2018 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid review

1. Smart looks 

The 2018 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid has a smart and distinctive appearance. Its five-door sloping roof silhouette is designed to be aerodynamic, and this extends to the front grille with its active shutters that move for improved airflow and increased efficiency. An integrated rear spoiler also helps the Ioniq Hybrid to sip fuel slowly. Available in a restrained but classy palette of colors, the Scarlet Red Pearl metallic paint finish is new for 2018.  

2. Interior technology 

The Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid has high levels of onboard tech to keep everyone entertained. The entry Blue trim features dual automatic climate control, a seven-inch color touchscreen, Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto^™ integration, Bluetooth^® connectivity with wireless audio streaming, and HD Radio^®. Choose SEL trim and you’ll get a seven-inch digital driver’s display, and a USB port. The Limited trim adds Hyundai Blue Link^® connected services that include features such as available remote access to unlock,

start or stop your Ioniq Hybrid from your smartphone. The available Ultimate package features an eight-inch touchscreen navigation system, Qi wireless smartphone charging technology, and an Infinity^® premium audio system. 

3. Enhanced available packages 

The available packages for the 2018 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid are upgraded over the 2017 model to give you an enhanced specification. SEL trim has an available Tech package that adds driver-assist features such as automatic emergency braking, other driver-assist features, and new for 2018, a lane keep assist function. The Ultimate package for Limited trim adds rear parking sensors, driver’s seat memory functions, rear seat air vents, and a retractable cargo area cover. 

4. Excellent gas mileage 

If you're watching your finances, the 2018 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid may appeal. All trims have a four-cylinder 1.6L engine with 104 hp, combined with a 43-hp electric motor, and a small lithium-ion battery for a 139-hp system output with torque of 195 lb-ft. A six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is standard, and for 2018, new steering wheel paddle shifters let you feel more involved with the drive. An EPA-estimated 55 mpg combined for SEL and Limited trims is good, but the entry-level Blue trim is even better with an EPA-estimated 58 mpg combined.

5. Innovative materials 

If your care for the environment goes above getting good gas mileage, the 2018 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid will appeal to your environmental sensibilities. Inside, the door panels are made from plastic combined with powdered wood and volcanic stone, but look no different from the all-plastic or oil-based materials usually used for car interiors. The headliner and carpet feature raw materials extracted from sugar cane, and the interior metallic paint finishes use ingredients extracted from soybean oil.