Hyundai IONIQ 5 vs. Rivian R2
The 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 5 is the cheaper one to own — roughly $9,510 less over five years, mostly because it holds its value better. The Rivian R2 counters with more range (345 vs 245 miles) and the ability to tow (up to 3,500 lbs).
Go with the Hyundai IONIQ 5 for the better long-term value; consider the Rivian R2 if you prioritize more driving range and the ability to tow.
Last updated July 2026 · National-average estimates
Hyundai IONIQ 5 vs. Rivian R2
| Metric | Hyundai IONIQ 5 | Rivian R2 |
|---|---|---|
| MotiveGrid Score | 78 | 72 |
| Cost of Ownership | 79 | 64 |
| Powertrain | 58 | 71 |
| Driver Assistance | 49 | 57 |
| Livability | 40 | 40 |
| Safety | 100 | 80 |
| 5-Year Cost to Own | $45,706 | $55,216 |
| Depreciation (5-yr) | $21,455 | $25,942 |
| Fuel / Energy (5-yr) | $3,585 | $3,373 |
| Insurance (5-yr) | $10,795 | $13,645 |
| Maintenance (5-yr) | $945 | $1,175 |
| Tires (5-yr) | $2,050 | $1,900 |
| Financing (5-yr) | $5,266 | $7,296 |
| Registration (5-yr) | $1,610 | $1,885 |
| Starting Price | $35,000 | $48,490 |
| Horsepower | 168 hp | 350 hp |
| Electric range | 245 mi | 345 mi |
| Cargo volume | 27 cu ft | 28.7 cu ft |
| Seating | 5 | 5 |
| Towing capacity | 0 lbs | 3,500 lbs |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
Five measured pillars, weighted into one score.
Cost, Powertrain, Driver Assistance, Livability, and Safety — each scored against its class, then combined into a single MotiveGrid Score. Built by our engineering team and benchmarked against independent sources like NHTSA, IIHS, and CarEdge. How it’s calculated →
Hyundai IONIQ 5 scores higher overall.
Which vehicle is right for you
Hyundai IONIQ 5 is the better pick for long-term ownership — about $9,510 cheaper over 5 years with stronger fundamentals on running cost.
Rivian R2 still wins if your priority is best for comfort & features.
Cost of Ownership
State
Charging mix
Frequently asked questions
Where these rank
- Hyundai IONIQ 5 ranks #1 of 3 in Safest Compact SUVs and #1 of 3 in Safest EVs.
- Rivian R2 ranks #2 of 3 in Best Driver Assistance — EV and #3 of 3 in Best Driver Assistance — Compact SUV.
Browse all MotiveGrid rankings →
Charge times, connector, and home-charging cost: Hyundai IONIQ 5 charging · Rivian R2 charging
What each one costs at the counter
Both five-year totals above count yearly registration. Neither counts what the state takes on the day you sign — sales tax and the title fee. Those are one-time, they are not the dealer’s to negotiate, and on a car at this price they run to four figures in most states. Work out yours:
- Tax, title and license in New Jerseywhat a car costs to own there
- Tax, title and license in Illinoiswhat a car costs to own there
- Tax, title and license in Pennsylvaniawhat a car costs to own there
- Tax, title and license in Ohiowhat a car costs to own there
- Tax, title and license in Georgiawhat a car costs to own there
Compare tax, title and license across all 22 states we cover →

