This innovative car is the first to be produced with three separate engine set-ups: separate electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid. There’s one to suit every driver, and the car itself makes no compromises, with an athletic design and drive, spacious interior and suite of hi-tech features.

DESIGN AND INTERIOR

The Hyundai IONIQ is undoubtedly a good-looking car. It has a sophisticated exterior with subtle contours, a wide grille and sharp LED headlights that give it sporty credentials. Air flaps in the front grille and a rear spoiler enhance the aerodynamics for a swift drive, and the svelte roofline ensures it has a smart exterior.

SAFETY

True to Hyundai’s commitment to safety, the IONIQ is well-equipped with safety features. Electronic Stability Control and Hill-start Assist help you to maintain a steady drive, while Lane Departure Warning helps to prevent a collision. These features are all standard on every IONIQ, as are parking sensors, while Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are optional upgrades.

There are three trim levels, SE, Premium and Premium SE, so you can choose the IONIQ that has the comfort features you need. Air conditioning and Bluetooth connectivity are standard, while the Premium adds a touchscreen and the Premium SE has heated front seats.

Whichever trim level you choose, you’re promised a clutter-free interior with a clean dashboard layout and an easy-to-read instrument cluster. The sturdy central console is home to the gear knob and two storage points: one for your hot coffee, the other for your change and sunglasses.

TECHNOLOGY

Every IONIQ has a five-inch touchscreen for easy control of the entertainment features and Bluetooth connectivity for taking calls on the go. You can upgrade to the Premium to get an eight-inch touchscreen featuring satellite navigation, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto that allows you to access many mobile apps while driving. It also comes with a charging point to keep your phone topped up.

PERFORMANCE AND POWERTRAINS

The IONIQs standout feature is its choice of three powertrains: Hybrid, Electric and Hybrid Plug-In – all of which are exempt from annual road tax because the CO2 emissions are below 100g/km.

Hybrid: This version has a 1.6-litre GDI engine and an electric motor. It offers quick acceleration and a quiet drive.​

Electric: Powered by an 88kW electric motor that’s topped up by a 28kW Lithium-Ion Polymer battery, this model will travel up to 174 miles without needing to recharge. When you do need to recharge the battery, simply recharge at home or at an EV point.​

Plug-In: Both a 1.6-litre petrol engine and a 45kW electric motor power the Plug-In. For 31 miles, it can drive the electric motor along – perfect for the daily commute, while the engine will keep you going on longer journeys.

Lightweight and cleverly engineered to deliver strong power, the IONIQ can reach 0-60mph in around 11 seconds.