Two family-sized EVs at similar prices — but with very different charging speeds and software quality. The Ioniq 5 has a significant technical edge. Here is whether it justifies the price difference on the Irish used market.
A comfortable, well-built family SUV EV with a familiar VW feel. Good range, quality interior. Software issues on early examples are well documented — always check for latest OTA updates applied.
Better range, significantly faster charging, more interior space, and more advanced technology. The 800V architecture is a meaningful real-world advantage on long Irish journeys. Clearer winner on the spec sheet.
| Category | VW ID.4 | Hyundai Ioniq 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Real-world range | 340–400km | 380–450km ✓ |
| Max charge speed | 135kW / 400V | 220kW / 800V ✓ |
| 10–80% charge time | ~35 mins | ~18 mins ✓ |
| Interior space | Good | Flat floor ✓ |
| Software reliability | Early bugs known | More stable ✓ |
| V2L power export | No | Yes ✓ |
| Ride quality | Comfortable | Comfortable |
| VW familiarity | Yes ✓ | Different UX |
| Irish price (used) | From €26k ✓ | From €30k |
| Warranty | 4-year | 5-year ✓ |
Early 2021 ID.4 examples had well-documented software bugs affecting the infotainment, climate control, and occasionally charging. Always verify the latest software version has been applied at a VW dealer before buying a 2021 ID.4. Post-2022 examples are significantly more stable.
On a long Irish journey — Dublin to Kerry, for example — the Ioniq 5's 800V charging means a meaningful top-up stop takes 18–20 minutes versus 35+ for the ID.4. Over a year of occasional long trips this adds up. At urban Ionity or ESB 150kW chargers the difference is less pronounced, but on a 350kW Ionity charger the Ioniq 5 pulls significantly ahead.
The Ioniq 5 wins on every technical metric — faster charging, better range, more space, more reliable software. The €3,000–€5,000 price premium on the Irish used market is justified for a buyer keeping the car 4+ years. The ID.4 makes sense if you find a well-priced 2022+ example (post software fixes) and the lower entry price matters. Avoid early 2021 ID.4 examples unless software has been fully updated at a VW dealer.
A Cartell or Motorcheck report costs €10–€15 and takes two minutes. These are the flags to watch for on a used VW ID.4 or Hyundai Ioniq 5:
Tell us your budget, charging setup, and daily mileage — we will find the right used EV and flag any battery concerns before you buy.
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