news

Hyundai Ioniq revealed, Australian debut set for third quarter 2016 – UPDATE

UPDATE: Hyundai has now completed the teaser campaign for its new Ioniq car, revealing the hybrid model's face today.



The 2016 Hyundai Ioniq has now been fully revealed, with a front-end view of the new hybrid hatch joining earlier shots of its cabin and rear.

The Ioniq, which will be offered in hybrid, plug-in hybrid EV and full-electric forms, is shaped for an optimal aerodynamic profile, giving it the same wedge-like proportions made familiar by the long-running Toyota Prius line.

Hyundai’s ultra-green hatch is built on a new architecture created specifically for hybrid and electric vehicle applications, made from a combination of Advanced High Strength Steel and aluminium for a lightweight but strong construction.

The Korean carmaker says it has developed the Ioniq with dynamic driving and handling as a guiding principle, setting “the Ioniq apart from other hybrid vehicles”.

To that end, the Ioniq hybrid packs a low- and forward-set battery set to deliver responsive and stable cornering, and a dual lower-arm multi-link suspension arrangement is featured at the rear.

Toyota, of course, has also promised that buyers of its new Prius will likewise enjoy “an engaging drive”.

In hybrid form - the only variant to be revealed so far - the Ioniq will be powered by a 77kW/147Nm 1.6-litre ‘Kappa GDi’ petrol engine, matched to a 32kW/256Nm electric motor. By comparison, the new Prius pairs a 72kW/142Nm 1.8-litre petrol engine with a 53kW electric motor.

Power is sent to the front wheels through a hybrid-specific version of Hyundai’s six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and energy for the electric motor is drawn from a lithium-ion polymer battery design.

The Ioniq hybrid claims a thermal efficiency of 40 percent, matching that of the new 2016 Prius hybrid.

Fuel consumption, so far confirmed for the Korean market only, is listed at 22.4km/L (4.4L/100km). Australian figures will likely differ, however.

As a point of comparison, the current Prius lists an Australian fuel consumption figure of 3.9L/100km on the combined cycle. The new 2016 model is expected to cut that further to 3.2L/100km.

Hyundai says the Ioniq can travel in full-electric mode at speeds up to 120km/h.

Features in the Ioniq will include a large centre display with Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity included, along with a Qi-standard wireless charging pad for mobile phones.

Behind the steering wheel is a 1280x720px 7.0-inch multi-information screen, displaying speed, eco driving status, battery charge levels and more.

Safety features include seven airbags, lane departure warning and lane-keep assist, along with autonomous emergency braking.

Storage in the Ioniq is listed at 750 litres with the rear seats folded flat and, although specific numbers have not been offered, Hyundai claims great headroom and "comprehensive" shoulder and leg room in both rows.

Australian launch

An Australian debut for the Ioniq is locked in for the third quarter of 2016.

The Ioniq’s Australian debut will focus on the petrol-electric hybrid model shown here, although the carmaker’s local arm has also confirmed its interest in the plug-in hybrid EV model.

MORE:Hyundai Showroom
MORE:Hyundai News
MORE:Hyundai Reviews
MORE:Search Used Hyundai Cars for Sale
MORE:Hyundai Showroom
MORE:Hyundai News
MORE:Hyundai Reviews
MORE:Search Used Hyundai Cars for Sale
Chat with us!







Chat with Agent