Hyundai Ioniq 5 XRT: Going Off-Road in 2025

As the electric vehicle (EV) market experiences shifts in demand, Hyundai remains steadfast in its commitment to expanding its all-electric lineup. The automaker is not only introducing new models but also enhancing its existing offerings to cater to a broader audience. A prime example of this strategy is the upcoming 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 XRT, a variant that aims to attract adventure enthusiasts by delivering robust off-road capabilities in an all-electric package.

A New Era for the Ioniq 5

Since its debut in 2021, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 has garnered significant attention as the brand’s first EV built on a dedicated electric platform. With its futuristic design, spacious interior, and impressive performance, the Ioniq 5 quickly became a standout in the compact crossover segment. Now, Hyundai is ready to take the Ioniq 5 to the next level with a mid-cycle update for the 2025 model year, introducing the Ioniq 5 XRT — an EV designed to handle both urban and rugged terrains with ease.

Exterior and Interior Enhancements

The 2025 Ioniq 5 XRT introduces several design tweaks that distinguish it from the rest of the lineup. The XRT model features a distinctive “pixel” bumper that exudes a camouflage-like aesthetic, giving the vehicle a more rugged and adventure-ready appearance. The rear cladding is more pronounced, providing additional protection against rough terrain, which is essential for an off-road vehicle. The Ioniq 5 XRT also comes equipped with unique 18-inch wheels fitted with 235/60 R18 all-terrain tires, enhancing its ability to tackle challenging landscapes.

Inside, the Ioniq 5 XRT is equally prepared for adventure. The interior is outfitted with all-weather floor mats and embossed H-Tex seating surfaces designed to resist water and allow for easy cleanup after a day off the beaten path. A black headliner further adds to the cabin’s rugged yet refined ambiance. Additionally, the XRT package includes practical upgrades such as a rear windshield wiper, more manual controls for climate functions, and a new center console with a relocated wireless smartphone charger.

Off-Road Performance

While the Ioniq 5 XRT’s exterior and interior design are undoubtedly impressive, its true strength lies in its enhanced off-road capabilities. Hyundai has increased the vehicle’s ride height by nearly an inch, improving its approach and departure angles to 19.8 degrees and 30.0 degrees, respectively. These changes make the XRT model more adept at navigating rough terrain, from steep inclines to rocky paths.

The suspension system has been specially tuned for off-roading, ensuring that the Ioniq 5 XRT can handle a variety of rugged conditions. The driver mode selector also features unique settings optimized for off-road driving, allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle’s performance to the demands of their environment. Additionally, the XRT is equipped with front tow hooks capable of handling loads of up to 5,834 pounds, providing added utility for off-road enthusiasts.

Powertrain and Performance

The Ioniq 5 XRT shares its powertrain with other non-N and non-XRT models in the Ioniq 5 lineup. For the 2025 model year, Hyundai is expected to maintain the same power figures as the 2024 version, with the XRT model exclusively available in a twin-motor, all-wheel-drive configuration. This setup delivers an impressive 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque, ensuring that the XRT has plenty of power to conquer both highways and off-road trails.

Hyundai’s engineers are fine-tuning the XRT’s drivetrain to optimize power distribution, allowing the vehicle to precisely shift power to the wheels that need it most, depending on the terrain. While the XRT lacks a traditional rear differential, Hyundai has implemented brake intervention technology to help manage power distribution between the left and right wheels, enhancing the vehicle’s off-road performance.

Battery and Range

The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 lineup, including the XRT model, benefits from upgraded battery packs. Standard Range models now feature a 63.0 kWh battery, up from the previous 58.0 kWh, while Long Range models are equipped with an 84 kWh battery, up from 77.4 kWh. These upgrades, combined with minor aerodynamic improvements, are expected to result in slight increases in range across the Ioniq 5 lineup.

The Ioniq 5 XRT, with its all-wheel-drive configuration, is projected to deliver a range of over 250 miles on a single charge, making it well-suited for both daily commuting and weekend adventures. Other AWD variants in the lineup are expected to achieve up to 280 miles of range, while rear-wheel-drive models should offer over 240 miles with the Standard Range battery and over 310 miles with the Long Range pack.

Pricing and Availability

Hyundai has yet to announce final pricing for the 2025 Ioniq 5 lineup, but the XRT is anticipated to be the most affordable off-road-capable EV in the market, with a starting price expected to be well below the $67,495 base MSRP of the high-performance Ioniq 5 N. The 2025 Ioniq 5 models, including the XRT, are slated to arrive at dealerships in mid-November, with production taking place at Hyundai’s new $6 billion EV production facility in Savannah, Georgia.

Due to the domestic content requirements of the Inflation Reduction Act, the Ioniq 5 currently qualifies for $3,750 in federal tax credits when purchased, and the full $7,500 credit when leased. Hyundai is actively working to adjust its supply chain to make the Ioniq 5 eligible for the full $7,500 credit for purchases, although no specific timeline has been provided.

The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 XRT represents an exciting evolution in Hyundai’s all-electric lineup. By combining the innovative design and advanced technology of the Ioniq 5 with enhanced off-road capabilities, Hyundai is poised to attract a new segment of adventure-seeking EV buyers. With its rugged design, powerful performance, and competitive pricing, the Ioniq 5 XRT is set to make a significant impact in the growing market for off-road-capable electric vehicles. Whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring the great outdoors, the Ioniq 5 XRT offers a versatile and sustainable solution for modern drivers.