2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 XRT Review: Rugged EV Crossover With Off-Road Flair
Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 has already made a name for itself as one of the most stylish and versatile electric crossovers on the market. For 2025, Hyundai introduces a new trim level — the Ioniq 5 XRT — aimed at drivers who want an electric vehicle that can handle more than just city streets. With enhanced ride height, all-terrain tires, and a bold new look, the XRT brings extra capability without sacrificing the comfort and advanced technology that define the Ioniq 5 lineup.
Distinctive Off-Road Design
The 2025 Ioniq 5 XRT sets itself apart with a more rugged aesthetic. It features digital camouflage bumpers, black body cladding, unique skid plates, and matte 18-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires. The vehicle rides 0.9 inches (23 mm) higher than the standard Ioniq 5, giving it a total 7 inches of ground clearance. Approach and departure angles are improved to 19.8 degrees and 30 degrees, respectively, making light off-road travel more feasible.
While Hyundai is not marketing this as a rock-crawling SUV, the XRT trim is well-suited for gravel roads, desert tracks, and uneven terrain — situations often encountered in the UAE when heading to the countryside or a beach camp.
Powertrain and Performance
Under the hood — or more accurately, under the floor — the Ioniq 5 XRT comes exclusively with all-wheel drive and a dual-motor setup. The system produces 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft (605 Nm) of torque, delivering confident acceleration on both paved and unpaved surfaces.
Power is supplied by Hyundai’s new 84 kWh battery pack, which offers an EPA-estimated range of about 259 miles (417 km). In real-world highway testing at 70 mph, the XRT achieved around 244 miles (393 km).
Thanks to 800-volt charging architecture, the Ioniq 5 XRT can add approximately 152 miles (245 km) of range in just 15 minutes at a high-power DC fast charger. It also comes with the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, ensuring compatibility with Tesla Superchargers, plus a CCS adapter for broader charging options.
Interior Comfort and Features
Inside, the Ioniq 5 XRT blends rugged style with premium comfort. The seats are upholstered in H-Tex sustainable materials, complemented by a black headliner and XRT-branded details. All-weather floor mats come as standard, underscoring its outdoor-ready image.
The dashboard is dominated by dual 12.3-inch displays for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system, now supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additional updates for 2025 include more intuitive HVAC controls, USB-C charging ports, and Hyundai’s Digital Key system.
Practicality is enhanced by the Ioniq 5’s flat floor, spacious rear seats, and versatile cargo area. Whether hauling camping gear or shopping bags, the XRT retains the usability that makes electric crossovers appealing.
Driving Impressions
On the road, the 2025 Ioniq 5 XRT maintains the smooth, composed ride quality of the standard model, despite its extra ride height and all-terrain tires. Steering remains precise, and body roll is minimal for a crossover of its size. Off-pavement, the XRT’s suspension tuning and added clearance give it the confidence to tackle rougher surfaces without the harshness often found in off-road-oriented vehicles.
MotorTrend’s first test described the XRT as “a real SUV” — not just a cosmetic package. It strikes a balance between everyday comfort and light off-road competence, which is ideal for drivers who split their time between city streets and weekend escapes.
Safety and Technology
The 2025 Ioniq 5 XRT comes standard with Hyundai’s SmartSense suite of driver assistance features, including:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Highway Driving Assist
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Surround View Monitor
These features, combined with the vehicle’s strong structural integrity, make it a safe choice for both urban and rural driving in the UAE.
Pricing and Value
In the US market, the Ioniq 5 XRT starts at around $56,975, with well-equipped versions reaching approximately $57,700. While UAE pricing may vary, the XRT trim offers a compelling blend of technology, style, and versatility for those seeking a capable electric crossover with an adventurous edge.
The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 XRT represents a bold evolution of the Ioniq 5 formula. By adding genuine off-road capability, distinctive styling, and maintaining excellent range and charging performance, Hyundai has created a unique EV for drivers who want more freedom to explore.
Whether navigating Dubai’s urban streets, cruising along Abu Dhabi’s highways, or heading out into the desert, the Ioniq 5 XRT is ready for the challenge — and it does so with zero tailpipe emissions.