The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5, a refreshed compact all-electric SUV, has been equipped with Tesla's North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, allowing it to tap into Tesla's vast Supercharger network. However, a recent test drive experience has exposed a significant gap in charging convenience, highlighting the need for standardized charge port locations across the industry.

The issue arose when the Ioniq 5's charging cord, nestled in the driver's side cabinet, proved too short to reach the charging station's cable, forcing the driver to either wait for another Tesla to vacate its space or find a CCS-equipped charging station and use the adapter provided with the car. This inconvenience is not solely Hyundai's fault, as the Ioniq 5 has always had its charging port on the rear passenger side, and relocating it would be a costly proposition.

Tesla has acknowledged the problem and plans to roll out its V4 charging stations with longer cables, which should alleviate the issue. However, the company also encourages vehicle manufacturers to standardize charge port locations to the rear driver side or front passenger side, a sentiment echoed by many in the industry.

In the meantime, buyers of the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 will have better luck finding a CCS station and using the adapter. Hyundai claims the Ioniq 5 can go from 10% to 80% of charge in about 20 minutes at a CCS charger, whereas the same fill-up would take up to 30 minutes at an NACS charger.

Hyundai is taking steps to make charging more convenient for its customers. The company is offering a $400 charging credit or a free ChargePoint home charger with the purchase of an Ioniq 5. Additionally, owners of older Hyundai EVs with native CCS ports can obtain a free NACS adapter through the MyHyundai owner portal starting in March. Hyundai owners will also have access to the planned Ionna charging network, a collaboration between BMW, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, Kia, Stellantis, and Toyota, which aims to have 30,000 NACS and CCS charging points by 2030.

Beyond the charging conundrum, the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 boasts several key upgrades, including larger batteries, increased range, and new trim options. The standard range battery has been bumped up to 63 kWh, while the extended range sits at 84 kWh, resulting in up to 318 miles of range for a rear-wheel-drive Ioniq 5 with the larger battery. Power output varies depending on the drivetrain, battery, and trim, with the most powerful setup delivering 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque.

Other notable features include a digital key function that works with a phone inside a pocket or purse, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and over-the-air updates. The new XRT trim, designed for venturing off the beaten path, comes with a one-inch lift, 29-inch Continental CrossContact ATR tires, and a Terrain button on the steering wheel offering modes for Snow, Mud, and Sand.

Despite the charging inconvenience, the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 remains a compelling option in the electric SUV market, with its zippy acceleration, well-balanced handling, and comfortable ride. The starting price for a base SE model in rear-wheel drive with the standard battery is $43,975, including the destination fee, while the off-roady XRT can be had for $56,875, and a top Limited trim in all-wheel drive will set you back $59,575.

In a crowded market, the Ioniq 5 faces stiff competition from the likes of the Ford Mustang Mach-E and the Kia EV6, both of which offer unique features and advantages. However, Hyundai's commitment to improving charging convenience and its focus on delivering a well-rounded driving experience make the 2025 Ioniq 5 a worthy contender in the electric vehicle space.