Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs Lucid Air: which is better in September 2026
In our current electric vehicles rankings, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 ranks higher at #3 (score 8.7) compared to the Lucid Air at #5 (score 8.7), a difference of 0.0 points. The most significant spec difference is Range: the Hyundai Ioniq 5 offers 318 mi versus 512 mi on the Lucid Air.
Rank #3 Hyundai Ioniq 5
Retro-futuristic design icon offering 800-volt hyper-charging, an ultra-spacious flat-floor cabin, and serene highway cruising.
Rank #5 Lucid Air
An engineering marvel boasting an unprecedented 512 miles of EPA range, 300 kW ultra-fast charging, and miniaturized motor tech yielding limousine rear legroom.
Side-by-Side Specifications
| Attribute | Hyundai Ioniq 5 | Lucid Air |
|---|---|---|
| Gear Scout Rank | #3 | #5 |
| Overall Score | 8.7 / 10 | 8.7 / 10 |
| Range (mi) | 318 mi | 512 mi |
| Peak charge (kW) | 235 kW | 300 kW |
| Price | $40k–50k | $70k+ |
| Body | SUV | Sedan |
| Drive | RWD | RWD |
Buying Recommendations
Choose the Hyundai Ioniq 5 if:
- You prioritize Rapid 18-minute highway charging.
- You prioritize Unique pixel retro styling.
- You prioritize Sliding center console versatility.
- You want to avoid Lucid Air's drawback: Narrow trunk aperture loading.
- You want to avoid Lucid Air's drawback: Inexperienced brand service network.
Choose the Lucid Air if:
- You prioritize Long-distance cross-country cruising.
- You prioritize Executive rear-seat legroom.
- You prioritize 500+ miles between plug-ins.
- You want to avoid Hyundai Ioniq 5's drawback: Lack of native wireless CarPlay.
- You want to avoid Hyundai Ioniq 5's drawback: Rear wiper omission on earlier trims.
In-Depth Model Overviews
Hyundai Ioniq 5 Overview
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 has captured widespread critical acclaim with its sharp, retro 1980s rally-inspired styling and cutting-edge 800-volt battery architecture. Capable of accepting 235 kW peak DC fast charging, it surges from 10 to 80 percent battery state of charge in only 18 minutes. In long-range rear-wheel-drive form, it yields an EPA rating of 318 miles on a full charge. Its extended 118.1-inch wheelbase—longer than many full-size three-row SUVs—creates a lounge-like passenger cabin with a sliding center console and relaxing footrest seats. Ride comfort is plush and compliant over harsh road expansion joints. Combining quick performance, distinctive aesthetics, and rapid turnaround at charging plazas, it is one of the most compelling electric crossovers available today.
Lucid Air Overview
The Lucid Air is the reigning champion of electric vehicle efficiency and battery range. In Grand Touring specification, it achieves an astronomical 512 miles of EPA range from a 118 kWh battery pack—delivering over 4.5 miles per kilowatt-hour. Utilizing a proprietary 900-volt architecture, it pulls up to 300 kW at compatible DC chargers, replenishing up to 200 miles of highway range in under 12 minutes. Its miniaturized motor and inverter packaging allows for an executive interior with greater rear-seat stretch-out space than full-size Mercedes S-Class sedans, complemented by an expansive 10-cubic-foot bi-level frunk. Acceleration is effortless and silent, moving from 0 to 60 mph in 3.0 seconds. For drivers seeking maximum range and architectural elegance, it is peerless.