We knew a Hyundai Ioniq plug-in hybrid version was coming, and now it's official. The Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid can go 29 miles on its battery alone and joins Hyundai's 2018 Ioniq electrified car line that already includes regular hybrid and battery electric compact sedans.
Related: 2017 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid Vs. 2017 Toyota Prius: Who's the King of Fuel Economy?
In addition to the EPA-rated 29 miles of electric-only range, the Ioniq plug-in has a combined mileage rating of 52 mpg running as a hybrid. Together, that adds up to about 650 miles of range on a full charge and a full tank. The combined rating compares with 55 mpg and 58 mpg for versions of the regular Ioniq Hybrid. You can find the full EPA ratings for the Ioniq hybrid and electric models here.
The Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid's ratings compare with such rival plug-in sedans as the Toyota Prius Prime (25 miles of range, 54 mpg combined), Chevrolet Volt (53 miles, 42 mpg) and Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid (48 miles, 42 mpg). You can compare the full EPA ratings here.
The 2018 Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid will be offered in a base trim level starting at $25,835 including destination and a Limited model starting at $29,185. That is higher than the 2018 conventional hybrid model, which starts at $23,085 with destination and has a top Limited model at $28,385. But the plug-in model's battery size qualifies it for a $4,543 federal tax credit, making it the cheaper choice.
The plug-in powertrain includes a 104-horsepower, Atkinson-cycle 1.6-liter four; a 60-hp electric motor; and an 8.9-kilowatt-hour polymer lithium-ion battery under the rear seat. The electric motor can operate up to 75 mph.
Like the Ioniq hybrid model, and unlike most hybrids, the plug-in has a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, which Hyundai says is to give the car "a more dynamic and engaging driving experience" than rivals. Also like the hybrid version, the plug-in has a multilink rear suspension rather than the torsion beam used in the EV model. The plug-in, however, gets its own wheel design and adds LED low-beam headlights.
Other changes to the Ioniq line for 2018 include, for the hybrid model, paddle shifters on the higher trim levels and a new red paint (go crazy!). Lane-keeping assist also is now available as part of the optional full suite of safety and driver aid technology. And the EV model will have two trim levels: Electric and Limited. Also, all 2018 Ioniq models will come with three years of free Hyundai Blue Link safety, remote and guidance services.
's Editorial department is your source for automotive news and reviews. In line with 's long-standing ethics policy, editors and reviewers don't accept gifts or free trips from automakers. The Editorial department is independent of 's advertising, sales and sponsored content departments.