CarBlogIndia’s Annual Auto Awards 2024 were largely dominated by the Hyundai VERNA and IONIQ 5. These two took the crown for the titles of ‘Car of the Year’ and ‘Electric Car of the Year’, respectively. Every year, we organize an event to facilitate the top-performing vehicles across numerous categories. The ultimate aim is to recognize the distinguished vehicle in each category. To come to a conclusion, our expert jury gets into the nitty gritty of each car to ensure a meticulous process in deciding the winners. Let us explain why we chose the two as the best products in their respective categories.
Hyundai VERNA at CarBlogIndia’s Annual Auto Awards
As mentioned previously, the Hyundai VERNA is our ‘Car of the Year.’ The VERNA is a popular nameplate in the C2 sedan segment, with each of its four generations being considerably successful. In its latest generation, the sedan has pushed the envelope when it comes to design, performance, safety and after-sales.
Hyundai has always been the one to load its cars to the brim with the latest features and conveniences to ensure the owners feel pampered without spending exorbitant sums. That has distinguished Hyundai products from its peers in every segment of our market. With the latest VERNA, this trend continues, which is why it remains one of the top choices for customers at this price point despite tough competition from new players.
Specs
The current-gen Hyundai VERNA is offered with two powertrain options – a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated 4-cylinder petrol and a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder GDi turbo petrol engine. These generate 115 PS / 144 Nm and 160 PS / 253 Nm (best-in-segment) of peak power and torque, respectively. Both engines come with a familiar 6-speed manual transmission but the NA petrol engine pairs with an IVT (CVT) automatic, while the performance-focused turbo petrol engine can be had with a quick-shifting 7-speed DCT automatic gearbox. Hence, the Korean carmaker ensures that all sorts of requirements of the potential buyers are met. The prices range from Rs 11 lakh to Rs 17.42 lakh, ex-showroom.
| Specs | Hyundai VERNA |
| Engine | 1.5L NA & 1.5L Turbo Petrol |
| Power | 115 PS / 160 PS |
| Torque | 144 Nm / 253 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-MT, CVT & 7-speed DCT |
Hyundai IONIQ 5 at CarBlogIndia’s annual Auto Awards 2024
From ICE, let us move to electric vehicle world with the Hyundai IONIQ 5. I am certain that everyone must have heard about the success that the IONIQ 5 has experienced in India and in international markets across the globe since its inception. In fact, ever since its launch, it has secured some of the most prestigious awards and accolades from critics and fans alike. It is truly the defining product in Hyundai’s quest for the future of electric mobility. The immense success of the IONIQ 5 led Hyundai to be confident in its subsequent products including IONIQ 6 and the upcoming IONIQ 7. Sticking to the IONIQ 5, the electric crossover was chosen as the ‘Electric Car of the Year’ by our jury after detailed deliberations.
In all honesty, the IONIQ 5 had all aspects in its favour. It bears a completely unique appearance in comparison to just about any other EV out there. While most other EVs are derivatives of their corresponding ICE counterparts, the IONIQ 5 is based on a bespoke E-GMP architecture. Hence, it was built from the ground up. The exterior styling constitutes a combination of modern and retro themes. On the inside, one gets to experience the spaciousness of the exclusive electric platform.
The minimalist design along with the latest tech and connectivity amenities take things to the next level. Additionally, the Korean carmaker has taken into consideration sustainability. Most of its interior components are made up of recyclable materials including PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) bottles. For each IONIQ 5, up to 32 plastic bottles are cleaned, crushed and shredded into plastic chips. Those chips are then melted and spun into a thread that makes an inviting, woven upholstery fabric. The seat, headlining and carpet fabric also include bio components extracted from sugar cane and corn. The leather used in the interior is dyed using flaxseed oil instead of oil derived from animal products.
Specs
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 is equipped with a 72.6 kWh battery pack. It powers an electric motor to produce a healthy 217 hp (160 kW) and 350 Nm of peak power and torque. This battery pack offers an enticing range of 631 km (ARAI-rated) on a single charge. Taking care of the charging requirements, the IONIQ 5 is available with a 350 kW DC fast charger which allows 10-80% charging in a mere 18 mins under ideal conditions. Additionally, you can also have a 150 kW DC fast charger which can perform the same job in just 21 minutes. The charging equipment is compatible with both 800 V and 400 V architecture and allows V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) capabilities. That enables the EV to charge external devices as well. It retails for Rs 46.05 lakh, ex-showroom in India.
| Specs | Hyundai IONIQ 5 |
| Battery | 72.5 kWh |
| Architecture | E-GMP |
| Power | 217 hp (160 kW) |
| Torque | 350 Nm |
| Range | 631 (ARAI) |
| 350 DC Fast Charging | 18 mins (10-80%) |
You may also like: Specially-Abled Couple Modifies Hyundai IONIQ 5 To Drive Independently
