Hyundai’s Ioniq lineup is growing, with the addition of plug-in hybrid to the family that already includes electric and hybrid models.
Although it competes with Toyota’s Prius line, Ioniq is unique in that it offers the three distinct powertrains on the same platform. The plug-in hybrid uses the combination of a 104-hp 1.6-litre Atkinson cycle 4-cylinder engine and a 45-kW permanent magnet synchronous motor (which grants electric driving at speeds up to 120 km/h) fed by an 8.9 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery.
It has an all-electric range of 47 km and overall range of about 1,050 km, and economy rated at 4.5 L/100 km in hybrid mode and the equivalent of 2.0 L/100 km in EV mode, partly thanks to a 6-speed dual clutch transmission. The driver can also choose to ignore the “Eco” style of driving (short shifting and optimal gear selection depending on loads) in favour of a more “Sport” mode, which holds on to lower gears longer and uses power from both the engine and the motor.
Located under the rear seats, the battery is not only lighter than others’ non-polymer lithium-ion batteries (by about 20%) but it also doesn’t have the rigid restrictions of cell-type batteries, meaning it can be adapted to fit the interior contours of the car, and it’s less prone to memory sensitivity, meaning it will charge and discharge more efficiently.
The aluminum-intensive suspension not only returns agile ride handling and quality ride, but it is also some 10 kg lighter (about 6 kg at the front and 4 at the rear). The car rides on low-rolling-resistance Michelin tires mounted on 16-inch wheels.
Exterior design details include Hyundai’s large hexagonal grille (with integrated 3-stage air flap) flanked by vertical c-shaped LED daytime running lights and LED low beams. The charge portal is in the driver’s side front fender. Colour choices include Black Noir Pearl, Symphony Air Silver, Electric Blue Metallic, Ceramic White and Summit Grey.