DRIVEN: Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid, thinking out of the box

DRIVEN: Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid, thinking out of the box

The Malaysian car market is fairly predictable, but every once in a blue moon, someone will spring a surprise. And as surprises go, the introduction of the Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid late last year (yes, we’re in 2017!) was a huge one. It’s not just the availability of the Korean green car here either – the timing, the fact that it’s locally assembled, the pricing; everything was scarcely believable to pundits and competitor brands alike.

It has been awhile since a regular, non-plug-in hybrid car was launched in Malaysia. Ever since the tax-free window of opportunity for CBU hybrids (and electric vehicles) ended in 2013, the two Japanese companies that profited the most from the battery rush have stopped promoting the genre. Understandably so, as without government incentives, prices ballooned to the usual high levels that we pay for imported cars.

Hybrid cars made a recent comeback, but the proponents this time are premium brands pushing plug-in hybrids. The small batch locally assembled PHEVs may be great value compared to pure petrol/diesel variants within the range – thanks to tax breaks – but they are ultimately luxury cars that are out of reach for most. Enter the Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid.

DRIVEN: Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid, thinking out of the box

The Ioniq is Hyundai’s first global green car, and besides this conventional hybrid version, it was also designed to accommodate plug-in hybrid and pure electric systems from the start. That’s rather unique in the green car world. Toyota’s Prius is synonymous with hybrids, and there’s a plug-in version of it, but no full EV. Nissan’s Leaf is the world’s best selling EV, but you can’t have it any other way.

It’s not future-proofing on Hyundai’s part either – all three forms of propulsion are ready to roll. This three-in-one at one go move is both aggressive and impressive, and it allows customers to choose the level of electrification they’re ready to embrace. The regular hybrid – the first step of the ladder – is expected to be the strongest seller, and this is the sole option for Malaysia.

The Ioniq Hybrid went on sale in the UK in Q4 2016, and will only debut in the US this year, which means that we’re pretty quick off the mark here. Not bad for a CBU import, but it’s not – our Ioniq is locally assembled in Kulim to be eligible for CKD Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV) incentives. That makes Malaysia the first and only location outside of Ulsan in South Korea to assemble the Ioniq.

DRIVEN: Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid, thinking out of the box

The Ioniq Hybrid is powered by a 1.6 litre Kappa GDI engine, the direct injection Atkinson cycle unit producing 105 PS at 5,700 rpm and 147 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. Hyundai claims that this internal combustion engine has the world’s highest thermal efficiency at 40%. Interestingly, Toyota also claims the same 40% figure for the current fourth-generation Prius.

The engine is mated to a permanent magnet synchronous electric motor with 44 PS (32 kW) and 170 Nm, a 1.56 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery and a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, which sends drive to the front wheels. The combined system output from the engine and electric motor is 141 PS and 265 Nm.

High efficiency was a main goal, so that most of what is made is used. Besides the ICE’s minimal losses – helped by the Atkinson cycle’s reduced intake pumping loss, EGR system and split cooling for the head and block – Hyundai claims that the electric motor achieves over 95% efficiency and the DCT gearbox delivers class-leading transmission efficiency of 95.7%.

DRIVEN: Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid, thinking out of the box

Hyundai’s choice of lithium-ion polymer batteries for the Ioniq is natural – it’s the best tech in town. Compared to the Ni-MH items in Toyota HSD and older Honda IMA hybrids, the more advanced LiPo batteries boast lower memory sensitivity, better charge/discharge efficiency and better max output. Before you ask, the Ioniq’s batteries are supplied by LG Chem, and not Samsung SDI of Galaxy Note 7 flame. I meant fame.

Located below the rear seats, the battery pack is shielded by a four-stage protection system. In any case, the Ioniq is not only a Euro NCAP five-star rated car, the safety body has included it in its ‘Best in Class Cars of 2016’ list.

The battery pack’s “extra low” position contributes to the Ioniq’s low centre of gravity. Not only is its CoG of 535 mm lower than the Elantra (562) and Veloster coupe’s (545) figures, it’s slightly better than that of the Mk7 Volkswagen Golf GTI at 538 mm, Hyundai points out. Other contributing factors that suck the car to the road are lightweight panels on the upper body and downforce that’s among the lowest in the C-segment.

To be efficient, a car has to be aerodynamic, and Hyundai has put in much effort to keep the Cd figure down. At Cd 0.24, the Ioniq matches the latest Prius in aero terms while managing to look a lot better.

