We were on an ice lake for almost 30 minutes before realizing we could look back from the 2024 Hyundai Ionic 5 N prototype. Rainy-weather reviewers are annoyed that every Ionic 5 has no rear windscreen wiper. It’s crucial. Sources at Hyundai told us that the Ionic 5 lineup would finally get a wiper for the back window, but Hyundai wouldn’t say anything on the record. It needs to be clarified if this will be a requirement or an option, but the important thing is that it will be available. People who live in places with a lot of sun may need help understanding why this is such a big deal. A missing wiper is not a big deal for many cars with different-shaped back ends. But something about the Ionic 5’s hatch causes a lot of snow, rain, dust, and dirt to get on the back window. After a few trips, it usually gets dirty enough that you have to stop at a gas station to squeeze the window so you can see out the back again. A wiper will likely add some drag to the Ionic 5, lowering its overall range. However, the pros outweigh the cons. The rear wiper may or may not be added to the Ionic 5 at the same time as the Ionic 5 N, and it needs to be clarified if this will be a stand-alone update or part of a more extensive product refresh for the 2024 model year. Our sources told us this was true, but Hyundai wouldn’t confirm it. Since the 5 N will be on display at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, albeit in the same prototype form as seen here, we may find out more about the rear wiper at that time.
