Electric Cars

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 has been a prominent electric crossover since its 2022 debut in America. While the 2025 model introduces notable enhancements like a larger battery and a Tesla-style NACS plug, the question arises whether earlier models retain their value. A detailed 40,000-mile endurance evaluation conducted by Car and Driver offers valuable insights into the real-world ownership experience of a 2023 Ioniq 5. This assessment underscores the vehicle's blend of enjoyable driving dynamics with ample power, minimal upkeep expenses, and efficient DC fast-charging, positioning older Ioniq 5s as an attractive and cost-effective choice in today's market for electric vehicles. This thorough review suggests that for buyers prioritizing affordability without compromising on core electric vehicle advantages, a pre-owned Ioniq 5 represents an exceptionally prudent investment.

Evaluating the Hyundai Ioniq 5's Enduring Appeal and Performance

The Hyundai Ioniq 5, a standout electric crossover, has consistently earned high recommendations for its distinctive design, impressive range, and leading DC fast-charging capabilities, outperforming many gasoline-powered counterparts. The 2025 iteration further refines these aspects with a more powerful battery, extended range, an upgraded interior, and the integration of a North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, aligning it with Tesla's charging infrastructure. Despite these advancements, the market for pre-owned Ioniq 5 models from 2022-2024 presents an compelling opportunity, with prices ranging from $25,000 to $35,000, depending on mileage and condition. This makes older versions a highly attractive proposition for budget-conscious buyers seeking significant value.

A rigorous 40,000-mile, two-year long-term evaluation by Car and Driver on a 2023 Ioniq 5 SEL AWD, equipped with a 77-kilowatt-hour battery, 320 horsepower, and 446 pound-feet of torque, offers a candid look into daily ownership. While its official 266-mile range might seem modest compared to newer EVs, the practical benefits, such as Eco Mode for enhanced efficiency and robust performance with a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds, remain significant. The vehicle's appealing aesthetics, generous interior space, and versatile Utility Mode—allowing it to power various devices—add to its allure. Despite minor critiques regarding the absence of a rear windshield wiper and the charging port cover's design, these are generally outweighed by the vehicle's substantial advantages. The Ioniq 5 also excels in fast charging, achieving an 18-minute 10-80% charge under optimal conditions, a feature now enhanced by Supercharger network access via an adapter. The overall consensus from such extensive testing points to the Ioniq 5, particularly its earlier models, as a highly desirable and economically sound option for electric vehicle enthusiasts.

Unveiling the Practical Benefits and Cost-Effectiveness of Used Ioniq 5s

Beyond initial purchase appeal, the real-world operational aspects of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 cement its status as a savvy choice for a used electric vehicle. The long-term test by Car and Driver highlighted impressively low service expenses over 40,000 miles, amounting to a mere $82. This minimal cost primarily covered a tire rotation and cabin air filter change, routine tasks often performable at no expense at home. The only notable replacements were wiper blades and addressing a statistically rare 12-volt battery issue, both resolved efficiently and without charge at the dealership. This demonstrates the Ioniq 5's inherent reliability and cost-efficient maintenance profile.

The Ioniq 5's exceptional DC fast-charging capability, allowing a 10% to 80% charge in approximately 18 minutes, continues to be a major draw, providing convenience that rivals more expensive, newer models. The added flexibility of accessing the Tesla Supercharger network with an adapter further enhances its practicality and usability for long-distance travel. Despite slight variations in highway range observed during winter conditions, the vehicle's powerful acceleration and versatile interior, featuring fold-down rear seats and a Utility Mode that essentially transforms the car into a mobile power source, reinforce its utility. These factors, combined with the current attractive pricing in the pre-owned market, suggest that an older Ioniq 5 not only offers a pleasant and powerful driving experience but also represents superior value compared to purchasing a brand-new model in 2025.

Xiaomi's European Journey: From Gadgets to Electric Vehicles

Xiaomi's Strategic Retail Rollout Across Europe

Xiaomi has initiated its European expansion by inaugurating two flagship stores, one in Essen, Germany, and another in Madrid, Spain. The company's goal is to establish a network of ten such retail outlets across Western Europe by the close of 2025. These stores are designed to showcase and sell Xiaomi's diverse portfolio of consumer electronics, including smartphones, smartwatches, laptops, and various other gadgets, solidifying its brand presence in key European markets.

The Impending Arrival of Xiaomi's Electric Vehicles

While the newly opened European stores are currently focused on electronics, Xiaomi has confirmed its intention to launch its electric vehicles, specifically the SU7 sedan and YU7 crossover models, in Europe by 2027. This aligns with the company's overarching vision of a seamlessly integrated 'Human x Car x Home' ecosystem, where its technological innovations extend from personal devices to smart mobility solutions. The initial retail presence for gadgets is seen as a foundational step to familiarize European consumers with the Xiaomi brand before the introduction of its automotive products.

Competitive Positioning and Market Entry Challenges

In China, Xiaomi's SU7 and YU7 electric vehicles are offered at prices comparable to Tesla's Model 3 and Model Y, with the YU7 notably undercutting local Chinese-made Tesla Model Ys. However, the pricing strategy for the European market remains uncertain, primarily due to potential tariffs on Chinese-manufactured electric vehicles. Despite these challenges, Xiaomi's ambition to gain traction in Europe is evident, as the company continues to see strong demand for its EVs in its home market and plans further model expansions, including a three-row SUV and a long-wheelbase SU7 sedan variant.

Customization and Future Innovations

Xiaomi is also enhancing its EV offerings with personalized customization options for Chinese buyers of the YU7 and SU7. This bespoke service allows for elevated interior trims and unique exterior paint finishes, providing customers with more distinct choices. This focus on individualization could be a key strategy as Xiaomi prepares to enter the competitive European automotive landscape, seeking to differentiate its vehicles through advanced technology and personalized experiences.

Anticipating Xiaomi's Impact on European Roads

The establishment of Xiaomi's retail footprint in Europe marks a critical early phase in its broader strategy to introduce electric vehicles to the continent. While cars are not yet on display, their eventual inclusion in these showrooms is a logical progression. The company's commitment to innovation and market expansion suggests that it is poised to become a notable player in Europe's evolving EV market, with the SU7 and YU7 models potentially becoming a common sight on European roads in the coming years.