Air resistance is minimised by a streamlined basic shape, air curtains that reduce vortex around the wheels (also helped by plastic inserts on the alloy rim spokes, which is a much more elegant solution than plastic wheel caps), an integrated rear spoiler and active air flaps on the grille, which open only when necessary. A smooth underbody with directed airflow courtesy of the front lip and wheel deflectors also aid the cause.

Hyundai has used aluminium whenever possible. Besides the aluminium hood and liftgate, which save a combined 12.6 kg, the lightweight material features in the front back beam, front lower arm and knuckles, rear carriers and even the front brake calipers. The company also used a high proportion of ultra high strength steel (53.5%) and expanded the use of structural adhesives to reinforce welded seams.

The tech is sound, but so is what’s under the new Prius. One of the key points that sets the Ioniq apart, for me, is how it looks. The basic “hybrid profile”, as seen on the previous-generation Prius and Honda Insight, is employed here for its aero qualities, but the shape has been fleshed out to look substantial and sporty. Good width, wheels pushed out to the edges and nice proportions – much like how a five-door Honda CR-Z would look, I imagine.

The measuring tape backs it up. Compared to the Elantra MD – one of the most dynamic-looking sedans in its class – the bootless Ioniq is 80 mm shorter (4,470 mm), but 45 mm wider (1,820 mm). The hatchback’s wheelbase is par for the C-segment course at 2,700 mm, which matches the Elantra, Corolla Altis and Civic FC. No high-profile eco tyres here – the Ioniq rolls on 17-inch alloys and 225/45 Michelin Primacy 3 rubber, and the arches are nicely filled as a result.

It was Hyundai’s intention to make the Ioniq look as normal as possible, and I think they’ve succeeded. The aero bits are well-integrated, exemplified by those trick wheel spoke fillers. Blue accent strips on the lower edge of the front and rear bumpers hint at the Ioniq’s eco status. Only if it doesn’t clash with the primary body colour, though – red and blue cars get grey strips.

To these eyes, while the Ioniq’s front end is bold (large grille, distinctive LED daytime running lights), the car’s best angle is from the rear three quarter, and I caught myself stealing glances at this K-pop star’s high-waisted, pert behind way too often. Not plain nor overdesigned – the Ioniq looks very good for an eco car.

The sense of normalcy continues inside, where the Ioniq sports a conventionally stacked dashboard with an instrument binnacle in the driver’s line of sight. No nonsense black on black is the theme here, livened by blue highlights ringing the air con vents and push start button. The locally-fitted leather seats have matching blue stitching, so does the piping of the floor mats.

No central controller here, so it’s a straightforward centre stack. The touchscreen is a factory head unit in this first batch of cars, but we understand that an Android system is under development. The latter will allow one to use popular navigation apps such as Waze on the car’s own screen, as seen in previous Hyundai-Sime Darby efforts.

DRIVEN: Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid, thinking out of the box

I’m not sure if many would use it, but I like the ‘Driver Only’ AC fan button, which caters to my weird habit of using ‘just enough’ air con when driving solo. There’s a Qi wireless smartphone charging panel as well.

While the dash layout may not look sci-fi in the way the Prius does, there’s a high tech feel in here courtesy of the digital instrument panel. Proper speedometer aside (hybrids normally use a digital speed readout), it’s standard hybrid fare, with Power/Eco/Charge and battery level bars at each end. To the main dial’s right is a screen that shows the Ioniq’s range of active safety systems at work. An assortment of buttons on the steering wheel and below the driver’s AC vent control these functions. More on this later.

You’ve been waiting to hear how it drives, and well, the Ioniq drives a like a well-sorted normal car. Don’t be too quick with the ‘meh’ response though, because this is after all a dedicated hybrid model, and those things usually offer little in the way of driver appeal. The Prius, for instance, has marvelled with its well-integrated and effective tech over the generations, but only the deranged would drive it spiritedly – such is the Toyota’s focus.

DRIVEN: Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid, thinking out of the box

Push the start button and the car comes alive in EV mode without engine noise. You inch away with a gentle right foot, but the engine fires up at the smallest prod, which might surprise those familiar with Toyota HSD. This is despite the battery bar showing adequate levels of charge. Also unlike the Prius, there’s no EV button to force the Ioniq to run on battery power alone. Hyundai claims that the Ioniq can glide in EV mode up to 120 km/h, but from experience, this will be hard to achieve.

