We’ve just obtained exclusive spy shots of a mysterious Hyundai IONIQ 5 prototype that throws the current model’s playbook out the window. While the exterior remains identical to the current IONIQ 5, the interior has undergone a radical, high-tech makeover that looks production-ready. This isn’t just a minor tweak; it’s a complete reimagining of Hyundai’s EV cabin philosophy.
The “Tesla-fication” of the IONIQ 5
The most jarring change is the dashboard. Hyundai appears to be moving away from its signature dual-screen horizontal layout in favor of a massive 17- to 18-inch vertical central touchscreen, reminiscent of a Tesla Model S or Ford Mustang Mach-E.
Key Interior Changes Observed:
- Goodbye, Instrument Cluster: Similar to the IONIQ 3 and recent Tucson prototypes, the traditional driver display is gone. Information likely shifts to the central screen or an advanced Head-Up Display (HUD).
- Minimalist Console: A brand-new “center island” replaces the current sliding console.
- Digital Climate Control: There are no physical A/C controls. It appears Hyundai has integrated all HVAC functions directly into the massive display.
- Genesis-Level Luxury: In a surprising twist, the traditional door handles have been replaced by electronic push-buttons, a premium feature currently found in the flagship Genesis G90.
A Radical New Steering Wheel
The steering wheel has also been redesigned for maximum utility with minimal clutter. Instead of a sea of buttons, we see:
- A central roulette-style scroller.
- Two simple tactical buttons (one on each side).
- This suggests a heavy reliance on “blind-touch” navigation or voice commands.
What Are We Looking At?
The “pristine” and “finished” look of the materials suggests this isn’t just a rough engineering rig. It leaves us with two big possibilities:
- A Secondary Facelift: Could Hyundai be planning a “Tech Pack” or a second, more premium facelift to keep the IONIQ 5 competitive against the refreshed Tesla Model 3 “Highland” and upcoming Juniper?
- A Next-Gen Test Mule: It is highly possible that Hyundai is using the current IONIQ 5 body to real-world test the next-generation interior architecture for the 2027/2028 model year.
Conclusion
Given how finished the cabin looks, Hyundai might be preparing to shock the market sooner than we think. If this interior makes it to production, the IONIQ 5 will pivot from “retro-futuristic” to “ultra-minimalist luxury.”
