The 2018 Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid has been added to Hyundai's lineup of eco-focused vehicles in the U.S. market.
Like the Ioniq Hybrid and Ioniq Electric models, the Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid is sleek and aerodynamic. The vehicle's design is a melding of form and function — with an appealing silhouette that translates to smooth airflow and an industry-leading drag coefficient of 0.24.
Exterior design details include a hexagonal grille, vertical C-shaped LED daytime running lights, low-beam LED headlamps and 16-inch alloy wheels.
In terms of performance, the 2018 Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid is equipped with a 1.6-liter direct-injected four-cylinder engine that delivers 104 horsepower and 109 pound-feet of torque. The engine is mated to a six-speed EcoShift dual-clutch transmission that has been tailored for hybrid driving.
The powertrain also includes a 60-horsepower electric motor that can run up to 75 miles per hour (mph). It is powered by an 8.9 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery, which can be charged up to 80 percent in just 23 minutes when using a Level-3 DC 100-kW fast charger.
The 2019 Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid is able to deliver an all-electric range of 29 miles. It attains 52 miles per gallon (MPG) in hybrid mode and 119 MPG-equivalent (MPGe) in EV mode.
Despite having additional components to the powertrain, the vehicle is able to maintain a light weight but at the same time increase its efficiency. There is also efficient placement of the battery system, which is placed underneath the rear seats, to ensure uncompromised cabin and cargo space.
As for the interior, Hyundai further enhances the Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid's futuristic design with a simple and uncluttered cabin. The controls have an intuitive layout and features like climate control have been optimized so that it does not use too much energy.
Though the Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid is an efficient vehicle, it does not scrimp on comfort features and technologies. The vehicle comes standard with a 7-inch TFT information cluster. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Blue Link connectivity and wireless charging. Safety features include Smart Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist, Blind Spot Detection and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.
The 2018 Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid has a starting price of $24,950. There is also a Limited variant being offered for $28,300. Meanwhile, the 2018 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid is priced at $22,000 while the 2018 Hyundai Ioniq Electric will cost about $29,500.