So, is this more like a Honda IMA-style ‘assist’ hybrid rather than Toyota’s ‘full’ hybrid? No, because while Honda’s engine is permanently on and the e-motor assists whenever possible, the Ioniq’s ICE goes to sleep when conditions permit, which you’ll know when the EV ECO light in the meter panel comes on. The Hyundai is capable of running purely on electric power, but on its own terms. Remember, the point was to make it as ‘normal’ as possible.

So you stop fretting, drive it like you would a normal car and leave the power juggling to the hybrid system. You will notice the seamless entry and exit the Kappa makes, which is more like the Prius than regular cars with shuddering auto start-stop. After awhile, you’ll forget that it’s a hybrid, such is the cohesiveness of the system.

It’s easy to do so, because with a dual-clutch automatic, the Ioniq feels more dynamic and ‘connected’ than any other hybrid with the exception of the unicorn Honda CR-Z manual. Unlike everyone else in the CVT camp, the Ioniq driver gets to enjoy rev and sensation that’s in sync with his right foot input. Feels pretty liberating for me, who like most of you, have been conditioned by the Japanese to believe that there’s only one type of automatic gearbox for a hybrid.

It’s a good DCT too, this in-house effort. This is my first time sampling it, and the six-speeder is very smooth and invisible in urban driving, which is not a given for dry dual-clutch units. Shifts are smooth overlaps instead of the snappy changes made popular by Volkswagen’s DSG – lending a conventional auto feel to things, which is suitable for this application.

The seamless urban progress could be because there’s reduced interaction between the DCT and the ICE at low speeds, where the electric motor normally does its job. This makes the transmission’s job easier, which should also boost reliability as standing starts, low rpm work and partial clutch situations in traffic are high on friction and stress for DCTs.

DRIVEN: Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid, thinking out of the box

On the same note, Hyundai tells us that its DCT was designed to have various serviceable parts – if one part surrenders, it can be changed independently of the gearbox. By the way, the Ioniq comes with a five-year/300,000 km warranty. The hybrid battery has an eight-year unlimited mileage warranty, and it costs less than RM10k should you need to replace it after the warranty period.

Back on the road, you step on it and realise that there’s no strong electric torque wave to push you along, which caught this hybrid driver by surprise. The Ioniq accelerates in a more natural and progressive nature than some hybrids, which again ties in with its ‘normal car’ ethos. Ditto the amount of engine braking. The Japanese might argue that it’s a less efficient way to arrive at the speed you desire, but it sure feels better.

The slightly soft delivery led us to try out the Sport mode, which perked things up considerably. Clearly not an afterthought, the racier mode sharpens up the throttle and response, while adding more resistance to the steering. The speedo morphs into a red-tinged rev counter, with digital speed readout in the middle. Never mind the latter though, because it’s a difference one can tell blindfolded.

DRIVEN: Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid, thinking out of the box

We started by saying that the Ioniq drives like a well-sorted non-hybrid car. Done with how ‘unhybrid’ it is, let’s zoom in on the ‘well-sorted’ part. The fact that the half-day drive event included some twisty backroads plus a slalom and high speed lane change exercise on an airstrip were clues that this is no ordinary hybrid, but one that won’t feel like a fish out of water when hustled.

True enough, the Ioniq is game for being driven enthusiastically. It surprised with a low rate of body roll and impressive grip on the road (it rained in parts), with steering that’s quick and direct enough for winding roads. No funny feeling from the energy-harvesting brakes, although pedal response isn’t the most progressive and lacks some initial bite.

Best of all, the suspension delivered a good blend of control and comfort, despite the rather large wheels. That’s something that has often tripped up Korean cars that our region gets, but the Ioniq is well-damped and feels Euro-tuned. There was one particular mid-corner dip in the road that I thought would have troubled the Hyundai, but no, it didn’t lose balance or trajectory. It was only later that I realised a multi-link rear suspension was specified over the expected torsion beam, but independent or not, tuning is crucial.

DRIVEN: Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid, thinking out of the box

The slalom and emergency lane change exercise firmly sealed our on-road observations. The Ioniq’s low centre of gravity delivers real world benefits – its inherent stability meant that ESC wasn’t needed even in the hard, almost violent switchbacks we attempted in the enclosed area. Miles better to drive than an Elantra and not too far from the best of the Continentals, I’d say. Never mind the dynamic comparison with hybrid cars, the Ioniq is a good drive, period.

