What Is the XRT?
- XRT = Extreme Rugged Terrain: A rugged trim atop the refreshed 2025 Ioniq 5 lineup featuring unique styling and mild off‑road upgrades
- Dual‑motor AWD only, with a boosted 84 kWh battery and 320 hp/446 lb‑ft torque, giving strong on‑and‑off‑road performance
Key Off‑Road Enhancements
- +1 inch (23–24 mm) lift, raising ground clearance to around 7″; approach/departure angles improved to ~19.8° and 30°
- 235/60R‑18 all‑terrain tires on exclusive matte-black wheels
- Front and rear pixel-camouflaged bumpers with real bright red tow hooks that can handle 5,834 lb pulls
- Terrain mode button adds Snow, Mud, Sand settings via the steering wheel with recalibrated power and traction control
On‑Road & Off‑Road Behavior
- Agile & playful on loose surfaces — reviewers liken it to a mini rally‑cross car more than a traditional off‑roader
- Low center of gravity combined with instant torque makes dirt drifts accessible and fun, though the extra weight (~4,700 lb) and softer sidewalls introduce understeer off‑road
- On pavement, expect some wallow and reduced grip from the knobby tires, but ride comfort remains decent
Trade‑Offs & Quirks
- Range drops from ~290 mi to about 259 mi EPA due to added weight and tire inefficiencies
- No skid plates or battery underbody armor, which has raised concerns among off‑roaders
- Polarizing styling: pixel camo bumpers and bare black plastic look “unfinished” to some, though others appreciate the rugged, utilitarian vibe
Who Should Consider It?
- Weekend dirt-roaders / forest trails – enjoy the fun of light off‑road without needing full rock‑crawler capability.
- EV owners wanting utility + style – added height, durable bumpers, and tow hooks are practical for potholes, curbs, and occasional towing.
- Not ideal for heavy off-roading – no rock crawling, no serious underbody protection, just a fun soft-roader with flair and personality.
In short, the Ioniq 5 XRT is weird in the best way: it’s not a hardcore off-roader, but it brings off‑road aesthetics and moderate capability in a compact, zippy, tech-packed EV. A “soft‑roader” with rally spirit—and definitely a conversation starter at trailheads.
Let me know what you’d like to explore next — pricing, charging options, how it compares to the Mach‑E Rally or Subaru Wilderness?