Hyundai's Ioniq 5 is the electric vehicle in full

Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the Cruisin’ News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."

Sacramento, California -- Hyundai touts its Ionic 5 compact crossover sport-utility vehicle as the electric machine that can do just about everything.

And, well, they might actually have something there.

In my week with the tested 2022 Ioniq 5 Limited AWD, the vehicle kept checking so many boxes that I came around to thinking that the hefty $55,920 price on the sticker's bottom line was a bargain.

My overall impression: The Ioniq 5 is another step in the evolution of the electric vehicle.  Virtually everything is better than Step One.

For starters, it looks good.  Nicely rounded and more substantial looking than many EVs.  Stout even.  And the striking "Lucid Blue" paint job was easy on the eyes to boot.

Inside, top-notch technology is everywhere, and within easy reach.

The blizzard of safety technology included a driver attention/warning system, front/rear parking sensors, a parking collision-avoidance system and, essentially, surround-vehicle sensors to prevent even the slightest potential scratch from becoming reality.

Extra-special comfort/convenience features included a panoramic fixed-glass sunroof with a power sunshade, a hands-free smart liftgate and a primo head-up display.

Sounds like a luxury SUV from Mercedes-Benz or Lexus, right?  Oh, but here's your bonus: a fuel mileage equivalent rating of 110 in the city and 87 on the highway.  Stops for $7-a-gallon gasoline not necessary.

So, how does it drive?  Amazingly well.  Smooth, fun and responsive.

With the dual electric motor system grinding out the equivalent of 320 horsepower, accelerations and making moves in dicey traffic were not a problem.  Handling-wise, the tested Ioniq 5 felt more solid and stable than a typical compact crossover -- definitely a plus on both freeways and traffic-laden surface streets.

Did I mention the 300-plus miles driving range and its quick charge ability (10 to 80 percent in 18 minutes properly equipped)?  Those are eye-popping numbers, especially for EV skeptics who worry about the time it takes to find recharging stations ... and how much time it takes to charge up the batteries.

So, as we evolve toward that ever-nearer future of the electric vehicle in California, please note that Hyundai seems to be ahead of the game.  In its Ioniq 5, the automaker has produced a vehicle capable of making believers out of those who remain skeptical about that all-electric future.