It does the mundane pretty well too. Rolling refinement is good, and the Ioniq’s well-grounded nature comes to the fore in high speed cruising as well – with three onboard, we held a constant 150 km/h without realising it. I like the driving position too; the seat goes down very low for a non-sports car. The many buttons and menus might take some learning, but once familiar, should pose no ergonomic issues. The rudimentary foot-operated parking brake is rather jarring in a high-tech package, though.

Some notes from the back seat. Rear headroom wasn’t a problem for this 175 cm passenger and the seat base length was just nice, which means that those who are taller might have to try the rear quarters for size. The Ioniq’s long wheelbase might lead some to expect generous legroom – while adequate, it’s not as roomy down there compared to sedans such as the Honda City and Civic (think Euro C-hatch). The dual-zone air con remains cold when the engine is off, and there are rear vents.

Last but not least is the Ioniq’s long list of safety features. Top level crashworthiness aside, the RM100k standard spec car comes with seven airbags (dual front, side, curtain and driver’s knee), ABS, brake assist, hill-start assist and Vehicle Stability Management, which is good.

But our top spec HEV Plus tester grabs headlines by adding on blind spot detection, autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control for just RM111k. It’s unprecedented at this price point. All the functions were sampled and work as advertised.

One big question that a half day session shared between three drivers couldn’t answer is fuel consumption. HSDM is probably not highlighting the official figure – which is 29.4 km/l in the European cycle – to avoid high expectations and the inevitable disappointment (or worse, anger) when the claimed FC isn’t achievable in the real world.

As a guide, the US Environmental Protection Agency released fuel economy figures for the Ioniq last month, and the Hyundai’s 54 mpg highway, 55 mpg city and 55 mpg combined figures beat the Prius’ 50/54/52 score, so good FC is somewhat assured. It might not drive like a typical hybrid, but the Ioniq sure sips fuel like one.

So, what do we make of the Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid? On paper, this was the deal of 2016, hands down. But it’s more than just a good deal, it’s a good drive too, and proof that it’s possible to deliver hybrid economy without completely ignoring driver appeal. The Ioniq does not conform to the hybrid template set by the incumbents, and is the better for it. New thinking and new possibilities indeed.

UPDATE: We’ve had another go in the Ioniq to gauge fuel consumption in normal, everyday driving. Over my 236.6 km of mixed driving (urban plus highway), the car returned an average of 19.9 km/l, according to the trip computer. According to the car, 48% of my driving was classified as ‘economical’, 47% ‘normal’ and 5% ‘aggressive’. Without one fast blast down the highway, I would have done over 20 km/l, which is realistically achievable. Decent returns for a hybrid without a lock-in EV mode.


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Danny Tan

Danny Tan loves driving as much as he loves a certain herbal meat soup, and sweet engine music as much as drum beats. He has been in the auto industry since 2006, previously filling the pages of two motoring magazines before joining this website. Enjoys detailing the experience more than the technical details.

 

Comments

  • TongHoi on Jan 06, 2017 at 8:44 pm

    Really on my shopping list but whatever wait for 2nd batch…to be safe..haha

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 45 Thumb down 4
    • how to know when is 2nd batch?

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 6 Thumb down 2
      • ioniq, worth it? on Jan 06, 2017 at 10:27 pm

        Just wait for a few month. 3 to 4 months is enough, i think.

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 21 Thumb down 2
      • MacD Cake on Jan 07, 2017 at 12:20 am

        looks good and well written article. Korea i going strong and we are getting backward here.

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 34 Thumb down 2
        • jeffwhlim (Member) on Jan 07, 2017 at 1:52 pm

          Note: 3 years / 60,000km Free maintenance and free 3 years GAP insurance promotion ending 11 Jan. Must book before 11 Jan to entitle. Also, after 300th unit delivered, price shall hike Rm5k. Google “Hyundai Jefferson Lim” for my contacts.

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 21 Thumb down 5
          • Pengho on Jan 07, 2017 at 3:33 pm

            This is using takata airbags or not?
            Sked go early afterlife

            Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 22
          • Kunta Kinte on Jan 08, 2017 at 6:07 pm

            I want to support my country. I don’t want to support barang buatan negara lain. I am very patriotic. I believe in Barang Buatan Malaysia.

            Where is our Proton Hybrid and Perodua Hybrid?

            Why wait for China company in Malaysia to produce hybrids and EV? We buy China EV and Hybrids, money moves out of Malaysia and get repatriated back to China.

            If we buy Proton and Perodua hybrid, money stays in the country.

