Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) has delivered the first 11 units of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 EV in Malaysia. With over 200 bookings made to date, the electric SUV looks to be a popular option among Malaysians.

Not only are these 11 owners the first to receive the Ioniq 5 on our shores, they also get a one-year membership with ChargEV courtesy of Yinson GreenTech. Normally, this would’ve cost RM240 annually, which gives ChargEV users access to 336 EV chargers in 236 locations throughout Malaysia.

Three different variants of the Ioniq 5 are offered in Malaysia. The base Lite model, for one, retails at RM199,888, which offers a 58kWh battery (good for up to 384km range) and rear-wheel drive. The mid-tier Plus variant, on the other hand, is a better-equipped version of the Lite for RM229,888.

As for the range-topping Max, it costs RM259,888 for a larger 72.6kWh battery (returning up to 430km range) and dual-motor AWD. Do note that as announced at Budget 2022, the Ioniq 5 is fully exempted from import and excise duties, as well as road tax. Needless to say, this is a very good incentive to get the EV…if it fits your budget.

Powering the 58kWh RWD models of the Ioniq 5 – that is, the Lite and Plus variants – is a rear motor that outputs 170PS and 350Nm of torque, allowing them to do the century sprint in 8.5 seconds. As for the higher-end Max model with a dual-motor AWD configuration, it offers a whopping combined output of 305PS and 605Nm of torque; it can go from 0-100kmph in only 5.2 seconds.

Other specifications of the Ioniq 5 include seven airbags, fabric upholstery for the Lite (leather for the Plus and Max trims), Hyundai SmartSense – it includes lane keeping assist and adaptive cruise control with stop and go – a 12.3-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, as well as 19-inch alloy wheels; 20-inch for the Max.

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is now available for booking in Malaysia. You can also place your booking online for RM1,000 through HSDM’s Cl!ck to Buy platform. Not sure if this electric SUV is for you? Then read our full review of the Ioniq 5; our video review can also be found below.