News.Life

<p>
 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1FJCZR" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1FJCZR.jpg"/>
 <h3>
  From car camping to daily commuting, the Hyundai handled 70,000 miles without any mechanical issues.
 </h3>
 <p>
  The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is one of the best mainstream EVs on sale. If you don't want to get a Tesla, for any number of reasons, it may be the best option. The more I hear from owners, the more I believe that.
 </p>
 <p>
  Take this new owner review from
  Carlos Vargas on YouTube
  . Vargas bought a used 2022
  Ioniq 5
  Two and a half years ago, when it had 17,000 miles on it, he has since racked up an additional 55,000 miles. He is quite certain about his affection for the vehicle. "It’s time to delve deep into what makes me adore this car so much and why I harbor absolutely no second thoughts,” Vargas states in the video.
 </p>
 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/video/AA1FJvzq" data-reference="video"/>
 <p>
  He enjoys the driving experience of his all-wheel-drive Ioniq 5, particularly appreciating its fast charging capabilities.
  10%-80% within less than 20 minutes
  Vargas mentions that he rarely uses a charger for more than 20 minutes. The vehicle packs ample power, and even after logging 71,900 miles with consistent usage, the Ioniq 5 hasn’t experienced significant problems. The only issue encountered was with the power charge door, which required repair at an authorized dealership.
 </p>
 <p>
  This aligns with my view as well as yours.
  InsideEVs
  editor-in-chief Patrick George:
  Charging doors for power are a ridiculous concept.
  That needs to be eliminated. I have never encountered a gasoline vehicle equipped with a fuel door flap, and attempting to create one would be foolish. Adding a potential point of failure to an essential part without significant advantage is illogical, particularly since powered doors are less efficient to operate compared to traditional flaps.
 </p>
 <h2>
  Related Stories
 </h2>
</p>
<p>
 <ul>
  <p>
   <li>
    Hyundai Ioniq 6 Owner Review: 'ThereReally Is No Beating'It
   </li>
  </p>
  <p>
   <li>
    Chevrolet Equinox EV 20,000-Mile Test: Excellent for Families, Troubled Software
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  <p>
   <li>
    2024 Chevy Blazer EV Owner Review After Six Months: Pros and Cons
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  <p>
   <li>
    The 2026 Kia EV4 Nails It with Its Approach to Electric Vehicle Charging
   </li>
  </p>
  <p>
   <li>
    Hyundai's ICCU Issue: What Information Is Available
   </li>
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  <p>
   <li>
    You're Worrying About The Wrong EV Batteries
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  </p>
 </ul>
 <p>
  Still, the Ioniq 5 is proving to be a reliable car, even if Vargas skipped the 40,000 battery coolant flush that Hyundai recommends. That doesn't mean it's all good news, though.
 </p>
 <p>
  Vargas, like many other people, hates Hyundai's software suite. The smartphone app is bad and buggy, the infotainment system is middling and the mapping system is bad. His car doesn't get major over-the-air updates, either, so it's not getting better over time the way many EVs are. It used to get map updates, but even those didn't include all of the new chargers. That's annoying because the Ioniq 5 will only precondition the battery if you set a fast charger as your destination.
 </p>
 <p>
  He also called out another pain point: If you're expecting clear and consistent communication from the automaker itself, Hyundai doesn't really deliver.
 </p>
 <p>
  Although his vehicle lacked the feared
  Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU) problem
  The company failed to effectively communicate with customers throughout that ordeal, and its dealers have earned a reputation for unreliability. According to Vargas, some dealers were apparently unaware of how to replace the Ioniq 5’s coolant, whereas others imposed exorbitant charges.
 </p>
 <p>
  This serves as a solid overview of owning an electric vehicle from a manufacturer that’s still refining both its approach to making competitive EVs and developing software-defined vehicles. While Hyundai excels at one aspect of this formula, it hasn’t quite mastered the other yet. We look forward to the day they achieve full proficiency since their EVs generally excel across many areas. However, compared directly with consumer-focused competitors such as Tesla and Rivian, Hyundai and Kia may fall short primarily due to issues related to dealership experiences.
 </p>
 <p>
  Despite these concerns, the vehicle’s excellence and dependability make them easy to overlook. In my opinion, it remains among the top electric cars I suggest, and it’s certainly worthwhile to experience through a test drive.
 </p>
 <p>
  Contact the author:
  Mack.Hogan@insideevs.com
  .
 </p>
</p>

70,000 Miles In: Hyundai Ioniq 5 Owner Raves "No Regrets"

From car camping to daily commuting, the Hyundai handled 70,000 miles without any mechanical issues. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is one...

