Hybrids achieve their impressive fuel economy through advanced drivetrains that pair an electric motor to a conventional gasoline engine. The Ioniq starts with a fuel efficient 1.6L 4-cylinder engine mated to a 43-horsepower electric motor. Combined, they make 139 horsepower which is then sent to the front wheels. While most other hybrids use a continuously variable transmission for maximum efficiency, Hyundai reasoned they could hit their mileage target and deliver a more conventional driving feel by employing a sports-car style dual-clutch "automated" manual.
Hyundai also utilizes the same gearbox in their plug-in Ioniq, which again uses a 1.6L gasoline engine, but supplements it with a more powerful electric motor. Range on the plug-in hybrid will be around 27 miles, after which the gasoline engine kicks in to recharge the batteries.
Lastly, select markets get a fully electric version of the Ioniq. It uses a 118 horsepower electric motor exclusively and features a maximum range of about 124 miles, which should be enough for most commuters.
The standard Ioniq Hybrid is available in three different trim levels: Blue, SEL and Limited. Standard features across the Ioniq Hybrid lineup include a 7-inch color display touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and bluetooth built in, a rearview camera, steering wheel mounted audio and cruise control, automatic projector beam headlights, a 4.2-inch LCD instrument display, dual-zone automatic temperature control, SiriusXM satellite radio and HD radio.
The midlevel SEL adds several safety and convenience features. SEL versions get a Blind Spot Detection system, along with a rear cross-traffic alert system, heated front seats, a power driver's seat, LED daytime running lights and LED tail lights, heated side mirrors with turn signals built in, a leather wrapped steering wheel, a nicer rear armrest with built in cup holders and some additional chrome work around the windows and interior door handles.
The top of the line Limited gets nicer 17-inch alloy wheels, a tilt and slide sunroof, leather seating surfaces, HID headlights, an electronic auto-dimming rearview mirror with a built in garage door opener, LED lights on the interior and automatic windows.
Hybrid Or Electric Drivetrain
Exceptional Mileage
Innovative Use Of Space
Hyundai Reliability
More Fun To Drive Than Other Hybrids
Plug-in Option Available
The Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In is yet another new addition from Hyundai, designed to show off their plug-in Ioniq drivetrain. Paddle shifters are included as standard for plug-in models and Lane Keep Assist is now available on all hybrid trims. Using exotic materials for lightness, an advanced powertrain and an incredibly aerodynamically efficient body, Hyundai claims the Ioniq plug-in Hybrid will get 58 mpg in combined city and highway driving and 27 miles of range without the usage of any gasoline.
The Hyundai Ioniq is aimed straight at the Toyota Prius. For years, Toyota has dominated the hybrid car market, with Honda and Chevrolet only nibbling at the edges. The Ioniq looks to end that domination with their sleek looking Ioniq which is available as a conventional hybrid, a plug-in hybrid and a fully electric vehicle. Offering a lot of car and a lot of technology for relatively little money has been a strategy that Hyundai is betting it will work for the Ioniq as well. Prices start at just over $23,000.