Matt Degen

Matt Degen is a senior editor who has driven and reviewed nearly every vehicle made in the past 15 years, all with the goal of helping you find the best one for your needs. Matt is recognized as one of the nation’s leading automotive experts and has been interviewed by The New York Times, CNN, MSNBC, Automotive News, and countless others. Prior to joining Kelley Blue Book in 2012, he was a writer and editor for over a decade at The Orange County Register newspaper. There he covered the automotive and tech industries, music, and food -- all things Matt is passionate about. He holds degrees in Communications and Culinary Arts. When not evaluating vehicles, Matt is creating videos on his popular YouTube channel, I Want To Cook. 
The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 parked at Kelley Blue Book's Irvine headquarters, seen from a front quarter angle
General

Chasing Vampire Tacos in a Hyundai Ioniq 5

Matt Degen - February 27, 2026

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 is an excellent electric vehicle with ample range that can turn an ordinary outing into a fun adventure. The 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 5 offers up to 318 miles of range — nearly 10x the U.S. daily driving average of 33 miles. In real-world testing, a 60-mile round trip left 150+ miles remaining. Dual-motor AWD produces 320 hp; IONIQ 5 N reaches 641 hp. Four-time KBB Best Buy Award winner.

2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 front-left three-quarter view
General

Hyundai Ioniq 5 Is Our Electric Vehicle Best Buy of 2026

Matt Degen - January 20, 2026

The 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 5 is KBB’s Best Buy Award winner in the EV category for the 4th consecutive year. Starts at $36,600 after a price cut of up to $9,800. Offers 245–318 miles of range, 168–320 hp, DC fast charging 10%–80% in 20 minutes, NACS port compatibility, and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.