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/slideshow/AA1CsHWh" data-reference="slideshow"/>
<p>
 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1CsKoH" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1CsKoH.jpg"/>
 <h3>
  Audi enhanced the core excellence of the S3 through several subtle modifications underneath the surface.
 </h3>
 <p>
  This car acts as a fresh start. Amidst our constant struggle with excess and deficiency, the 2025 Audi S3 strikes a perfect balance. It offers outstanding solutions to numerous issues. Additionally, recent subtle improvements under its hood—including significant components borrowed from the larger RS3—enhance its enjoyment factor without compromising the comfort and practicality that have always made it attractive.
 </p>
 <p>
  Even driving the
  S3
  As you move around town, the enhancements catch your eye right away.
  Audi
  finally upped its steering game, moving past the overly light, vague feel that’s characterized its cars for years now. Same deal with the brakes. The pedal is basically perfect, firm and with just the right amount of travel. It’s the first time I’ve ever thought about the brake feel in an Audi.
 </p>
 <div class="table-wrapper">
  <table>
   <tr>
    <td>
     Quick Specs
    </td>
    <td>
     2025 Audi S3
    </td>
   </tr>
   <tr>
    <td>
     Engine
    </td>
    <td>
     Turbocharged 2.0-Liter Four-Cylinder
    </td>
   </tr>
   <tr>
    <td>
     Output
    </td>
    <td>
     328 Kilowatts / 400 Newton-Meters
    </td>
   </tr>
   <tr>
    <td>
     0-60 MPH
    </td>
    <td>
     4.4 Seconds
    </td>
   </tr>
   <tr>
    <td>
     Curb Weight
    </td>
    <td>
     3,549 Pounds
    </td>
   </tr>
   <tr>
    <td>
     Starting Price / Priced as Shown
    </td>
    <td>
     $49,995 / $60,840
    </td>
   </tr>
  </table>
 </div>
 <p>
  The optional 19-inch wheels make the low-speed ride feel somewhat harsh due to solid bumps, yet the damping remains impressive. In this particular model, we have the additional $1,100 S Sport Package which includes adaptive dampers; however, these aren't an option for the basic S3 version. Although I would prefer more variation across different driving settings, their handling of various road conditions was commendable.
 </p>
 <p>
  Like my coworker Chris Rosales mentioned in his initial test-drive of the S3, Audi designers completely revamped how their vehicles handle, and the outcomes are impressive. There’s still more to praise though.
 </p>
 <p>
  The S3 gets Audi’s "Torque Splitter" rear differential from the RS3. Built on Volkswagen’s MQB platform, which has been used in models like the Golf for more than a decade, the S3 can direct up to 50% of its power to the rear wheels. However, with dual mult plate clutches within the differential, this vehicle distributes that power between the two rear wheels as needed.
 </p>
 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1CsDPJ" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1CsDPJ.jpg"/>
 <div class="source-title">
  Image courtesy of: Chris Perkins / Motor1
 </div>
 <blockquote class="short_quote">
  Advantages: Perfect Size, Adequate Power, Torque Distributor Adds Enjoyment, Impressive Cabin
 </blockquote>
 <p>
  In the updated Dynamic Plus driving mode, where stability control switches to "Sport," the differential really showcases its capabilities. Although calling the Torque Splitter might sound cooler when spoken with a Bavarian accent, it doesn’t transform the S3 into a drifting beast. Instead, by applying extra power to the outer rear wheel during turns, it significantly enhances agility. You can accelerate sooner while taking corners, causing the car to rotate gracefully. Given how consistently stable yet somewhat subdued this model has been, the addition of the torque splitter brings out fantastic personality traits.
 </p>
 <p>
  Should the S3 detect excessive oversteer, perhaps due to driving on a slick surface, it has the capability to apply extra power to an inner wheel, thereby helping to realign the vehicle. This sophisticated system is employed effectively by Audi for this purpose.
 </p>
 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1CsFCO" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1CsFCO.jpg"/>
 <div class="source-title">
  Image courtesy of: Chris Perkins / Motor1
 </div>
 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1CsHWn" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1CsHWn.jpg"/>
 <div class="source-title">
  Photo by: Audi
 </div>
 <p>
  In 2025, Audi introduced some changes to the exterior that didn’t quite win me over. While it remains an attractive vehicle, the black, two-dimensional Audi logos included with the $1,650 Black Optic package appear somewhat inexpensive. Given how strikingly good the S3 looks in vibrant shades like blue, red, and yellow, opting for plain old white seems rather uninspired. At best, though, this understated color helps the S3 mix seamlessly within typical traffic flow.
 </p>
 <p>
  On the inside, it’s quintessential Audi done right. While newer Audis may skimp on interior quality, the S3 doesn’t compromise here; boasting high-quality materials and excellent ergonomic design. Every button offers a pleasing "click," and even though this model has an outdated infotainment setup, it remains refreshingly simple to use. The Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster still leads the pack when it comes to such technology, and thankfully, you get actual buttons for controlling the temperature rather than touch-sensitive ones.
 </p>
 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1CsTzT" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1CsTzT.jpg"/>
 <div class="source-title">
  Image courtesy of: Chris Perkins / Motor1
 </div>
