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2018 Hyundai Ioniq Electric

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Make
Hyundai
Model
Ioniq Electric
Year
2018
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Expert Rating
Unavailable

Our expert ratings are based on seven comprehensive criteria: quality, safety, comfort, performance, fuel economy, reliability history and value.

You can interpret our ratings in the following way:

: Outstanding vehicle. Only the most exceptional vehicles achieve this rating.

: Very Good vehicle. Very good and close to being the best vehicle in its class.

: Good vehicle. Decent, but not quite the best. Often affordable, but lacking key features found in vehicles of the same class.

: Below average vehicle. Not recommended, and lacking attributes a car buyer would come to expect for the price.

: Poor vehicle. Simply does not deserve to be on the road.

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Select a Trim
2018 Electric 4dr Hatchback
most popular
Price:   -  From $29,500
2018 Limited 4dr Hatchback Price:   -  From $36,000

Overview

With every passing year, the inevitability of automotive electrification becomes more and more certain. No longer just whimsical sci-fi tech, the electric car has donned the draperies of traditional automobiles and is out to woo mainstream audiences. The 2018 Hyundai Ioniq Electric is the latest car to pursue tomorrow's mobility, is hoping to find electrified success with the unassuming styling and wallet-friendly price tag.

What's New for 2018

The Ioniq Electric is now available in just two trims, Electric and Limited.

Hyundai Ioniq Electric

Choosing Your Hyundai Ioniq Electric

While Hyundai also sells a hybrid and plug-in hybrid version of the Ioniq, this article will focus on the electrified model. It should also be noted that as of this writing the Ioniq Electric is only available in California; for those who don't hail from the Golden Coast, the hybrid iterations of the Ioniq must suffice.

The primary selling point of the Ioniq Electric is, well, the electric powertrain. Specifically, the Ioniq uses a 28 kWh lithium-ion battery that runs an 88 kW electric motor, a combination that manages to provide up to 124 miles of driving range. In more familiar power ratings, the Ioniq makes 118 horsepower and 218 lb-ft of torque. The car also uses a single-speed reduction-gear transmission; because of the wide power band of electrified powertrains, a multi-cog gearbox is rendered unnecessary. Overall efficiency is rated at 136 MPGe, which Hyundai claims is the highest rating of any electric car on the market.

Of course, going electric has drawbacks - no one wants to be stranded somewhere waiting for batteries to charge up. To alleviate this possibility, the Ioniq comes standard with level-3 fast-charging ability. In just 23 minutes, the battery can be brought up from fully depleted to an 80% charge when hooked up to the appropriate charger. If speedy re-juicing isn't necessary, the Ioniq can also be plugged into a household outlet, ideal for overnight at-home charging.

A classic electric car trick that the Ioniq employs is regenerative braking - lifting off the accelerator pedal causes the electric motor to spin backwards, which simultaneously slows down the car and recharges the battery. It substantially diminishes the need to tap the brakes every time there's a desire to scrub off a little speed, though stomping the left pedal most definitely remains a necessity, especially in any kind of serious stopping attempt. In the Ioniq, drivers can adjust the regenerative braking force through steering-column control paddles.

Differentiating the Ioniq Electric from the Ioniq Hybrid is the grille - or rather, the sleek bit of gloss black plastic that stands in for a grille, as no fresh-air cooling is necessary for the electric powertrain. There's also Xenon headlights and LED taillights, and 16-inch wheels that are unique to the electrified Ioniq.

While not factored into the base prices mentioned below, the zero-emission nature of the Ioniq Electric does qualify it for a $7,500 federal tax credit.

Hyundai Ioniq Electric

Electric

Simply called Electric, the entry-level version of the Ioniq Electric costs $30,385 (including an $885 destination charge). Standard features include a 4.2-inch LCD display trip computer, a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment unit, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, SiriusXM radio, and Bluetooth. There's also three years of Blue Link support. These services offer an abundance of remote features, such as unlocking or locking the car from a smartphone, receiving on-demand diagnostics, or just having peace of mind with the program's roadside assistance and automatic collision notification.

