2017 Hyundai Ioniq

2017 Hyundai Ioniq
 Electrifying!

By Charles Donaldson

“Going Green” is on everyone’s lips these days.  Choosing to live environmentally conscious, is well…responsible. Sound decisions can help protect our environment for generations to come. This eco decision-making follows some adults into their car purchasing habits as they purchase cars for the future:  hybrids or all-electric vehicles.


For 2017, Hyundai introduces the Ioniq:  hybrid, plug-in hybrid or an all-electric vehicle. Hyundai claims “dibs” as the first manufacturer to add a battery-electric model that does not have an engine. The 2017 Ioniq Hybrid made its debut in Blue, SEL, and Limited trim levels, while the Electric and Plug-in Hybrid versions offer Base and Limited trims. My test vehicle was the all-electric version so this review will focus on this particular model.


The 2017 Hyundai Ioniq is a small hatchback that is all about the green. With at least a 12-hour 110-volt charge you will get a range of approximately 110 to 125 miles. It can be an easy drive for routine commuting or trips in town.


 We took a trip up to Calistoga which was about 88 miles from door step to hotel step and were fortunate enough to get an extra charge on the way to Raymond Vineyards. They have great wines, but don’t drink and drive (just saying)! An issue occurred, however, when the hotel was not able to allow us to plug-in and recharge overnight it forced us the next day to go in search of a plug-in station. No, I did not plan this trip out very well, and it does highlight the need for proper planning when driving an all-electric vehicle.


In designing the exterior appearance of Ioniq, Hyundai designers concentrated on its future-motivated character and the appeal to make a Hybrid look like a hybrid that isn’t, you know…something Fun and Sporty. The fluid exterior lines help emphasize its aerodynamic body lines and surface volumes. The sporty hatchback-inspired profile is motivated by aerodynamics and creates that energetic feel. These attributes come together to boost aerodynamics further, which, when combined with various other smart efficiency solutions, produce an industry-leading 0.24 coefficient of drag.


The 2017 Hyundai Ioniq will seat five, but only two adults comfortably fit in the back. The interior is clean, comfortable and is standard with cloth upholstery and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. Leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a power driver's seat with lumbar support and memory settings are also available. There is an array of storage pockets in the front and Hyundai claims that the Ioniq delivers more trunk space than its competitors. The Ioniq's front seats are adjustable, and there is plenty of space for adults of average height. However, those with dancer’s or longer legs may be cramped in the back seats. Additionally, the seating fabric is pedestrian, and the seats themselves could use more thigh support.


Cool Features:

·         Mobile Device Wireless Charging pocket

·         Standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which allows you to access popular smartphone features including: maps, text messages and music

·         You can get a tax credit because of its environmental impact

·         According to the E.P.A. the Electric vehicle is the most efficient car you can buy in the United States

The 2017 Hyundai Ioniq comes to you packed with safety features including the following: Vehicle Stability Management System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control System,4-wheel, 4-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution and Brake Assist, Hillstart Assist Control, driver and front passenger advanced airbags, driver and front passenger seat-mounted side-impact airbags, roof-mounted side-curtain airbags with rollover sensors, driver's knee airbag, rearview camera, driver’s blind spot mirror. Optional safety features are available as well.


In Summary – The 2017 Hyundai Ioniq brings the environmentally-friendly and ecologically-responsible together with the sport and style of a handsome hatchback. In mapping out your trips, you will find that the Ioniq will take you further than to the mall.  With a range of approximately 125 miles, the Ioniq would be a great commuter vehicle.   I would also recommend having a 220-volt outlet installed for faster charging times. So, if you are searching for an eco-enjoyable and “to the nines” dressed vehicle, then the Ioniq should be on your list. It will pleasantly surprise you!

Specifications

2017 Hyundai Ioniq Electric

Base price:                  $32,500 as driven: $36,885 (including destination & optional
                                    features)

Engine:                         88 kW Electric Motor

Horsepower:                 118 Horsepower Equivalent

Torque:                         215 lb.-ft.

Transmission:               Single-speed Reduction Gear

Drive:                             Front-Wheel Drive

Seating:                         5-passenger

Cargo space:                 23 cubic feet

Curb weight:                3,164 pounds  

EPA mileage:                City 150/Hwy 122/Comb 136 MPGe

Wheel Base:                106.3 inches

Warranty:                     10 years/100,000-miles powertrain limited

Also consider:              Chevrolet Bolt EV, Nissan LEAF, Toyota Prius, Volkswagen e-Golf