Hyundai developed the Ioniq with a platform fit to accommodate hybrid and electric drivetrains so it could please more customers and provide them with a vehicle that could help them transition from ICE cars to EVs.
In 2016, Hyundai introduced the Ioniq nameplate in its inventory, and the car was available as a hybrid, a plug-in hybrid, and an all-electric model. Three years later, in 2019, the automaker unveiled the improved version of this hatchback, trying to keep the car’s sales high. Despite the global pandemic that started in 2020, the Korean automaker managed to deliver over 300,000 units before January 2021. Furthermore, the refreshed version offered customers not just an update on the car’s look but also on the drivetrain upgrades.
In 2019, Hyundai refreshed the Ioniq, and the entire lineup received a revised front fascia that featured new headlights, which were available with LED bulbs. In addition, the broad grille was redesigned, and the electric version sported a silver panel where the badge took center stage. Lower on the bumper, the automaker integrated a lower air intake, and on the side scoops, it installed blade-like LED daytime running lights.
The car’s profile kept its original hatchback shape with a sloped-down roof line that continued with the raked forward tailgate. Unlike other automakers, who chose flush door handles, Hyundai installed grab-styled ones, lowering overall production costs. Along with the facelift, the Ioniq also received new alloy wheels ranging between 15- and 17-inch in size. Finally, at the back, the automaker added LED taillights, and the rear apron featured black moldings.
Inside the 2020 Ioniq, customers found a new dashboard fitted with a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen placed atop the center stack in a free-floating position that featured Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Inside the instrument cluster, the automaker added a seven-inch display fitted as standard in the electric version and as an option depending on the trim level for the rest of the range. An Infinity sound system was also offered to enhance the audio experience in the vehicle. At the back, the split-folding bench seat could accommodate up to three people for short trips or two for long journeys. Still, legroom and headroom were nothing to write home about. Along with the facelifted version, Hyundai also improved the safety systems, and all Ioniq versions came fitted with collision warning and pedestrian detection. In addition, a radar-based adaptive cruise control was on the table as well.
For the drivetrain, the most significant upgrade was for the electric version, which was fitted with a 38.3 kWh battery pack instead of the formerly used 28 kWh one. This upgrade led to an increased range of up to 186 miles (300 km.). Starting with the 2020 model year, the Ioniq also received a new base model powered by a 105 PS (104 hp) internal combustion engine.
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