Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 XRT, assembled at the Hyundai Motor Group Manufacturing America (HMGMA) in Georgia, has been recognised as the Best U.S.-Built Sports Vehicle of the Year by American Cars And Racing (ACAR). This accolade highlights the vehicle’s innovation, appeal, value, and overall excellence. The awards focus on new or significantly updated 2025-model-year vehicles made in the U.S., with categories including Car, Truck, SUV, Luxury Vehicle, and Sports Vehicle.
The IONIQ 5 XRT is designed for those seeking all-electric adventures with off-road capabilities. Ricky Lao, director of product planning at Hyundai Motor North America, stated that this model offers enhanced off-road capability and a rugged appearance. “The IONIQ 5 XRT is designed to appeal to customers who want to play in the dirt and have all-electric adventures,” he said. The vehicle was photographed in California City on August 15, 2024.
The IONIQ 5 XRT stands out with its aggressive front and rear design featuring unique bumpers and stylish side skirts. It also includes dedicated 18-inch aluminum wheels that enhance its off-road capabilities. These features are complemented by higher ground clearance and suspension tuning. Inside, the cabin offers a dynamic driving environment with H-Tex seating surfaces featuring unique patterning, XRT badging and logos, and a black headliner.
Gary Gastelu, executive editor of American Cars And Racing, praised the IONIQ 5 XRT for expanding its horizons while maintaining comfort. “Hyundai took one of the best compact electric SUVs and broadened its horizons with the IONIQ 5 XRT,” he remarked. The vehicle opens up new roads without sacrificing everyday comfort.
Hyundai continues to expand its IONIQ 5 lineup by introducing an off-road-capable XRT model with design upgrades and customer-focused features. This expansion reflects Hyundai’s commitment to providing more options for consumers seeking electric vehicles with enhanced capabilities.
American Cars And Racing aims to deliver news on automobiles built by American brands and foreign automakers producing vehicles in the USA. The publication covers various aspects of car culture, including racing, customisation, and collector scenes.
Hyundai Motor America supports Hyundai Motor Company’s vision of Progress for Humanity by offering a technology-rich lineup of cars, SUVs, and electrified vehicles in the U.S. With significant operations across the country, including headquarters in California and manufacturing plants in Alabama and Georgia under development, Hyundai contributes $20.1 billion annually to the U.S. economy while supporting 190,000 jobs.
The recognition of the IONIQ 5 XRT as Best U.S.-Built Sports Vehicle underscores Hyundai’s dedication to innovation and quality in electric vehicles. As Hyundai continues to expand its offerings with models like the IONIQ 5 XRT, it remains committed to meeting consumer demands for advanced electric vehicles that offer both performance and comfort.
