Hyundai’s electric SUV finds some footing, with IONIQ 5 sales topping 33,000 in 2026

Hyundai's IONIQ 5 continues to gain ground in the United States, with the electric crossover passing 33,000 sales in 2026 and October deliveries climbing 21% compared with the same month last year. That keeps it among the better-selling EVs in the market outside Tesla, a useful indicator of how the model is holding up against a growing field of rivals.

For Saudi buyers, the figure is worth reading as a sign of maturity rather than a reason to rush. The IONIQ 5 sits in the mid-size electric crossover class — roomier than a compact hatchback but more compact than a full-size family SUV. That makes it a reasonable fit for urban households that want five seats, a practical cargo area and a distinctive design, without stepping up to a larger and thirstier vehicle.

Its competitive set in Saudi showrooms is crowded. Shoppers will likely cross-shop it against the Kia EV6, which shares much of its underpinnings, along with the Tesla Model Y, Nissan Ariya, Toyota bZ4X and a widening group of Chinese electric crossovers now offered locally. Volkswagen's electric SUVs and other European entries round out the segment.

What should buyers watch for? Real-world range in Saudi summer conditions is the first item, since heavy air-conditioning use drains any battery faster than mild-weather testing suggests. Ask about battery cooling and thermal management