The 2018 Ioniq Hybrid Limited is a very cool car.
The beige-and-white color scheme on our tester - colors you'd expect to see on the inside of a refrigerator - is cool. The light, interior plastics are are modern-looking and cool to the touch. And finally, the fuel economy rating of 55 mpg in combined city and highway driving is super cool if you are concerned about spending less money at the pump.
In fact, the Iconic may be the coolest car you've never heard of.
FAST FACTS
Online: In the market for a new vehicle? To access more than 180 of Mark Kennedy’s local Test Drive columns visit www.timesfreepress.com/testdrive.* Model: 2018 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid Limited* Exterior color: Ceramic White* Interior color: Beige* Engine: 1.6-liter, four-cylinder gas; 32kW electric* Horsepower: 139 (combined)* Transmission: six-speed automatic* Fuel economy: 55 mpg city, 54 mpg highway* Local Dealer: Long Hyundai* Price (as tested): $31,560
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Think of it as a less gawky Toyota Prius, although it doesn't have the Toyota's pedigree or long history of durability. (The Ioniq was introduced as a 2017 model and is a corporate cousin of the Kia Niro.) Hybrids are complex cars, so there is some advantage to choosing a model with a 20-year track record like the Prius.
But if you prefer a car with maximum fuel economy and conservative, hatchback styling the Ioniq is a strong contender for your new-car dollars.
Locally, Long Hyundai at 6039 International Drive had nine Ioniq hybrids in digital inventory when we checked late this week.
WHAT IS IT?
Our Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid Limited tester is a five-passenger hatchback with a four-cylinder gasoline engine, augmented with a 32kW electric motor. The hybrid powertrain produces excellent fuel economy, rated by the government at 55 mpg city and 54 mpg highway. In addition to the traditional hybrid, Hyundai also produces a plug-in hybrid version of the Ioniq (starting at $24,950) and a full-electric model (base price $29,500), as well.
WHAT DOES IT COST?
The base price of the Ioniq hybrid is $22,200. Our top-of-the-line Limited trim Ioniq with Unlimited Package ($3000) has an MSRP of $31,560. Locally advertised prices reflect significant discounts are available.
WHAT WE LIKED
Our notes from a week in the Ioniq indicate kudos for the car's cool, textured dash; breathable leather seats; flat-bottomed steering wheel; clear gauge graphics; heated seats and roomy cargo compartment.
WE WERE LESS IMPRESSED WITH
The split rear window which obscures rearward visibility, modest acceleration and a funky wheel design.
DRIVING IMPRESSIONS
The Ioniq, like all gas-electric hybrids, is a quiet automobile. It will inject a level of serenity into your commute that might even lower your blood pressure after a hard day at work. Tune into to Watercolors (the light-jazz station on SiriusXM radio) and the calming effect is complete.
Acceleration is modest, but nobody in the market for this car is going to buy it for street racing. Motor Trend estimates the Ioniq hybrid will launch from zero to 60 mph in about 9.4 seconds.
WORTHWHILE OPTIONS
The pricey but value-packed Ultimate Package ($3,000) bundles automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, smart cruise control, navigation system, 8-inch touch screen display, Infinity premium audio with eight speakers, and wireless smartphone charging.
THE BOTTOM LINE
While hybrid sedans have fallen somewhat out of fashion, they still offer stellar fuel economy and a relaxed driving experience. Combine that with substantial available discounts and the Hyundai Ioniq becomes a compelling bargain.
Contact Mark Kennedy at mkennedy@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6645. Follow him on Twitter @TFPCOLUMNIST. Subscribe to his Facebook updates at www.facebook.com/mkennedycolumnist.