One of the fastest-growing markets, the EV world sees new releases and fiercer competition each year. However, the newest additions aren’t the only players. Vehicles released over the past few years can still make waves and attract consumers looking for cheaper deals.
Launched in 2021, Ioniq 5 and Volvo C40 are two top contenders. How do they compare, and which is best? Let’s see who wins the battle of Titans Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs. Volvo C40.
Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs. Volvo C40: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Hyundai Ioniq 5 | Volvo C40 Recharge | |
|---|---|---|
| Year of release | 2021 | 2021 |
| Vehicle type | Electric | Electric |
| Class | SUV | SUV |
| Powertrain | 170hp to 325hp | 402hp |
| Top speed | 115mph | 112mph |
| Range | Up to 303 miles per charge | Up to 226 miles per charge |
| Acceleration (0 to 60mph) | 5.2 seconds | 4.5 seconds |
| Drivetrain | FWD, RWD, AWD | AWD |
| Self-driving | Level II autonomous driving | Semi-autonomous |
| Charging speed (10% to 80%) | 18 minutes | 37 minutes |
| Number of seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo capacity | 27.2 cu. ft. | 17.3 cu. ft. |
| Wheel size | 19” | 19” |
| Automaker | Hyundai | Volvo |
| Starting price | $41,450 | $56,395 |
Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs. Volvo C40: What’s the Difference?
The Ioniq 5 is Hyundai’s first car developed on the Hyundai Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). It might not be the automaker’s first EV, but it is undeniably one of the first to become iconic.
This dazzling crossover impresses with its long range, fast charging, and excellent powertrain. Various trims and attractive price tags are just some reasons for its popularity.
Volvo C40 Recharge is XC40’s more stylish sibling. The two electric SUVs from the Swedish automaker share everything except for the looks and slight differences in size.
The C40 is a capable vehicle designed for on and off-road performance, but it costs about $14,000 more than the Ioniq 5. Is it worth it, or should you stick with the Korean brand? Let’s find out.
Performance
For a long time, EVs have been frowned upon due to their weaker power compared to hybrid and conventional vehicles. That’s not the case anymore, however. Both the Ioniq 5 and the C40 Recharge come with impressive motors, even though there is some difference between the two.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is an excellent choice for outdoorsy families looking for the perfect vehicle. The car delivers between 170 and 325 horsepower, depending on the trim, and up to 446 pound-feet of instant torque.
It catapults to 60 miles per hour in 5.2 seconds and stands out with a top speed of 115 miles per hour. With these specs, it is punchy enough to face whatever the road is throwing at it.
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However, the Volvo C40 Recharge is punchier. All trims deliver 402 horses and 487 pound-feet of torque. That’s enough motive force to accelerate to 60 miles per hour in 4.5 seconds — something that hot-shoe drivers will surely appreciate.
All-wheel drive also comes as standard on all trims, while the four driving modes make it easy to switch from max range to max power. In addition to the all-wheel drive, the C40 Recharge also impresses with higher ground clearance.
Paired with unrivaled power, Volvo’s EV turns into a trustworthy ally on all kinds of terrains. The Ioniq 5 has good off-road capabilities, too, but the lower ground clearance limits where you can go.
Range and Charge
While speed and power are important characteristics in a car, range, and recharge time are crucial factors to consider in an EV. If you care more about the latter than the former, know that Hyundai Ioniq 5 wins this round.
The Korean make impresses with a range of up to 303 miles per charge and quick charging from 10 to 80 percent battery in only 18 minutes. By comparison, the C40 Recharge has a range of up to 226 miles and needs about 37 minutes to replenish the battery from 10 to 80 percent.
The charge times refer to plugging the EV into a fast-charge station, and you’ll have to wait for several hours when charging either SUV at home. Nevertheless, the Ioniq 5 still charges faster.
It goes without saying that Hyundai delivers a higher fuel economy, too. According to EPA, the Ioniq 5 Long Range has a combined rating of 114 MPGe. This number drops to 113MPGe for the standard range battery, but the C40 has a combined rating of only 87 MPGe.
Safety and Driver Assist
Modern vehicles must deliver more than performance. Safety is paramount, and driver assistance can take some of the driving burden off of you. As you’d expect, both the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the Volvo C40 pack loads of driver assistance features (although none comes with Tesla’s full autonomous drive) and come with all the safety systems you’d expect from a new car.
Both vehicles feature plenty of sensors and cameras designed to detect traffic and aid you in demanding situations. Systems include anti-collision warning, pedestrian traffic detection, blind spot monitors, lane-keep assist, lane departure warning, and automated emergency braking.
As far as driver assistance functions go, both SUVs come with adaptive cruise control. The Ioniq 5 also offers a drive mode called Highway Driver Assist 2, which is basically level II autonomous driving. The vehicle doesn’t require any intervention from the driver in certain driving conditions on the highway.