The are no options or packages available; the only choice is the color, though the palette is limited to just four hues.

Hyundai Ioniq Electric

Limited

At $36,885, the Ioniq Electric Limited suddenly seems to be priced rather steeply considering that the electron-powered car is essentially riding on Elantra bones. However, the Limited brings with it a number of extra features over the base Electric, and - when coupled with that $7,500 income-tax credit - makes the price tag of the upscale Ioniq easier to swallow. The additional goodies include HID headlights, power-folding side mirrors, chrome door handles, a sunroof, leather upholstery, power seats with memory function, auto-dimming mirror, and front-passenger-window express up/down functionality. Buyers will also appreciate the larger eight-inch touchscreen infotainment unit, Infinity Premium Audio sound system, and the wireless device charging pad.

The most notable extras over the Electric, though, are the active safety features it comes with. There's automatic braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-change assist, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist.

Again, there are no options or packages, and the same four colors available for the Electric are once more on tap here.

CarsDirect Tip

It may seem like a lot of cash to lay out on a compact, but in typical Hyundai fashion the Limited really is the best value of the two choices here. With the suite of active safety features, the additional technology, and the heaping of extra creature comforts, the baubles of the Limited will help ensure no one mistakes your Ioniq for an eerily-silent Elantra.

Get your price on a Hyundai Ioniq Electric »

author image
Automotive Editor
Read Less

Expert Review

Expert Rating
Unavailable

Our expert ratings are based on seven comprehensive criteria: quality, safety, comfort, performance, fuel economy, reliability history and value.

You can interpret our ratings in the following way:

: Outstanding vehicle. Only the most exceptional vehicles achieve this rating.

: Very Good vehicle. Very good and close to being the best vehicle in its class.

: Good vehicle. Decent, but not quite the best. Often affordable, but lacking key features found in vehicles of the same class.

: Below average vehicle. Not recommended, and lacking attributes a car buyer would come to expect for the price.

: Poor vehicle. Simply does not deserve to be on the road.

author image
Contributing Writer

The greenest in a trio of fuel efficient powertrains, the 2018 Hyundai Ioniq Electric offers spectacular fuel economy, usable range, a smooth ride, and quiet around-town driving. But it's hampered by a small back seat and a single motor drivetrain that isn't as smooth as much of the competition, and a range realistically limited to commuting.

Best Value

The Ioniq Electric is available in two mono-spec trims. The base model checks in at $30,385, with the Limited coming in at $36,885. Even the standard trim comes with the usual power features as well as 16-inch alloy wheels, LED taillights and daytime running lights, heated outside mirrors, keyless push-button start, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, automatic climate control, heated front seats, a seven-inch touchscreen, and an infotainment system that includes Bluetooth, satellite radio, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, and a rearview camera.

Stepping up to the Limited adds HID adaptive headlights, power-folding side mirrors, a power moonroof, leather-trimmed seats, an eight-inch touchscreen, navigation, a premium audio system, wireless device charging, a power driver seat with memory, Blue Link Guidance, and a suite of advanced safety features not available on the base model that includes blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane keeping assist, lane change assist, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.

The $6,500 premium for the Limited seems a bit steep, even when you factor in the additional safety equipment, until you consider just the $7,500 Federal tax credit brings it in under $30,000.

Here, then, is how we'd build it:

  • Model:2018 Hyundai Ioniq Electric Limited
  • Electric motor: 88 kW
  • Output:118 hp / 218 lb-ft
  • Transmission: Single-speed reduction gear automatic
  • Drivetrain:Front-wheel drive
  • MPG:150 City / 122 Hwy MPGe
  • Options: None
  • Base Price:$36,885 (including an $885 destination fee)
  • Best Value Price:$36,885 (before tax credits)

Performance

Hyundai Ioniq ElectricThe Ioniq Electric delivers a pleasant ride and, compared to class rivals, a fairly sporty driving experience due to a low center of gravity provided by the battery placement in a chassis dedicated to hybrids and electrics. Aggressive driving hardly impacts fuel economy, making freeway driving more enjoyable. The all-electric is also the quietest in the three-vehicle lineup. Lighter in weight than the Kona, it feels quicker and also keeps the Ioniq's acceleration passable. The electric model also avoids the transition issues between regenerative and friction arising during transmission shifts that affect both hybrid models.

