Did you know that the average American drives about 33 miles daily? This insight comes from the latest government data on driving habits, as reported here. Despite this, many still worry about electric vehicles’ (EVs) range, even as most models now boast over 300 miles per charge. Take the Hyundai Ioniq 5, for example. This vehicle, a standout in its category and a consistent Best Buy Award winner, can travel nearly 300 miles on a full charge.
To put the Hyundai Ioniq 5’s capabilities to the test, a colleague and I embarked on an impromptu lunch outing. Our destination was a unique eatery over 60 miles away, doubling the average daily distance traveled by most drivers.
Aside from indulging our appetites, this trip was a chance to see if the Ioniq 5 could meet the expectations of those transitioning from gasoline to electric power.
And yes, there was also a quest for vampire tacos.
Preying on a Vampire (Taco)
In a food magazine, I once stumbled upon the concept of vampire tacos, but they seemed elusive on menus. These mysterious tacos, much like their namesake, are rare, even in Southern California’s taco-rich environment.
The hunt led me to Long Beach, 30 miles from the Kelley Blue Book office in Irvine, where I finally located a place serving vampiros. We jumped into a 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 Limited and set off.
With the battery at about 75%, the Ioniq 5 still displayed approximately 200 miles of range on its digital dashboard. The vehicle offers a range estimate that considers driving habits and conditions, showing variations like 180 to 200 miles. This adjusts dynamically based on driving modes, such as Eco or Sport.
We felt confident about our journey, knowing EV chargers were available near our destination, although we never needed them.
Head-Turning Exterior, High-Tech but Practical Interior
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 has been our Electric Vehicle Best Buy Award recipient for four consecutive years. It consistently impresses us as it outshines more competitors each year. I’ve often praised it as my preferred EV and recommended it to friends, both first-time and veteran EV buyers.
The Ioniq 5’s design is a blend of futuristic and retro elements, with a striking exterior that remains eye-catching even five years post-launch.
Its appeal extends beyond looks, with an open and airy interior featuring innovative touches such as a sliding center console and a transmission control stalk mounted on the steering wheel. Modern tech abounds, including twin 12.3-inch displays, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a comprehensive suite of driver aids. Fortunately, despite its tech-rich environment, controls remain user-friendly with physical buttons for functions like heated seats, avoiding cumbersome touchscreen menus.
Brisk Acceleration, Highway Driving Assistance
The Ioniq 5 continues to earn praise for its driving dynamics. Electric vehicles offer instant power delivery, akin to flipping a switch, providing exhilarating acceleration.
Our dual-motor all-wheel-drive model boasted 320 horsepower. For those seeking thrills, the Ioniq 5 N offers up to 641 horsepower, while the Ioniq 5 XRT is designed for off-road adventures.
Equipped with the Highway Driving Assist 2 system, we reached our destination—an eatery within the LBX Exchange—with ease and anticipation for vampire tacos.
Satisfying Experience
While the origin of the name “Vampire Tacos” remains a mystery, the experience of eating them is delightfully messy and enjoyable. These tacos resemble a tostada with a cheese-coated shell topped with various ingredients. Mine featured pinto beans, guacamole, chopped onion, and soy chorizo—simply delicious.
Satisfied, we embarked on the return trip of over 30 miles, with the Ioniq 5 delivering the quiet and swift ride we’ve come to appreciate.
Once back, we could have charged the Ioniq 5 at our Level 2 port, but it wasn’t necessary. The display showed over 150 miles remaining, sufficient for several days of commuting or further culinary explorations. Now, about those gold leaf-topped desserts…
Original Story at www.kbb.com