Hyundai Ioniq Hatchback (2016 - 2022) Premium Hybrid 1.6 141PS DCT auto 5d Owner Review

The Ioniq is very economical, and as good a motorway cruiser as it is a town car. Comfortable too.

Things I like:

* Amazing fuel efficiency -- the ICE cuts in and out seamlessly;

* The DCT auto gear box is smooth and trouble free, in both petrol and EV mode;

* The Ioniq is a very good car to drive round town, generally 60-70mpg urban;

* Good infotainment and sound - a clear rear view camera helps general ease of use;

* Good over long distance - >200 miles = 60-70mpg. Comfortable too, and relatively quiet.

* There is very good comfort for four, providing rear occupants aren't too tall (sloping roof line)

* Very refined when it cuts into EV mode.

* Fixed price maintenance from Hyundai - good service from Holdcroft Hyundai, Macclesfield.

A few (relatively minor) negative points:

* The drivetrain is Jekyll and Hyde - quiet in EV, but the Atkinson cycle engine is noisy in low gear.

* There is only ECO or SPORT mode, no 'normal' mode, and acceleration is sluggish in the former.

* You have to be very light-footed to keep the car into EV mode - nor can you mandate it.

* The car is very low - getting older friends and relatives in has resulted in some bashed heads.

* The 440 litre boot is not quite as big as the measurements suggest, due to the coupe shape.

* Manoeuvring in reverse is compromised by the split rear windscreen - no front sensors either.

None of the gripes above have put me off the car at all, and I always enjoy driving it.