Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid: Hybrid with no compromises!

Today we present a very special test drive, I’m driving the new Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid for a review! I’ll tell you right away, this car surprised us.

Usually, when you approach a hybrid car, you always expect to have to deal with some compromises. Sometimes it’s about design, in others of driving pleasure, there is always something missing, something that does not leave you totally satisfied. And then there is Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid. But let’s better see why this car has convinced us.

While I’m driving around the hills near Florence I immediately feel the differences with the other hybrid cars I drove. First of all, engine and transmission. It is a 1.6 aspirated petrol engine delivering 105hp coupled to a 44hp electric motor connected to a 6-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The latter makes the difference and totally changes the driving experience, making the Ioniq feel like a car with only a thermal engine. You can feel the presence of the electric motor only in a good way.

The Hyundai Ioniq electric engine is noticeable in the city, when it is possible to advance in full electric mode but also outside, in sport mode, when you want to have fun. The electric engine “helps” the thermal one in the delivery of torque and power, making it more responsive at low revs and the double clutch transmission guarantees you precise and fast gear changes. You would almost want to have the paddles behind the wheel, too bad they are not available!

Among the curves of the Florentine hills this estate is more than good. The factors for the success involved are different: the multi-link suspensions at the rear and the presence of a lithium polymer battery that significantly lowers the centre of mass of the car. In terms of fuel consumption, reaching 22 km/l will not be very difficult and being careful you could even reach 25 or more. Finally, the Hyundai Ioniq is still able to travel in full electric mode up to 120km/h.

As I approach my goal, it is right to also spend two words on the exterior. From the outside it does not look like a hybrid car, the design is pleasant and captivating. The soft and elegant lines of the body hide an aerodynamic drag coefficient among the lowest in the category. There are also many small details in the bodywork that embellish the look of Hyundai Ioniq making it futuristic. Just think abiut the 17’’ two color alloy wheels made in order to minimize the friction with the air.

At the front, you can see the LED daytime running lights that recall the design dictates of Hyundai and the bi-xenon headlights. At the rear, the split rear window almost seems to be the only real reference to hybrid or electric cars. The spoiler, in addition to having aerodynamic functions, helps to give a sporty touch to this 5-door sedan. Opening the trunk, the space is really wide, 456 liters.

Here I am at my destination. With the silence of the electric propulsion I cross the gate of the “Ulivi di Castello”, a small hotel located in the hills above Florence, a few minutes from the city center. What better context for this Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid if not this location surrounded by nature and silence? Our friend Sergio looks at us curious while we position Hyundai Ioniq for our photos.

Before leaving the car, however, let’s talk about the interior. The general feeling is of good quality and excellent assembly. The plastics in some areas are hard to the touch but everything seems in line with the cars of the same price range. Very beautiful blue finishes that refer to the hybrid engine. I would have appreciated the interior lighting made by LEDs, more suited to the technological soul of this car. The steering wheel is not too large and handles well and is very ergonomic.

The dashboard, totally digital, allows you to view useful information also for fuel economy and, in sport mode, displays a nice sports tachometer. In the middle of the dashboard we find the infotainment screen.

Hyundai Ioniq is equipped with all the latest technology including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Infinity audio system offers excellent sound and under the central display there is even a wireless charging system for mobile phones.

To complete this rich endowment there are also the various ADAS systems present. From adaptive cruise control, to automatic emergency braking to lane maintenance. Technology at the top! While we are enjoying the last rays of sunshine of this summer day looking for some other interesting shots, we are really satisfied with Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid.

Beautiful design, excellent fuel consumption, without sacrificing even the pleasure of driving. Hyundai Ioniq is also able to satisfy different “tastes”. On the market there are in fact two other declinations of Hyundai Ioniq: Plug-In Hybrid and Full Electric. Hyundai Ioniq is the first car in the world able to offer these three engines. We warned you that it was a special car!