Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid and Pure Electric

The Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid and Pure Electric models are available now. The Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In Electric is on the way.

Hyundai's Ioniq, which debuted in 2017, is the 1st model line in the company's history to be sold in three different forms: a hybrid, plug-in hybrid and battery electric. All versions share similar sporty hatchback styling, making the Ioniq Electric look very much like a conventional car. Badges and the sealed-off grille are the only clues to which car is which. Says Hyundai: "Developed for high energy efficiency without compromising driving performance, every Ioniq powertrain represents a unique and uncompromising solution towards a cleaner means of mobility. The Ioniq Hybrid and Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid both feature a new Kappa 1.6L direct-injected Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with an unsurpassed thermal efficiency of 40 percent, delivering an estimated 104 horsepower and an estimated 109 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine has been specifically tailored to the hybrid application and is combined with a quick-shifting six-speed double-clutch transmission – differentiating Ioniq from its key competitors with a more dynamic and engaging driving experience. The high-efficiency electric motor can operate at speeds up to 75 MPH and delivers instantaneous torque at low speeds, with available power-assist at higher vehicle speeds.

The Ioniq Hybrid’s electric motor delivers an estimated 32 kW (43 horsepower) with an estimated maximum torque of 125 lb.-ft., powered by a lithium-ion polymer battery with 1.56 kWh capacity. The battery is efficiently positioned under the rear passenger seats. In combination with the 1.6-liter direct-injected engine, Ioniq Hybrid offers a total system output of 139 horsepower while providing low emissions, outstanding efficiency and range. The Ioniq Hybrid Blue model has an EPA-estimated 58 MPG combined rating, the highest rating of any non-plug-in vehicle sold in the U.S. market."

All Ioniqs are constructed with Eco-focused materials to create a clean and sustainable interior ambience. The interior door covers are made of plastic combined with powdered wood and volcanic stone, providing a softer more natural feel. Raw materials extracted from sugar cane are used in constructing the headliner and carpet. Paint with renewable ingredients extracted from soybean oil is used for lustrous metallic colors on key components.

HYUNDAI PURE ELECTRIC:

The EPA has officially classified the Ioniq Electric as the most efficient electric vehicle on the market, with a rating of 25 kWh used per 100 miles driven. The lower the kWh number, the better. Converted to an mpg-like number, it's around 136 miles per gallon equivilent. With a fully charged battery, you can drive the Ioniq 124 miles on a single charge: further than most rival EVs. The Chevrolet Bolt is one major exception, with its 238-mile range. Pure-electric Ioniq's lithium-ion battery pack is mounted beneath the rear seats, which frees up space for cargo and passengers, while keeping its weight low to the ground. The EV's 88 kW Electric Motor has a Horsepower equivalent of 118 hp and 215 lb. of torque per foot. When you add in the fact that Ioniq is one of the more affordable EVs in the market, it's easy to see the Ioniq Electric is a smart choice for consumers looking for an affordible car with decent range.

The Ioniq Electric is available in 2 trims: Base, which comes decently equipped, and Limited, which adds lots of options. Concerning these two options, Edmunds reviewers say: "If you can live without the latest high-tech driving aids, then the Electric trim should suit you well. Standard features include 16-inch wheels, automatic headlights, LED daytime running lights and taillights, a rearview camera, heated side mirrors, keyless ignition and entry, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated six-way manually adjustable front seats and a 60/40-split folding rear seatback. You also get a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, Hyundai's Blue Link telematics system, and an audio system with satellite radio and HD radio, and USB and auxiliary input jacks. An SAE combo DC fast charger is also included and can operate at up to 100 kilowatts. The Limited trim comes with everything above but swaps in LED headlights and adds blind-spot detection with rear cross-traffic alert, power-folding side mirrors, leather upholstery, a power driver seat with memory settings, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink, and rear air vents."

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard in all Ioniq models. Wireless smartphone charging is optional, and Hyundai's Blue Link system permits you access to some car functions through a mobile app. Buyers of the Limited model can add the Limited Ultimate Package, which bundles together a sunroof, automatic emergency braking, traffic-adapting cruise control with stop-start, lane departure warning, xenon headlights with dynamic bending (swiveling), interior ambient lighting, wireless device charging, a larger 8-inch color touchscreen with navigation, and an eight-speaker Infinity audio system.

Offering 23.8 cubic feet of cargo storage with all seats up, the Ioniq pure-electric is one of the better models in the EV class to haul cargo. The cargo floor is relatively low compared to other EVs, and the 60/40-split folding rear seats make a flat load floor.

The Ioniq Pure-Electric recharges in 4 hours and 25 minutes with a Level 2 (240V) charger.

Hyundai is offering a new subscription-based Ioniq Unlimited program. Think of it as a lease, but there's no negotiating, no down payment and no mileage limit. Customers pay a fixed monthly fee for their Ioniq Electric over a 24- or 36-month term, which also covers electric charging costs, scheduled maintenance and registration. The only thing you'll be responsible for is your vehicle insurance.

MSRP for the Hyundai Electric (Base trim) is around: $29,500. It is only sold in California and is eligible for HOV stickers, a $2,500 California State Rebate and a $7,500 Federal Tax Credit.

HYUNDAI IONIQ HYBRID:

Says Hyundai: "The front of the Ioniq Hybrid is characterized by the Bi-Xenon HID headlights surrounded by C-shaped LED positioning lamps. Hyundai’s signature hexagonal grille and vertical C-shaped LED daytime running lights further convey purity of design. Contrasting colors at the base of the bumper fascia add individual character and can be paired with two unique interior environments. The color choices for Ioniq models include Black Noir Pearl, Symphony Air Silver, Electric Blue Metallic, Ceramic White and Summit Gray. The Ioniq Hybrid features specially-designed two-tone contrasting 15-inch eco-spoke or 17-inch alloy wheels."

The Ioniq Hybrid’s electric motor delivers an estimated 32 kW (43 horsepower) with an estimated maximum torque of 125 lb.-ft., powered by a lithium-ion polymer battery with 1.56 kWh capacity. The battery is efficiently positioned under the rear passenger seats. In combination with the 1.6-liter direct-injected engine, Ioniq Hybrid offers a total system output of 139 horsepower while providing low emissions, outstanding efficiency and range. The Ioniq Hybrid Blue model has an EPA-estimated 58 MPG combined rating, the highest rating of any non-plug-in vehicle sold in the U.S. market.

MSRP for the Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid Blue (base trim) is around: $22,200.