Auto Express has named the Hyundai Ioniq 5 as the best used car in the UK, a choice that comes as more drivers opt out of buying new vehicles amid rising costs. The electric five-door hatchback, first released in 2021, can now be bought for as little as £13,000.
Why the Ioniq 5 won
The publication highlighted the car's range, styling and potentially intact warranties as key reasons for the selection. In a statement, Auto Express said: "The futuristic styling is a big draw, but that beauty is more than skin deep. The tech-filled cabin is packed with equipment, and the long wheelbase ensures there’s plenty of room for the entire family."
"All versions, even those with a single motor driving the rear wheels, handle well, and every model will comfortably do north of 200 miles on a charge….Many Ioniq 5s will have part of their original, five-year manufacturer warranty still intact, too," the publication added.
Electric appeal amid rising fuel costs
The Ioniq 5's electric powertrain is another draw, as electricity prices have not risen as far or as fast as petrol or diesel. According to RAC data from October 21, the average price of a litre of petrol is around 174.04p, while diesel is even higher at 199.05p. In some places, diesel has breached the £2 mark for the first time, prompting calls for government action.
Following the milestone, RAC head of policy Simon Williams warned of challenges ahead. He said: "This is a pump price threshold that no-one wanted to cross – the average price of a litre of diesel has risen to a record 200.01p and is showing no signs of slowing, heaping more misery onto motorists."
"The cost of filling up an average family car is now £110, almost £32 more than it was at the start of the US/Iran war. This will be very challenging for households and companies that drive a lot of miles, from commuters, haulage and delivery firms, businesses with large fleets all the way through to sole traders," he added.
The combination of affordable electric motoring and rising fuel prices makes the Ioniq 5 an increasingly attractive option for UK buyers.
