Renault Scenic vs Hyundai Ioniq 5: EV SUV Showdown

Electric vehicles are reshaping the family car market, with stylish SUVs like the Renault Scenic E-Tech and Hyundai Ioniq 5 leading the charge. Both offer spacious interiors, impressive ranges, and modern tech, but they differ in key areas like power delivery, charging speeds, and handling. This comparison draws on detailed specs and road tests to highlight strengths and weaknesses, helping buyers decide between Renault’s efficient newcomer and Hyundai’s established favorite.

Design and Build: Striking Looks Meet Practicality

The Renault Scenic revives a classic nameplate with a bold, futuristic design. Its sleek lines and compact footprint—measuring around 4.47 meters long—make it agile for urban parking while providing ample interior space. Built on Renault’s dedicated EV platform, it features a low center of gravity thanks to the battery pack positioned between the axles. Weighing 1,860kg, it’s lighter than many rivals, aiding efficiency.

Hyundai Ioniq 5, by contrast, boasts a retro-futuristic aesthetic with pixelated lighting and a longer 4.65-meter body. Its E-GMP platform supports rear- or all-wheel drive, with the tested rear-drive version emphasizing smoothness. At 1,935kg, it’s slightly heavier, but the design prioritizes a airy cabin with sliding center console for flexibility.

• Scenic advantages: Shorter length for easier maneuvering; sustainable materials in cabin.
• Ioniq 5 advantages: Iconic styling; more cargo flexibility with 57-liter frunk.

Powertrains and Performance: Torque and Acceleration Face Off

Both models in long-range spec use single-motor setups for efficiency. The Scenic’s 217bhp front-motor delivers 300Nm torque, hitting 0-62mph in 7.9 seconds with a top speed of 105mph. Its excited synchronous motor avoids rare-earth materials, promoting sustainability.

Hyundai edges ahead with 225bhp and 350Nm from its rear permanent-magnet motor, achieving 0-62mph in 7.3 seconds and 114mph top speed. Higher-output AWD versions reach 321bhp, but the base long-range matches the Scenic’s focus on range over outright pace.

Battery, Range, and Efficiency: Miles Per Charge Compared

Renault claims a WLTP range of 369 miles from its 87kWh battery, with real-world tests yielding 3.5 miles/kWh or 305 miles. This outperforms the Ioniq 5’s 77kWh pack, rated at 315 miles WLTP and 3.6 miles/kWh (277 miles tested). The Scenic’s larger capacity and lighter weight give it the edge for long trips.

Entry-level options include a 60kWh Scenic (shorter range) and 58kWh Ioniq 5 (238 miles WLTP). Efficiency shines in mixed driving, with Ioniq 5 achieving 16.8kWh/100km real-world.

• Larger battery favors Scenic for distance.
• Ioniq 5’s regen paddles enable one-pedal driving.

Charging Speeds: Quick Top-Ups for On-the-Go Lifestyles

Hyundai dominates here with 240kW DC fast charging, reaching 10-80% in about 18 minutes. AC supports 10.5kW for full charges in six hours. Renault’s 150kW max is slower, but its 87kWh pack still charges efficiently at 22kW AC.

Both handle 7kW home charging, but Ioniq 5’s superior DC rate suits frequent travelers.

Interior Comfort and Tech: Space, Screens, and Features

Scenic’s cabin emphasizes sustainability with recycled fabrics and a 12.3-inch OpenR Link infotainment system plus driver display. Rear space is generous, with 545 liters boot expanding to 1,670 liters. It seats five comfortably, prioritizing family practicality.

Ioniq 5 counters with dual 12.3-inch screens, vehicle-to-load capability, and a sliding console. Cargo is 527-1,587 liters, plus a frunk. Its airy glasshouse feels premium, though some note firm seats on long drives.

Driving Dynamics: Urban, Roads, and Highways Tested

City Driving

Ioniq 5 excels in towns with soft suspension absorbing bumps and light steering. Rear-drive avoids wheelspin, keeping it serene despite warning chimes.

B-Road Twists

Hyundai handles corners better, with less roll and confident exits thanks to RWD grip. Scenic fidgets more over imperfections.

Motorway Cruising

Ioniq 5 is refined at speed, with quiet cabin and stable ride. Scenic matches efficiency but trails in composure.

Pricing and Ownership: Value for Money

Scenic Iconic Long Range starts at £45,495, undercutting Ioniq 5 Premium at £49,945. Both offer strong warranties—Renault 5 years/100,000 miles, Hyundai 5 years unlimited with 8-year battery cover.

• Scenic: Better entry price, longer range.
• Ioniq 5: Faster charging, more power.

Safety and Reliability: Airbags, Assists, and Longevity

Scenic has 7 airbags vs Ioniq 5’s 6, with both packing ADAS like adaptive cruise. Hyundai’s platform proven reliable; Renault’s new but backed by efficient motor tech.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

FAQs

Which has the better range?

Renault Scenic offers 369 miles WLTP vs Ioniq 5’s 315 miles, ideal for long journeys.

Is the Ioniq 5 faster to charge?

Yes, 240kW vs 150kW, enabling quicker stops.

Which is cheaper?

Scenic at £45,495 vs £49,945 for Ioniq 5.

Family-friendly pick?

Both spacious, but Scenic’s boot and price edge it for value.

AWD available?

Ioniq 5 yes (321bhp); Scenic FWD only at launch.

Verdict: Choose Your EV Priority

For range and affordability, pick Renault Scenic. For charging speed and fun dynamics, Hyundai Ioniq 5 wins. Both elevate EV family hauling.