 <blockquote class="short_quote">
  Drawbacks: Firm Suspension with 19-Inch Wheels, Higher Priced Compared to VW Golf R
 </blockquote>
 <p>
  A special nod should be given to the seating, which boasts excellent quilting and provides proper support throughout. Although the rear seats are somewhat tight, this can be overlooked if you're primarily carrying children.
 </p>
 <p>
  Fans of VW and Audi models will recognize the powertrain, which continues to impress. This setup features the well-known EA888 2.0-liter inline-four engine coupled with a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. In this iteration of the S3, you'll find an increase in horsepower from 306 to 328 hp, whereas torque stays robust at 295 lb-ft.
 </p>
 <p>
  It's intriguing that this engine has a higher idle speed compared to most contemporary cars, typically ranging between 900-1000 rpm. If you handle the transmission as you would with a traditional automatic, you'll find yourself surging forward quite abruptly when starting off. Getting accustomed to this takes some time, but after you're underway, there aren’t any peculiarities associated with the dual-clutch system.
 </p>
 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1CsTzV" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1CsTzV.jpg"/>
 <div class="source-title">
  Image courtesy of: Chris Perkins / Motor1
 </div>
 <p>
  When you switch to its sportier settings, the engine takes on a nearly quintuple cylinder sound characterised by an evident turbo whine. Power comes through robustly from lower RPMs all the way up to around 7,000 rpm. Additionally, the dual-clutch transmission performs exceptionally well during shifts both up and down gears. Even though the paddle shifters continue to have that unsatisfying plastic texture, engaging manual mode adds extra enjoyment.
 </p>
 <p>
  Certainly, the main query regarding the S3 is whether it justifies the higher price compared to the Golf R. Given how underwhelming the Mk8 has been, my answer would be yes. However, we have not had an opportunity to test-drive the updated Mk8.5 Golf R, which corrects numerous issues present in its predecessor and receives the same increase in horsepower as the Audi, along with the added feature of the fancy rear differential. Additionally, one must consider the convenience provided by the S3’s back hatch for everyday usability.
 </p>
 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1CsFCT" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1CsFCT.jpg"/>
 <div class="source-title">
  Image courtesy of: Chris Perkins / Motor1
 </div>
 <p>
  However, the Audi doesn't cost significantly more than the Golf R, starting at $49,995 compared to the Volkswagen's $48,325. If you're looking for the desired version of the S3 though, the mid-range Premium Plus trim will set you back $52,395; this requires an additional $1,100 for the S Sport Pack to get the adaptive dampers included as standard on the Golf. Our test car was a fully-loaded Prestige model priced at $60,840 with all options selected. While it offers plenty of premium features, they aren’t essential additions.
 </p>
 <p>
  We'll take the revamped Golf R for a test drive shortly, after which we can provide a more informed assessment. However, my recommendation remains: consider both options. I believe the S3 could well justify the additional cost.
 </p>
 <p>
  Audi has excelled in maintaining the strengths of the S3 while refining the driving dynamics to add more character to the vehicle. Don’t dismiss this car; you do so at your risk. It’s a perfect sporty saloon.
 </p>
 <h3 class="subheader">
  Competitors
 </h3>
 <ul>
  <li>
   Acura Integra Type S
  </li>
  <li>
   BMW M235i Gran Coupe
  </li>
  <li>
   BMW M240i Coupe
  </li>
  <li>
   Mercedes-AMG CLA35
  </li>
  <li>
   Volkswagen Golf R
  </li>
 </ul>
 <h2>
  More Audi Reviews
 </h2>
</p>
<p>
 <ul>
  <p>
   <li>
    The 2025 Audi RS3 Proves It’s Even More Impressive: A Test Drive Review
   </li>
  </p>
  <p>
   <li>
    The 2025 Audi S3 Is Simply Impressive: A First-Drive Assessment
   </li>
  </p>
 </ul>
</p>
<p>
 <table>
  <tr>
   <td>
    2025 Audi S3
   </td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
   <td>
    Engine
   </td>
   <td>
    2.0-Liter Turbocharged Four-Cylinder
   </td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
   <td>
    Output
   </td>
   <td>
    328 Horsepower / 295 Pound-Feet
   </td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
   <td>
    Transmission
   </td>
   <td>
    Seven-Speed Dual-Clutch
   </td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
   <td>
    Drive Type
   </td>
   <td>
    All-Wheel Drive
   </td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
   <td>
    Speed 0-60 MPH
   </td>
   <td>
    4.4 Seconds (est.)
   </td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
   <td>
    Maximum speed
   </td>
   <td>
    155 MPH
   </td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
   <td>
    Weight
   </td>
   <td>
    3,549 Pounds
   </td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
   <td>
    Seating Capacity
   </td>
   <td>
    5
   </td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
   <td>
    Cargo Volume
   </td>
   <td>
    8.3 Cubic Feet
   </td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
   <td>
    Base Price
   </td>
   <td>
    $45,995
   </td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
   <td>
    As-Tested Price
   </td>
   <td>
    $60,840
   </td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
   <td>
    On Sale
   </td>
   <td>
    Now
   </td>
  </tr>
 </table>
</p>

The 2025 Audi S3: A Must-Drive Sports Sedan – Full Review

Audi enhanced the core excellence of the S3 through several subtle modifications underneath the surface. This car acts as a fr...