            Like or Dislike: Thumb up 9 Thumb down 29
          • kuntak on Jan 08, 2017 at 7:58 pm

            That’s why you shouldn’t say p1 dumping cars when they export it

            Grow up kunta

            Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 3
    • “but we understand that an Android system is under development”

      That sentence alone is enough for me to hold my horses

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 15 Thumb down 5
      • Fong Kah Wai on Jan 07, 2017 at 3:37 pm

        Anything assemble in Malaysia is questionable.I don’t buy CKD.I trusted expensive imported.Money is not the problem.I just mark up my retail price,any government servant will pay for it.

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 51
  • the HU is like crappy display china OEM RM100 per piece…

    i want this leh
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mHA2zKf3G9A

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 38
    • Chris on Jan 07, 2017 at 9:46 am

      Went for a test drive, prepared to put down my money on one ioniq, till i use the HU…

      Like you said, it is like a China OEM unit… Only comes with radio function.

      What is the use of 7 inch if you do not know how to use it?

      =.=

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 3
      • jeffwhlim (Member) on Jan 07, 2017 at 1:54 pm

        Reverse camera and Bluetooth Audio streaming

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 11 Thumb down 0
        • Chris on Jan 09, 2017 at 9:06 am

          It beats the purpose of 7 inch for only reverse camera… 4 inch would have been adequate. ?Heck, even Saga rear view mirror reverse cam is sufficient.

          The HU should support Carplay/Android Auto and show you hybrid information with navigation.

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 0
          • Shadow on Mar 12, 2017 at 7:10 pm

            Android Auto not supported in our region.

            Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 2
    • camtakpro on Jan 09, 2017 at 9:32 pm

      No idea why you are heavily downvoted. If the CKD Ioniq here are loaded with crappy useless HU unlike those global’s offering, I can patiently just wait for Ioniq facelift. Or settle for another if waiting is no longer ‘sustainable’.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 1
  • Mystvearn on Jan 06, 2017 at 9:50 pm

    Thanks for the review Danny. Can I know more about the boot space and do the rear seats fold down?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 5
    • Mohammad Hafiz Abdul Rahim on Jan 06, 2017 at 11:41 pm

      check out the walk around video

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 0
    • The pictures above shows the rear seats fold down.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 1
    • Danny Tan (Member) on Jan 07, 2017 at 12:47 am

      HSDM quotes 750 litres of boot space and I believe this is with the seats folded, up to the load cover. Full size spare.

      http://paultan.org/2016/11/29/hyundai-ioniq-hybrid-launched-in-malaysia/hyundai_ioniq_int-35/

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 6 Thumb down 3
  • Semi-Value (Member) on Jan 06, 2017 at 9:56 pm

    for a brand that seem dead in malaysia after the disappointing tucson, this is amazing….and its good to drive too? wow…just wow syabas

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 46 Thumb down 1
  • Semi-Value (Member) on Jan 06, 2017 at 9:59 pm

    additionally, hyundai malaysia made a rather good website….

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 33 Thumb down 0
  • Mikey on Jan 06, 2017 at 10:21 pm

    Just saw one yesterday following from the back. I was curious as I’ve never seen anything quite like this so I move over to my left & let it pass.

    To my surprise, it looks better in flesh than in this picture/video. It looks sporty 4 a Hybrid. After reading the article further, I have no doubt this Hyundai will be a success just by it’s look alone.

    The best part of the deal is it’s price. At 111k, you can never buy a C-segment car that has all the bells & whistles & then some in the name of blind spot detection, autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist & adaptive cruise control.

    Well-loved. Like or Dislike: Thumb up 100 Thumb down 1
    • kaizen on Jan 06, 2017 at 11:53 pm

      be prepared…..all these installed bells and whistles electronic spare parts especially sensors wont be cheap to replace in the future

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 54
      • Gangnam on Jan 07, 2017 at 6:19 pm

        You remind me of those old uncles who still think carburettor is the best.

        I remember my first car was a satria 1.6 with fuel injection and some of my older folks were like oh no, your engine spoil, it is going to be costly to repair. Your big tail light will be very expensive to replace. Yeah right…. This are uncles who only drive Nissan sunny and Toyota corolla era.

        Anyway, time to move on. I still have friend who only buy junk car coz they scare their under the tree mechanic don’t know how to fix. They didn’t realise their under the tree have been fleecing them each time they went servicing.

        To me, this hybrid is good for those who want to try hybrid and it definitely look much better than prius or Honda insight. Good move Hyundai.

