Hyundai IONIQ 5 Makes History as First-Ever Electric Used Car of the Year at Auto Express Awards 2026

The Hyundai IONIQ 5 has made history at the Auto Express Used Car Awards 2026, becoming the first electric vehicle ever to be named overall Used Car of the Year. The all-electric model also won Best Used Electric Car, while the Hyundai TUCSON was crowned Best Used Mid-Size SUV, making Hyundai the most successful manufacturer at this year’s awards.

The results highlight the continued appeal of Hyundai’s range, recognising the quality, technology, practicality and value that make its vehicles compelling choices for used-car buyers.

IONIQ 5 leads the way for electric vehicles

Since its launch just over five years ago, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 has established itself as a standout electric vehicle, having previously been named overall Car of the Year by Auto Express in 2021.

Its latest success demonstrates how well the model has stood the test of time. Judges praised its distinctive, concept car-inspired design, spacious interior, advanced technology and enjoyable driving experience.

With used examples now available for a little over £13,000, the IONIQ 5 offers an accessible route into electric motoring. Every version delivers more than 200 miles of driving range, while later models can achieve over 300 miles on a single charge.

The IONIQ 5 also benefits from advanced 800V charging technology, allowing the battery to charge from 10% to 80% in under 20 minutes when connected to a suitable rapid charger.

Rich Ingram, Deputy Editor at Auto Express, praised the IONIQ 5 as a brilliant all-rounder, highlighting its combination of striking styling, practicality, technology and value for money. He also described it as a thoroughly deserving winner of the overall Used Car of the Year title.

Hyundai TUCSON wins Best Used Mid-Size SUV

The Hyundai TUCSON also secured a major win, being named Best Used Mid-Size SUV at the 2026 awards.

The accolade builds on the model’s impressive record with Auto Express, having won Best Mid-Size SUV in the publication’s New Car Awards for four consecutive years, from 2021 to 2024.

Judges praised the TUCSON’s refined driving experience, comfortable ride and strong performance, alongside its spacious cabin, which comfortably accommodates five adults, and generous boot capacity.

Used-car buyers can choose from a range of powertrains, including petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, with four-wheel drive available on selected versions. This variety makes the TUCSON a versatile option for drivers looking for a practical family SUV.

The award adds to the TUCSON’s growing collection of used-car honours, following Best Used Family SUV at the 2025 What Car? Used Car Awards and Best Used Car Over £18,000 at the 2025 Scottish Car of the Year Awards.

Recognition of Hyundai’s lasting quality and value

The Auto Express Used Car Awards assess models across 13 categories, considering their original reviews, real-world owner feedback through the Auto Express Driver Power survey and how well their used values have held up.

Hyundai’s success reflects the enduring appeal of its vehicles beyond their first owners, with the IONIQ 5 demonstrating the growing accessibility of electric motoring and the TUCSON continuing to deliver the comfort, space and flexibility expected of a family SUV.

Ashley Andrew, President of Hyundai & Genesis UK, welcomed the recognition, highlighting the significance of the IONIQ 5 becoming the first electric vehicle to win the overall title. He also emphasised the importance of Hyundai’s five-year unlimited mileage warranty and the Hyundai Promise approved used programme in giving customers additional confidence when buying a used vehicle.

Together, the awards underline why the Hyundai IONIQ 5 and TUCSON remain compelling options for drivers seeking technology, practicality and value in their next vehicle.