2020 Hyundai Ioniq Electric Review: The Shortstraw
The first-generation Ioniq was introduced back in 2017, and in order to keep up with an ever-increasing lineup of competitors, Hyundai has made a large number of changes to the 2020 model. For the 2020 Hyundai Ioniq Electric, these changes include a larger 38.3 kWh battery, more power, and interior upgrades such as a larger infotainment screen. This compact five-door liftback EV is powered by a 100kW magnetic synchronous motor that pushes out 134 horsepower and 218 lb-ft of torque. But with competitors such as the Nissan Leaf and the mighty Tesla Model 3 also in the running in the US, the Ioniq Electric might just be out of its league in a segment of the market that doesn't stop evolving for a moment. Can 2020's updates keep this electric vehicle in the race?
2020 Ioniq Electric Exterior
Dimensions
| Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width | Curb Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 176.0 in | 106.3 in | 58.1 in | 71.7 in | 61.2 in | 61.6 in | 3,371.0 lbs |
2020 Ioniq Electric Performance
2020 Ioniq Electric Interior
2020 Ioniq Electric Trunk and Cargo Space
Warranty
| Basic | Drivetrain | Corrosion | Roadside Assistance | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 Years / 60,000 Miles | 10 Years / 100,000 Miles | 7 Years / Unlimited Miles | 5 Years / Unlimited Miles | 3 Years / 36,000 Miles |
Verdict: Is the 2020 Hyundai Ioniq Electric hatchback A Good car?
Hyundai has done its best to keep the 2020 Ioniq Electric hatch relevant in a class that is becoming more competitive by the day. The increase in power and range are much welcomed, but at only 170 miles, the Ioniq still lags behind many of its competitors. On the plus side, its equivalent fuel efficiency is impressive; at 145/121/133 MPGe, there are very few competitors that can compete, and this represents great cost savings for owners. Despite an improved charger being offered for 2020, owners will still have to wait 35.5 hours at level 1 charging outlets or six hours on a level 2 unit. As a car, the Ioniq nails the styling part but isn't as fun to drive as the Tesla Model 3. You do, however, get a lot of standard features and good value for money. If you don't need to travel long distances often, then this might just be the car for you, but we can't honestly review the 2020 Hyundai Ioniq Electric without saying that rivals like the Hyundai Kona Electric give you a better EV experience.
What 2020 Hyundai Ioniq Electric Model Should I Buy?
The price of the 2020 Hyundai Ioniq Electric hatchback starts at $33,045 for the SE and comes with all the basics you need in an everyday car, including remote keyless entry with push-button start, an eight-inch touchscreen with a six-speaker sound system, forward collision avoidance - which bodes well for a safety rating if ever tested - driver attention warning, and lane-keeping assist. We would only recommend spending the $5,000 extra for the Limited if you're after premium features such as an auto-dimming rearview mirror, ambient LED in-cabin lighting and leatherette upholstery.