2020 Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid Review

Hyundai lifted the veil from its Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid at the LA Auto Show with a new look and features for 2020. But the lack of improvements to its powertrain is glaring in the race to produce affordable clean cars. The Ioniq brings back its 1.6-liter engine and 45-kW electric motor powered by an unchanged 8.9-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, offering a total output of 156 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. The system provides up to 29 miles of EV-only driving, identical to the version that first debuted in 2017.

Where the Ioniq Plug-In did change is inside the cabin. The new model adds available features such as stop-and-go functionality to its adaptive cruise control, plus regenerative brake control paddles and an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Higher trims tack on LED headlights, ambient lighting, power-folding mirrors, a wireless phone charger, a Harman Kardon premium audio system, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen — none of which were available on previous models. New safety equipment includes front parking sensors, automated steering assist, and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with pedestrian detection.

The Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid goes toe to toe with an eclectic group of vehicles that are both new and aging, tiny and enormous. The biggest success story is the Chevrolet Volt and its impressive 50 miles of EV-only driving, though GM's decision to discontinue the Volt earlier this year should tell you plenty about the uncertain future facing this segment. Sedans include the Honda Clarity and Ford Fusion, while hatchbacks include the Mini Countryman S E plug-in and Kia Niro plug-in.

You can get plug-ins with more range (the Honda offers 47 miles of battery-only driving) or better driving dynamics (the Countryman S E All4 is zippy for a PHEV). But in terms of features, the refreshed Ioniq offers a lot of bang for your buck.