Hyundai IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 Named Cars.com 2026 Top EV Picks

Hyundai continues to lead the charge in electric innovation, earning top honors from one of the nation’s most trusted automotive sources. The Hyundai IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 were named Cars.com 2026 Top EV Picks, celebrated for their innovation, comfort, and real-world performance.

At Crain Hyundai of North Little Rock, we’re proud to help Central Arkansas drivers experience Hyundai’s award-winning electric lineup—vehicles built for both city life and weekend adventures.

Hyundai’s Double Win in 2026

Each year, Cars.com evaluates dozens of electric vehicles across multiple segments, including SUVs, sedans, and luxury models. For 2026, Hyundai earned two of the most coveted awards in the lineup:

• IONIQ 5: Top Pick 2-Row Electric SUV for the third consecutive year.
• IONIQ 6: Top Pick Electric Car for its sleek design, range, and cutting-edge efficiency.

Drivers in North Little Rock love how the IONIQ 5 makes daily driving simple and comfortable. Its open, quiet cabin and quick acceleration are perfect for commutes along I-40 or weekend drives toward the Arkansas River Trail. The IONIQ 6 brings refined performance and style, offering up to 342 miles of range and fast charging from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes.

Both models showcase Hyundai’s industry leadership in EV safety and design. Earlier this year, they also earned 2025 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ awards, highlighting their SmartSense driver-assist systems and advanced crash protection.

Other 2026 Top EV Picks from Cars.com

Cars.com also recognized several other standout models from across the EV market:

Top Pick Value EV: 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV

Affordable and efficient, with over 300 miles of range.

Top Pick 3-Row EV: 2026 Kia EV9

Spacious and comfortable for family travel.

Top Pick Luxury EV: 2026 Lucid Air

Praised for luxury craftsmanship and 512-mile range.

Top Pick EV Pickup Truck: 2026 Chevrolet Silverado EV

Long-range capability meets strong towing power.

Even among this strong competition, Hyundai stood out as the only automaker to win in two major categories, reinforcing the IONIQ lineup’s perfect balance of technology, comfort, and real-world usability.

Hyundai also impressed U.S. News & World Report, where both IONIQ models earned high honors in the 2025 Best Hybrid and EV Awards, further confirming Hyundai’s leadership in innovation.

Why These Awards Matter to North Little Rock Drivers

For Central Arkansas drivers, these awards mean more than just recognition—they show that Hyundai is designing EVs made for everyday life. Whether you’re navigating McCain Boulevard, cruising toward Burns Park, or heading downtown, the IONIQ lineup delivers the performance, efficiency, and comfort that modern drivers demand.

Safety remains a Hyundai hallmark. Along with these EV accolades, both IONIQ models were recognized as 2024 IIHS Top Safety Picks, joining nine Hyundai models that achieved high ratings for protection and driver-assist technology.

And thanks to Tesla Supercharger compatibility, both IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 drivers can enjoy convenient, fast charging on longer trips across Arkansas.

Inside the IONIQ 5: Everyday Comfort Meets Electric Power

The IONIQ 5 redefines the electric SUV experience with a futuristic yet functional design. Inside, it offers a serene, spacious cabin and user-friendly features for everyday use.

Key Highlights:

• DC fast charging (10% to 80% in under 25 minutes)
• Reclining rear seats for maximum comfort
• Flexible cargo capacity for gear or groceries
• Simple, tactile controls for intuitive driving

Cars.com reviewers praised the IONIQ 5 for being approachable and family-friendly—an SUV that feels right at home on Arkansas roads.

IONIQ 6: Sleek Design, Smarter Efficiency

The Hyundai IONIQ 6 blends elegance with intelligent engineering. With an aerodynamic shape and an impressive 132 MPGe combined, it’s one of the most efficient EVs available.

This model’s design excellence has earned accolades beyond Cars.com, including recognition in Fatherly’s Top 10 Family Cars of the Year and The Drive’s Best EV of 2023. Inside, the minimalist cabin features dual digital screens, wireless Apple CarPlay, and advanced safety technology—making it ideal for drivers ready to step into the future of EV mobility.

Hyundai’s Ongoing EV Excellence

Winning Cars.com’s Top EV Picks for multiple years shows Hyundai’s lasting dedication to innovation. With the addition of the IONIQ 9, Hyundai continues to expand its electric lineup to meet every driver’s needs.

At Crain Hyundai of North Little Rock, we’re excited to help local drivers explore Hyundai’s latest EVs. Even if the IONIQ 5 or IONIQ 6 isn’t currently on the lot, our team can locate or reserve one through the Crain Automotive Team so you can experience these award-winning models firsthand.

FAQs About the Hyundai IONIQ Lineup

What’s the difference between the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6?
The IONIQ 5 is a two-row electric SUV with roomy cargo space, while the IONIQ 6 is a sleek, aerodynamic sedan focused on efficiency.

How far can these EVs travel on one charge?
The IONIQ 5 offers around 300 miles of range, while the IONIQ 6 reaches up to 342 miles, depending on configuration and driving conditions.

Where can I charge my Hyundai EV in North Little Rock? 
Public charging stations are available near major routes like McCain Boulevard, I-40, and JFK Boulevard, plus both models support access to Tesla Superchargers.

Are IONIQ models available at Crain Hyundai of North Little Rock?
Availability varies, but our staff can find or reserve your preferred model quickly through the Crain network.

Experience Hyundai’s Award-Winning Electric Vehicles

The Hyundai IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 prove that electric driving can be practical, efficient, and exciting. Visit Crain Hyundai of North Little Rock to test-drive these award-winning models and experience Hyundai’s innovation in motion.

Schedule your test drive, explore financing, or start your EV journey today with Crain Hyundai of North Little Rock.

Tags: Cars.com Top EV Picks 2026, Electric Vehicles North Little Rock, Hyundai EV Central Arkansas, Hyundai IONIQ North Little Rock
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