2020 Hyundai Ioniq Hatchback Limited: The Brand’s Refreshed Hatchback Hybrid

Highlight: The Ioniq is available in three variations: a hybrid, a plug-in hybrid and an all-electric vehicle.

Test Vehicle’s MSRP: $ 32,155 (Base Model: $24,155)

Seating Capacity: 5

Standard Safety Features: ABS; airbags; traction control system; a tire pressure monitoring system; vehicle stability management system; an electronic stability control system; traction control; a driver’s blind spot outside mirror; and a hill start assist system

Standard Equipment (Base Model): 15-inch wheels; a 6-speed automatic transmission; a manual operated tilt/telescopic steering wheel; cloth seats; manually operated front seats; folding exterior mirrors; an integrated rear spoiler; and a variety of driving modes

Standard Equipment (Limited): 17-inch wheels; a rearview camera; an electronic blind spot detection system; a lane change assist system; a lane keep assist system; a lane forward assist system; a rear cross traffic collision avoidance assist system; power folding side mirrors with puddle lamp; chrome door handles with door handle approach light; a radar activated cruise control system with a stop-and-go feature; electric parking brakes; power sunroof; a navigation system; a keyless entry system; a keyless ignition starter system; leather seats; rear seat center armrest; an automatic temperature control system; heated front seats; memory operated driver’s seat; auto rearview mirror; a wireless charging pad; a Harman Kardon audio system; Hyundai’s Bluelink connected system; and a tire repair kit  

                                                                                                                             

Other Trim Levels:

SE and SEL

Standard Audio On Test Vehicle: AM/FM/HD with a satellite radio

Bluetooth Connectivity: Yes

USB Connectivity: Yes

Android/Apple CarPlay: Yes

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles

Powertrain Warranty: 10 years or 100,000 miles

Hybrid Warranty: 10 years or 100,000 miles

Standard Engine/Horsepower: 1.6-liter, 4-cylinder/104-hp

Recommended Fuel: Regular

Standard Fuel Mileage: 55-city/54-hwy

What’s New: In an unusual move, after only two years on the market, the Ioniq goes through a mid-cycle refresh. The brand’s Prius fighter receives a new front and rear bumper fascia. Also the instrument cluster and the infotainment cluster has a more contemporary feel and look for the 2020 model year.

Why: Unlike the styling of the polarizing Prius hybrid, the Ioniq’s contemporary design does not resemble a space ship. In fact, the roomy compact hatchback looks quite stylish for a hybrid.

The front-wheel drive Ioniq hybrid, which can easily accommodate five, is available in four trims. The Ioniq is also available as plug-in and an all-electric hatchback.

Hyundai’s only dedicated hybrid rolls into its third model year, with a number of significant changes. Upon examining the exterior, one will notice that the vehicle wears a new front bumper and rear fascia. And inside the cabin, a larger contemporary designed (optional) infotainment screen adorns the vehicle. As one has come to expect in a Hyundai, the new screen is user friendly.

Moreover, just like last year’s model, the hybrid we reviewed was powered by a slightly smaller 4-cylinder engine than the Prius. While the fuel-efficient engine only pumps out a puny 101-horsepower, it seemed more than adequate for us. We must note adjustment to our driving style had to be made, after steeping out of a mainstream sedan that produced a whopping 707-horsepower.  

Furthermore, the economically priced vehicle, which along with its sibling from Kia, the wagon-like Niro, has the best hybrid warranty in the industry.

Overall the Ioniq, which is easy to maneuver, is packed with a number of standard amenities, as the pricing team has revised the content and packaging for the 2020 model year. Depending upon the trim, leather seats, a power sunroof and an electronic blind spot lane changing system is available to heighten the experience, while sparingly sipping fuel.

But: The split view rear window continues to be an annoyance, creating a blind spot for the driver.

Verdict: While consumers taste have shifted toward crossovers, SUV and trucks, Hyundai has designed and produced a fuel-efficient, value packed hatchback that is a competitor to the Toyota Prius. The conventional styling, a lower price point than the Prius, the array of standard amenities and the warranty makes this a best buy for those seeking to stretch out their miles, while cruising around the city in a hybrid.

Competition: Kia Niro and Toyota Prius