Hyundai to launch updated 2025 IONIQ 5 as first EV at its new GA plant: Here’s what to expect

Hyundai’s best-selling electric vehicle is getting a refresh. The updated 2025 IONIQ 5 will be the first vehicle to roll out of Hyundai’s new $7.6 billion EV plant in Georgia later this year. Here are some changes you can expect to see with the new Hyundai IONIQ 5.

The IONIQ 5 was introduced in February 2021 as Hyundai’s first dedicated EV built on its E-GMP platform.

Four years later, Hyundai’s all-electric SUV is already due for a refresh. With nearly 34,000 models handed over in the US last year, Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 was the sixth best-selling EV, topping the Rivian R1S and Ford F-150 Lightning.

Despite rivals reporting “slower-than-expected” EV demand, Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 has maintained its momentum in 2024.

Hyundai sold nearly 15,000 IONIQ 5s in the US through the first five months of 2024, up 43% from last year. Last month, the IONIQ 5 set a new May sales record with 4,449 models sold, up 82% YOY.

Despite the hot start, Hyundai plans to launch an upgraded IONIQ 5 later this year. Hyundai said the updated 2025 IONIQ 5 will be the first vehicle produced at its new Metplant in Georgia.

Hyundai’s global chief operating officer, Jose Munoz, called it a “no-brainer” to have the IONIQ 5 lead production at its new EV and battery plant.

In an interview with Automotive News last month, Munoz said EVs like the IONIQ 5 will qualify for the $7,500 federal tax credit once production begins in GA.

Although Hyundai has been passing it on to customers through leasing, “As of October, we’ll be able to do so as well with retail customers who pay cash or finance,” Munoz explained.

Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) confirmed Tuesday that the 2025 IONIQ 5 will be the first production vehicle built at the facility. The new plant will make all IONIQ 5 trims (excluding the IONIQ 5 N) and will eventually be the only plant building IONIQ 5 models for the US.

Hyundai is currently training employees to begin production in the fourth quarter of 2024. Production is expected to start in October.

“We are in the final phase of construction and are getting ready for the 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 to roll off the line,” Oscar Kwon, president and CEO of HMGMA, said.

“It’s the ideal vehicle for us to start production with,” Kwon added. Although Hyundai has yet to officially unveil the 2025 IONIQ 5 for the US market, we have an idea of what to expect.

Hyundai revealed the updated 2025 IONIQ 5 in Korea in March with several new upgrades and features. The new model comes with a bigger battery, new styling, and an added rear wiper.

The IONIQ 5 refresh features an 84 kWh battery, up from 77.4 kWh. With more power, the IONIQ 5s range increased from 458km (285 mi) to 485km (301 mi) in Korea. It also includes slightly faster charging, enabling 10% to 80% in 18 minutes.

Meanwhile, Hyundai introduced a new incentive this month for IONIQ 5 buyers in the US. If you purchase a 2024 Hyundai IONIQ 5, you are now eligible for a $7,500 cash rebate.

If you don’t want to wait for the updated model, the 2024 Hyundai IONIQ 5 is currently offered at some of the lowest prices. You can use our link to find deals on Hyundai IONIQ 5 models in your area.