Not only is the electric more fun to drive than most competing models, it's also takes the crown as the most energy-efficient vehicle on the market with an EPA-estimated 150 miles per gallon gasoline-equivalent (MPGe) in the city, 122 MPGe on the highway, and 136 combined. Finally, like any electric, it's simply quieter, calmer, and more peaceful to drive than any vehicle with a combustion engine – which is especially evident in around-town driving.

At the same time, power output is only average for the class, Hyundai's single-motor design isn't as smooth as the systems from Toyota, Ford, and Honda, while handling isn't as sharp as either hybrid. Due to the size of the battery pack, the electric version has a simpler torsion beam rear axle, rather than the hybrid's more responsive multi-link rear suspension.

Finally, in colder weather northern climes, range assumptions need to be modified. Despite displaying a 129-mile range, a recent jaunt with temperatures in the low 40s, showed miles-to-empty at our 45-mile destination of 77 – a drain of 52 miles. Heading back in warmer weather, our 39-mile ride only siphoned off 41 miles of range – pretty close. But as temperatures drop into the teens, that 129 range will be affected accordingly, and owners should judiciously avoid pushing the envelope – whereas the Chevy Bolt's 238-mile range offers much more leeway, although at a $6,000 premium over the Ioniq. Then again, you get what you pay for.

Style

Like the hybrid and plug-in models, the Ioniq Electric breaks with many of its contemporaries' must-look-bizarre designs with an understated hatchback shape wrapped around a pleasant, nicely-trimmed interior that prioritizes comfort up front with well-bolstered seats, and ample storage bins and cubbies. It's also practical, with 23.8 cubic feet of cargo volume – beating out the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Ford C-Max Energi. The conventional theme continues with standard dashboard controls that are within easy reach and intuitive to use.

At the same time, ride height – that of a typical compact sedan – doesn't offer the expansive view of a crossover; the sloping roofline means even two tall adults will find rear accommodations tight, while interior room – especially in back – falls short of the Nissan Leaf and Toyota Prius. Ingress and egress into the front seats is occasionally challenging for taller drivers, the electric's push-button transmission isn't nearly as intuitive as the hybrid model's traditional shifter, while the expanse of hard plastics looks especially out of place on the $30,000-plus electric model.

The Best and Worst Things

The Ioniq Electric's mainstream design and spectacular fuel economy make it a solid choice for environmentally-conscious buyers; we only wish there was more room in back and it had more range.

Right For? Wrong For?

Hyundai Ioniq ElectricA smooth ride, crossover utility, excellent controls, and outstanding fuel economy make the Ioniq Electric a great choice for eco-conscious buyers.

Although hardly bland, the more mainstream design may turn off more style-conscious buyers.

The Bottom Line

Despite an ordinary design, small back seat, and an electric range realistically limited to commuting, the 2018 Hyundai Ioniq Electric's outstanding fuel economy, smooth ride, and serene around-town cruising make it a solid choice in the compact electric class.

