52 MPG combined. That’s the major selling point for the 2018 Hyundai Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid, and it’s the number that attracts a specific buyer: someone seeking maximum fuel efficiency without the range anxiety of a full electric vehicle or the high price of some competitors. People don’t buy this car for its sporty handling or eye-catching aesthetics; it’s the sensible choice for those who want low running costs and a reduced environmental footprint on their daily commute.

City and highway performance

The 2018 Ioniq Plug-in’s fuel economy is very consistent, with EPA estimates of 53 MPG in the city and 52 MPG on the highway. This consistency comes from the integration of the 1.6L four-cylinder engine and the electric motor. The Ioniq blends electric power in city driving with gasoline assistance at higher speeds on the highway. Drivers can expect to rely more on electric-only mode in urban settings, which helps the city MPG to be slightly higher than the highway MPG. Its automatic transmission (AM6) is tuned for efficiency, which helps the blend between gasoline and electric power.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Hyundai Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid is $850. This is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Individual fuel costs will vary depending on local fuel prices, driving habits, and the percentage of miles driven on electric power versus gasoline. This $850 figure provides a benchmark for potential buyers to compare the Ioniq Plug-in to other vehicles.

Real-world expectations

The EPA figures are a baseline, but real-world fuel economy often varies. Owners have reported fluctuations depending on climate (colder temperatures can reduce battery performance) and driving style (aggressive acceleration burns more fuel). However, most find the Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid gets close to its window-sticker MPG, especially when maximizing the use of the electric driving mode. Someone with a short commute who regularly plugs in the car could see even lower fuel costs than the EPA estimate. Factors such as tire pressure and regular servicing can affect the IONIQ MPG across all years produced.

How it compares

The Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid competes with other PHEVs like the Toyota Prius Prime, which achieves 54 MPG combined when running on gasoline (133 MPGe when factoring in electric-only driving). It also competes with more conventional hybrids like the standard Toyota Prius (56 MPG combined) and the Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid (59 MPG combined). The Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid offered a slightly higher electric-only range and a combined MPG of 42 when running on gasoline. The Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid provides usable electric range and impressive gasoline fuel economy. Prospective buyers are encouraged to view all Hyundai fuel economy data to determine the best model for them.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use regenerative braking by anticipating stops and easing off the accelerator early. This system captures energy that would otherwise be lost during braking and recharges the battery, increasing your electric range and overall fuel economy. Learn about the Ioniq’s driving modes (Eco, Normal, Sport) and choose the right mode for your driving. Eco mode prioritizes fuel efficiency by limiting throttle response and adjusting climate control settings.

Pre-condition the cabin while the car is plugged in. This means heating or cooling the interior before you unplug and start driving. By doing this, you reduce the energy needed from the battery pack once you’re on the road, saving electric range, especially during extreme weather.

Check your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine (or electric motor) to work harder, which lowers fuel economy. See the sticker on your driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure and keep it at that level.

Reduce aerodynamic drag by removing unneeded items from the roof rack and avoiding high speeds on the highway. The faster you drive, the more energy it takes to overcome air resistance, which can cause a drop in fuel economy, especially when the gasoline engine is running.