Restyled Hyundai Ioniq arrives with more standard equipment

THE HYUNDAI IONIQ IS a significant entrant in the EV class, offering pure EV, Hybrid or Plug-in Hybrid in a neat fastback design.

The 2020 model arrives with refreshed styling, upgraded standard equipment, and a new battery and motor combination for IONIQ Electric that delivers enhanced performance and an extended 311km all-electric range.

Styling updates are subtle (are the windmills a hint that there’s a wind-powered model in the system?)

Styling revisions for 2020 IONIQ include redesigned front and rear lighting, front grilles, and new alloy wheels.

There’s also a new dashboard boasting premium soft-touch finishes, ambient lighting in Premium and Electric versions, and a new, tablet-style multimedia unit.

More soft touch materials and a new multimedia unit

The larger 10.25-inch satellite navigation multimedia system headlines the equipment upgrades, and incorporates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity.

Hyundai’s extensive SmartSense safety suite continues in the new IONIQ, now with the standard inclusion of High Beam Assist and an upgraded Driver Attention Warning system featuring Leading Vehicle Departure Alert.

The new model also benefits from a refreshed local chassis tune designed to deliver a supple, refined ride and a consistent drive experience across the three powertrain variants.

Hyundai’s first-ever dedicated eco vehicle continues to offer customers the unique choice of three eco-friendly electrified powertrains – Electric, Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid – in a compact five-door fastback package.

Three different powertrains to choose from

The range-opening IONIQ Hybrid provides an accessible taste of electric motoring, with its petrol/electric hybrid system helping it achieve an exceptional 3.4L/100km fuel (Hybrid Elite; ADR 81/02 combined cycle).

The IONIQ Plug-in Hybrid continues to offer the ability for electric-only trips up to 63 kilometres (ADR 81/02 and NEDC standard) from its overnight fast-charge-capable 8.9kWh li-ion polymer battery.

Combining an electric vehicle (EV) experience with the benefit of a range-extending hybrid petrol powertrain, the IONIQ Plug-In Hybrid is Australia’s most fuel efficient vehicle.

A larger 38.3kWh battery gives the IONIQ Electric a pure-electric range of 311km, an increase of 33 percent compared with the outgoing 2019 IONIQ Electric (204km).

With its increased range, efficiency, a more powerful 100kW synchronous motor, and 100kW DC fast-charging capability, the IONIQ Electric is an appealing pure electric alternative to a conventional-engine vehicle.

Adequate rear seats space (but we suspect the front seats are all the way forward in this shot)

“New 2020 IONIQ introduces refined styling, additional equipment and an all-electric model with a 33 percent greater range, to offer customers an even more compelling eco vehicle,” said Hyundai Motor Company Australia Chief Executive Officer, Mr JW Lee.

“Hyundai continues to demonstrate its eco vehicle leadership with the 2020 IONIQ: the choice of a user-friendly hybrid, plug-in hybrid and pure electric powertrain in an eye-catching sleek fastback body is unique to the market and highly appealing for customers.”

… and few compromises in the rear luggage compartment either

Eco powertrain overview

Every IONIQ variant features a high-voltage lithium-ion polymer battery-powered electric motor. IONIQ Electric variants offer a pure electric vehicle experience, and IONIQ Hybrid and Plug-in variants utilise Atkinson cycle petrol engines to provide additional power.

 

Comparison Hybrid Plug-in Hybrid Electric
Powertrain
Petrol engine 77 kW / 147 Nm 77 kW / 147 Nm
Electric motor 32 kW / 170 Nm 44.5 kW / 170Nm ● 100 kW / 295 Nm
Total system output 104 kW 104 kW 100 kW
Battery & recharging
Battery capacity 1.56 kWh Li-ion Polymer 8.9 kWh Li-ion Polymer 38.3 kWh Li-ion Polymer
Charging via regenerative braking
Plug-in standard charging (AC) ● (up to 3.3 kW) ● (up to 7.2 kW)
Plug-in fast
charging (DC)
Not available ● (up to 100 kW)
Comparison Hybrid Plug-in Hybrid Electric
Efficiency & range
Combined l/100km 3.4-3.9 l/100km 1.1 l/100km
Combined CO2 79-92 g/km 26 g/km Zero emissions
Can be driven on electric power only No
Electric range 63 km

(ADR 81/02 & NEDC)

373 km

(ADR 81/02 & NEDC)
311 km

(WLTP – real-world)

Summary Vehicle driven using petrol engine power primarily, electric motor provides additional power and assistance. Vehicle driven using electric motor primarily, up to 63km (after a full charge).

Once battery is depleted, vehicle will continue to drive using petrol engine, with electric motor providing additional power and assistance.

Vehicle driven using electric motor at all times (no petrol engine).

Different “grille” treatments depending on model

Once we have tested and assessed the new Hyundai Ioniq, seniordriveraus will bring you a comprehensive review, including everything the over-50 driver needs to know.