Read Less

Specs & Features

Highlights
Overall Crash Safety Rating
Not Available
Engine - Horsepower/Torque
118 HP / 218 ft.lbs.
Transmission
1-spd auto
Drive Type
Front-wheel
Fuel Economy - City/Highway/Combined
150 / 122 / 137 Mpge
Passenger Capacity
5
Bumper to Bumper Warranty
60 Months / 60,000 Miles
Mechanical Specs
Engine - Horsepower/Torque
118 HP / 218 ft.lbs.
Drive Type
Front-wheel
key
150 / 122 / 137 Mpge
Brakes
4-wheel Disc
Front Suspension
Strut
Rear Suspension
Semi-independent Torsion Beam Beam
Spare Tire And Wheel
Fuel Tank
Recommended Fuel Type
Electric
Average Cost To Fill Tank
Dimensions & Capabilities
Maximum Cargo Volume
Passenger Volume
96 Cu.ft.
Exterior Length
176.0 "
Exterior Width
71.7 "
Exterior Height
57.1 "
Front Headroom
39.1 "
Rear Headroom
37.4 "
Front Legroom
42.2 "
Rear Legroom
35.7 "
Front Shoulder Room
56.1 "
Rear Shoulder Room
55.0 "
Front Hip Room
Rear Hip Room
Curb Weight
3,164 Lbs.
Wheel Base
106 "
Turning Radius
17.4 '
Exterior Features
Door Count
4 Doors
Wheels
16.0 " Silver W/painted Accents Aluminum
Paint
Clearcoat Monotone
Exterior Mirrors
Dual Power Remote Heated, Convex Spotter Driver
Bumpers
Body-colored
Grille Moldings
Rear Spoiler
Lip
Exhaust
None
Interior Features
Seating
Passenger Capacity
5
Seat Trim
Cloth
Front Seat Type
Bucket
Heated Front Seats
Driver And Front Passenger Heated-cushion, Heated-seatback
Front Driver Seat Direction Controls
6-way
Front Passenger Seat Direction Controls
6-way
Front Armrests
6-way
Rear Armrests
Center
Rear Seats
60-40 Bench
Radio & Infotainment
Radio
Siriusxm Am/fm/hd/satellite, Seek-scan
Speakers
6
Radio Steering Wheel Controls
Apple Car Play
Android Auto
Bluetooth w/ Hands-Free Connectivity
Convenience Features
Steering Wheel Type
Telescopic Tilt
Climate Control
Automatic Air Conditioning
Cruise Control
With Steering Wheel Controls
Sun Roof
Rearview Mirror
Day-night
One Touch Open Window
Driver
Tinted Windows
Light
Vanity Mirrors
Dual Illuminated
Remote Keyless Entry
Keyfob (all Doors)
Power Outlets
2
Safety Features
Overall Crash Safety Rating
Not Yet Available
Overall Front Crash Safety Rating
Not Yet Available
Overall Side Crash Safety Rating
Not Yet Available
Rollover Crash Safety Rating
Not Yet Available
Front Impact Airbags
Driver And Passenger
Driver Side Impact Airbags
Seat Mounted
Knee Airbag
Driver
Passenger Side Impact Airbag
Seat Mounted
Rear Side Airbag
Seatbelt Pretensioners
Front
Anti-Lock Brakes
4-wheel Anti-lock Brakes (abs)
Forward Collision Warning
Blind Spot Sensor
Lane Departure Warning
Autonomous Cruise Control
Pedestrian Detection
Driver Attention Alert
Daytime Running Lights
Auto High Beams
Adaptive Headlights
Parking Sensors
Security Systems
Security System
Panic Alarm
Ignition Disable
Immobilizer
Warranty
Bumper To Bumper Months Miles
60 Months / 60,000 Miles
Major Components Months
120 Months / 100,000 Miles
Included Maintenance Months
Roadside Assistance Months
60 Months / Unlimited Miles
Corrosion Perforation
84 Months / Unlimited Miles
Accessories Months
60 Months / 60,000 Miles

Used 2018 Hyundai Ioniq Electric for Sale

2 vehicles found within 100 miles of your area
Hyundai
Electric
Color: Black
Price

$11,995

Mileage

91,068 mi

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Unique Auto Center (58 mi)

Phone: (909) 873-1111
Hyundai
Electric
Color: White
Price

$15,990

Mileage

60,809 mi

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Stadium Auto California (33 mi)

Phone: (888) 287-0448

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