More than a decade ago hybrid drivetrains were an automotive novelty since then they have become a staple in all market segments from economy cars to trucks. Their novelty became a necessity with rising gasoline prices and tax breaks, end the elimination of HOV, and toll road exemptions. Now, these vehicles have gone beyond the “look at me, I beat the commuter crowd system” status symbol, as almost every manufacturer has a hybrid version.
Electric Vehicles once an urban staple a century ago, are following suit. Today with more technology, range and initial out of pocket costs, they too are no longer just cult vehicles out of the financial grasp of the everyday driver, they are becoming common in driveways across the USA.
Hyundai has brought to market the efficient and fun to drive Ioniq, challenging Toyota’s Prius at all levels from the economy and ride to build quality and cost. Ioniq comes in three powertrains; hybrid, plug-in hybrid and full electric, all on the same hatchback platform that drivers find familiar.
What makes Ioniq different from the other hybrids on the market, beyond its economical operation? It is designed and built with less reliance on oil-based materials. With the use of recycled or ecologically-sensitive interior materials, door covers are made of plastic combined with powdered wood and volcanic stone producing a softer, more natural feel. Headliner and carpet have been developed using sustainable sugar cane and paints with renewable ingredients extracted from soybean oil are used to achieve lustrous metallic colors on key components.
All the while advanced technology is as much a part of the Ioniq driving experience through enhanced state-of-the-art connectivity features like Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto® and Blue Link®, as well as wireless charging for smartphones. Ioniq also offers the very latest in advanced safety, including Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, for high levels of both active and passive vehicle safety. Even the HVAC runs efficiently to use as little energy to heat and cool the vehicles.
Not only can you choose the color, but also your choice of drivetrain. High mileage hybrid, high range electric for around town or a bit of both for trips further afield.
Ioniq Hybrid
Prices run from $22,200 for the base blue to $27,500 for the top-line Limited. Hyundai’s proprietary hybrid specific drivetrain has been engineered for this vehicle and gets 55+ MPG. Hybrid system architecture with a Kapa 1.6 GDI 4-cylinder engine, 32KW Permanent Magnetic Electic motor, and six-speed hybrid dual clutch transmission. 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. The hybrid rolls on either 15 or 17-inch Eco-Spoke alloy wheels.
Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid (Available 4th quarter2017)
While pricing has not been announced, this is the combination of plug-in electric for urban use and true hybrid for long distance driving, this is labeled for 27 miles in full EV mode with gasoline mpg to be announced. In addition to general exterior design details, the Plug-in Hybrid also integrates a charging portal into the left front fender for the lithium-ion polymer battery. Specially-designed 16-inch alloy wheels further differentiate the Plug-in Hybrid model.
Ioniq Electric
Pricing starts at $29,500 for the base and $32,500 for the limited, depending on the state, there may be tax incentives that lower that cost. Powered by an 88 kw permanent magnetic electric motor, a 28 kWh Lithium Ion Polymer battery and a gear drive. And is labeled as 135 MPGe with real world expectations of going 124 miles on a full charge. The Electric model also features HID Xenon Headlamps with Dynamic Bending Light (DBL) and LED tail lamps with a unique pattern and identity for the rear view, as well as unique 16-inch eco-spoke alloy wheels.
Ioniq Unlimited+
An electric vehicle subscription program for the Los Angeles California residents called “Ioniq Unlimited+” offers a carefree means to drive with a fixed payment that includes unlimited mileage, electric charging reimbursement, scheduled maintenance and vehicle wear items.
Hyundai Assurance
Hyundai offers an industry-exclusive Lifetime Hybrid Battery Warranty with Hybrid Blue Drive Systems. All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by the Hyundai Assurance program, which includes the 5-year/60,000-mile fully transferable new vehicle limited warranty, Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty and five years of complimentary Roadside Assistance. Hyundai Blue Link Connected Care provides owners of Hyundai models equipped with the Blue Link telematics system with proactive safety and car care services complimentary for one year with enrollment. These services include Automatic Collision Notification, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Vehicle Diagnostic Alert, Monthly Vehicle Health Report and in-vehicle service scheduling.
For more details on Hyundai Assurance, please visit www.HyundaiAssurance.com
Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through more than 830 dealerships nationwide.
To learn how to pronounce Hyundai, please visit Hyundai’s blog: www.hyundailikesunday.com
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