Hyundai Motor's IONIQ 5 / Courtesy of Hyundai Motor

By Kim Hyun-bin

Hyundai Motor's IONIQ 5 has been selected as the 2023 SUV of the Year by MotorTrend, a world-renowned automobile magazine based in Los Angeles, the automaker said Friday. This is the first time Hyundai Motor received this award.

The IONIQ 5 is the first electric vehicle (EV) to win the SUV of the Year award announced by MotorTrend.

The SUV of the Year award evaluated a total of 45 car models. Of these, 25 models were EVs.

"For the first time in MotorTrend's 74-year history, the majority of contenders vying for MotorTrend SUV of the Year were electrified, with hybrid, plug-in hybrid or full battery-electric power," said Ed Loh, head of editorial at MotorTrend Group. "The sheer volume and capability of all contenders made it one of the most competitive SUV of the Year programs ever, which is great news for consumers looking for efficient, future-forward SUVs and crossovers."

The IONIQ 5 won SUV of the Year by excelling in the MotorTrend of the Year award's six key criteria: safety, efficiency, value, advancement in design, engineering excellence and performance of intended function.

"IONIQ 5 winning MotorTrend's SUV of the Year reflects Hyundai's relentless focus on world-class product development, design, engineering and manufacturing," Hyundai Motor President and CEO Chang Jae-hoon said. "This is one of the most prestigious accolades in the automotive industry and we are honored that IONIQ 5 is being rewarded for its excellent range, fast-charging capability, progressive design, practical interior space and advanced technology."

The IONIQ 5 has continued to receive global awards and favorable reviews based on its high product competitiveness and safety. Previously, the IONIQ 5 won the 2022 World Car of the Year, World Electric Vehicle of the Year and World Car Design of the Year as well as German Car of the Year, UK Car of the Year, Auto Express' Car of the Year and Auto Bild's Electric Car of the Year.