[9][6] The hybrid variant launched in its home market in February 2016, followed by the electric model in July 2016.

It is related to the Kia Niro crossover utility vehicle and Hyundai Elantra, with which it shares a wheelbase and suspension components.

[9] The Ioniq uses aluminium in the hood and tailgate, reducing weight by 27 lb (12 kg) compared with conventional steel, with no measurable disadvantages in noise or vibration.

[16] With a higher usage of lightweight components and a more compact build, the cargo screen cover is about 25% lighter than the types used in other Hyundai models.

The hybrid version competes with, and surpasses in fuel economy, the previous mileage leader in the Toyota Prius.

Trims that include the alloy rims produce approximately 5 MPG lower overall fuel economy on the highway.

Many parked Ioniq vehicles appear in the early scenes of the 2018 film Johnny English Strikes Again, starring Rowan Atkinson.

It features a 28 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery that delivers an EPA-rated range of 124 mi (200 km).

[5][24] The car was refreshed for the 2020 model year with a new interior, larger battery, and increased range and traction motor output.

][27] It is sold by Hyundai in other countries as well, which as of December 2018[update] included Canada,[28] Norway,[29] Netherlands, Portugal[citation needed] and Switzerland.

[26] Under the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) four cycle test, the 2017 Ioniq Electric combined fuel economy rating is 136 mpg‑e (24.8 kWh/100 mi; 15.4 kWh/100 km).

[12][13] Similarly the Ioniq Electric was praised by the Green NCAP for high energy efficiency, even under high-load highway test.

Range from the relatively modest battery was increased by the vehicle's efficiency, which in turn was aided by aerodynamic tweaks and low-rolling resistance tires.

[45] In ECO mode, the dual clutch transmission optimizes gear selection for efficiency, upshifting earlier to achieve better fuel economy.