters/bikes) and artificial intelligence in his coverage for Screen Rant. He strongly believes that self-driving cars are possible in this lifetime, but we may be a long way from ever owning one. Despite broadening his scope, he remains an EV enthusiast and attempts to stay on top of the scene’s latest happenings.  ​​​ His other writings cover the Customer Experience, HR Tech, Digital Transformation, and Automobile industries. He's also an Anime enthusiast, with Naruto and AOT being his two all-time best Anime shows.