Volvo doesn’t equip its C40 Recharge with Level 2 driving automation, but the adaptive cruise control does have a lane-centering feature. Apart from this difference, the two vehicles are comparable in terms of safety and driver assistance features.
Comfort
Interior design is one factor that differentiates between the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the Volvo C40. Both vehicles boast spacious cabins with plenty of head and legroom, but Hyundai is a notch over Volvo in this department.
The Korean make impresses with a tech-savvy interior. The seats are ergonomic and bring unique features, such as reclining backrests and pop-up footrests for the front passengers.
A sliding central console turns the front of the vehicle into a lounge space whenever needed, while the magnetic dashboard can become a display of meaningful keepsakes.
©ben bryant/Shutterstock.com
A large panoramic sunroof on higher-end trim boasts the idea of space and brings light into the cabin. You’ll also get plenty of cargo capacity for luggage and essentials — 27.2 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats stowed.
The Volvo C40 is a luxury SUV, so you can expect plenty of comfort from this car, too. However, the interior feels pretty basic compared to the Ioniq 5.
Sure, you get lots of smart storage space, but the center console is fixed, and the touchscreen looks pretty retro. The cargo capacity is also smaller compared to the Ioniq 5; with the rear seats up, you’ll only get 17.3 cubic feet.
Technology
The differences between the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the Volvo C40 are also marked in the technology department. As previously mentioned, the Ioniq 5 is a tech-savvy car. You can expect a magnetic dashboard, a 12.5-inch touchscreen at the center of the dash, and a separate 12.25-inch digital cluster that displays essential information almost at eye level.
The infotainment center is compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, but the system comes with its own navigation and maps. It goes without saying that you can pair your smartphone with the car for hands-free phone calls while you’re driving.
The Volvo C40 isn’t that different from its XC40 sibling in terms of infotainment options. The retro-looking console is present in this car, too. There are lots of knobs and buttons, but the 12.3-inch touchscreen is large enough for seamless use.
Perhaps the best highlight of the C40’s infotainment is the Google-based OS. The infotainment screen comes complete with Google Maps and Google Assistant; you’ll get quick access to updates and can even stay connected to your digital life via Google Play.
Price
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the Volvo C40 share some features, but the price isn’t one of them. If you want a more affordable electric SUV, the Ioniq 5 is undoubtedly your best bet. The starting price is $41,450 for the SE Standard Range, and can go as high as $52,600 for the sought-after Limited model.
The Volvo C40 might feel old-school on the inside, but the automaker’s reputation and the durability of its vehicles don’t come cheap. The entry-level Core trim has a starting price of $56,395, while the Ultimate model costs about $4,800 more.
Both automakers offer loan and lease options for all trims in their lineups. Depending on the provider and trim, you could pay between $518 and $554 per month to lease the Ioniq 5. The term length and your credit history can also affect the monthly fee. Meanwhile, leasing a C40 costs at least $549 per month; but likely more, depending on trim and other factors.
Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs. Volvo C40: 7 Must-Known Facts
- Hyundai Ioniq 5 is the automaker’s first EV developed on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP).
- Volvo C40 Recharge is the more upscale (and more expensive) version of the acclaimed XC40 Recharge.
- Ioniq 5 can be described as a tech-savvy electric SUV. It features a modern interior and provides plenty of comfort to the passengers.
- Volvo C40 is comfortable and comes with all amenities expected from a modern car. However, it doesn’t really stand out.
- Hyundai Ioniq 5 is an excellent town car for families and a faithful companion for undemanding trips.
- With a higher ground clearance, AWD as standard on all trims, and more power, the Volvo C40 Recharge is the best option for hard-core off-road adventures.
- Not all Ioniq 5 trims come with off-road capability, but the Korean make is more affordable, has a longer range, and comes with Level 2 autonomous driving.
Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs. Volvo C40: Which One Is Better? Which One Should You Get?
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the Volvo C40 Recharge are two promising electric vehicles. Each brings unique benefits, so choosing truly is a matter of balance between your needs, costs, and value.
If you want a capable electric SUV but don’t want to spend too much, you can’t go wrong with the Ioniq 5. To add value for money, this car brings excellent range and high fuel efficiency to the table. It is also spacious enough for a family.
Volvo C40 has a shorter range and poorer fuel efficiency. Yet, it brings outstanding power and AWD on all trims. It is the perfect companion for off-road adventures, and it can easily overcome challenging road conditions. However, you’ll have to pay for all these features. That said, tax credits and incentives can cut off some of those costs, making it a worthy choice.
The image featured at the top of this post is ©hendra yuwana/Shutterstock.com.
