The 2017 Hyundai Ioniq Electric achieves 136 combined MPGe to appeal to practical, hyper-efficient commuters. This vehicle prioritizes minimizing daily driving costs and maximizing convenience, and its EPA numbers reflect this.

City and highway performance

The Ioniq Electric demonstrates the efficiency advantages of electric vehicles (EVs), especially in city driving. Its 150 MPGe city rating shows how regenerative braking constantly recovers energy during stop-and-go traffic. The 122 MPGe highway rating, while lower, still saves a substantial amount of money compared to even the most efficient gasoline-powered cars. The relatively small difference between city and highway figures demonstrates the efficient nature of electric propulsion.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the 2017 Hyundai Ioniq Electric will cost $550 per year to fuel, based on driving 15,000 miles per year and national average electricity prices. Many EV owners find this estimate high because they charge overnight during off-peak hours or use free charging at work or public locations. This cost also doesn’t include the reduced maintenance costs of electric vehicles, such as fewer oil changes and less brake wear.

Real-world expectations

The EPA’s 136 MPGe is a helpful benchmark, but real-world efficiency varies based on driving style, weather, and terrain. Aggressive acceleration and high speeds reduce range, as does using the heater in cold weather. The Ioniq Electric appeals to drivers who prioritize efficiency and adjust their driving habits. These drivers understand that smooth acceleration, gentle braking, and smart climate control use maximize their vehicle’s range. The EPA figure assumes a certain percentage split between city and highway driving, so a user with mostly highway driving may see different results.

How it compares

The 2017 Ioniq Electric offered good efficiency and affordability compared to other EVs of its time. The Nissan LEAF, a direct competitor, achieved around 112 MPGe combined in its base trim, making the Ioniq Electric more efficient. The Chevrolet Bolt offered greater range but at a higher price. While Tesla’s Model 3 offered better performance and features, its higher cost made it inaccessible to many budget-conscious EV buyers. Someone shopping for a used 2017 Ioniq Electric valued efficiency above all else and wasn’t as concerned with range.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Ioniq Electric’s regenerative braking system. Anticipate stops and coast to recover energy and extend your range. Choose the regenerative braking level using the steering wheel paddles to suit your driving style.

Precondition the cabin while plugged in, heating or cooling the interior using external power minimizes battery drain once you start driving. This is especially effective in extreme temperatures.

Monitor your driving habits. The Ioniq Electric offers real-time feedback on energy consumption. Watch the power gauge and stay within the “Eco” zone. Avoiding hard acceleration and maintaining a steady speed improves efficiency.

Optimize tire pressure. Inflate your tires to the manufacturer’s specifications. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce range. Check tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes.

Minimize aerodynamic drag. Remove unnecessary items from the roof rack, if equipped, and avoid high speeds when possible. Higher speeds increase air resistance, which consumes more energy, but this is less important in city driving.

For more information, see all Hyundai fuel economy data, or drill down to IONIQ MPG across all years.