        Well-loved. Like or Dislike: Thumb up 68 Thumb down 1
      • Tarzen on Jan 07, 2017 at 6:38 pm

        Why u worry. U are katak Kunta kakikah?

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 5 Thumb down 0
      • Ioniq 2017 owner on Jan 07, 2017 at 11:50 pm

        I just don’t understand why some people are so negative and they like to screw out people’s party who wish to embrace new car tech of the future

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 13 Thumb down 0
      • Ah Kow on Jan 09, 2017 at 8:26 am

        Tell that to Faraday Future 91

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 1
  • Middle Age Driver (Member) on Jan 06, 2017 at 10:36 pm

    Any hybrid DCT Tucson in the works? I don’t fancy low down cars anymore. Malaysian roads becomes a river whenever there’s a heavy thunderstorm or monsoon.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 13 Thumb down 2
    • Danny Tan (Member) on Jan 07, 2017 at 12:49 am

      There won’t be a “Tucson Hybrid”, but one with a 1.6 turbo engine + DCT will be introduced in this quarter

      http://paultan.org/2016/12/23/hyundai-tucson-1-6-t-gdi-turbo-and-2-0-crdi-diesel-variants-coming-to-malaysia-in-q1-2017/

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 20 Thumb down 1
  • fucuk on Jan 06, 2017 at 10:44 pm

    Full size spare tyre…this is a hybrid car I wanna buy!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 20 Thumb down 0
    • jeffwhlim (Member) on Jan 07, 2017 at 1:57 pm

      High spec only. HEV std still gives Donut spare wheel

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 9 Thumb down 1
  • Jaguar on Jan 06, 2017 at 11:02 pm

    Truly an engineering and beauty masterpiece. Unlike Proton in such a sad stage. Senile old begger begging gomen for money to sell his pet cars nobody bothers to even look at it.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 27 Thumb down 3
  • Anything But Toyota, Greedy Honda on Jan 07, 2017 at 12:13 am

    Bravo Hyundai! Guys please try out these cars, big value for so much safety at this price.
    Shame on you Toyota for only front airbags for your Sienta. Worse is Honda for overprice their BRV, which is a low-cost A-segment car with just two airbags!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 29 Thumb down 2
  • paparadzi (Member) on Jan 07, 2017 at 1:45 am

    Paul, please make a comparison test between this Ioniq and the 3rd generation (2013) Toyota Hybrid. These two cars have so much similarities.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 8 Thumb down 4
    • the 3rd gen prius sold in 2013 was developed between 2004-2008 before launched in 2009. how come you make comparison between the 2 cars? its like comparing apple to an apple of 2 years ago. its gone.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 2
  • Is the DCT a dry or wet type, could you please highlight? Thanks

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 6
    • kiasu on Jan 07, 2017 at 10:38 pm

      It’s a dry type, I think PT mentioned that in other related articles.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 6 Thumb down 0
  • K3 Owner on Jan 07, 2017 at 9:09 am

    Bought Kia K3 2.0 around 103k last year.. I feel regret now, just add another few thousands I will definitely take the high spec Ioniq…. FML

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 9 Thumb down 1
    • Sam Jamal Loo on Jan 07, 2017 at 2:31 pm

      No need to feel hard to yourself, coz those bought pre-FL Toyota Altis 1.8 around RM125k last year.. feel deeper regret now, can take the high spec Ioniq while save another few thousands…. Oh Wai, they can’t afford to change it coz trade in price for Altis now not more than RM75k – 99.9% need to top up loan by tens of thousands (wow… for 1 year old car).

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 13 Thumb down 2
    • POONA on Jan 12, 2017 at 12:06 pm

      lel u didnt knw the ioniq is launch or not in malaysia.. so be grateful la

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • Can the electric scooter fit into this variant?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 5 Thumb down 0
  • Yes definitely more pleasing to the eyes compared to Prius or Insight but CR-Z is the best looking hybrid.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 10 Thumb down 12
  • maybe not as reputable as the prius, but this one heck of a deal hands down

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 18 Thumb down 0
  • Blaster88 on Jan 07, 2017 at 12:19 pm

    So much car for a little more than MYR100K…put some German and Japanese marques to serious shame ep in terms accessories and safety features. Great job Hyundai!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 24 Thumb down 1
  • Blaster88 on Jan 07, 2017 at 12:25 pm

    And not a bad looker as well….frontal view looking like a A4 B9….. at this price, this is a game changer for the Malaysian market! Plus 5 years warranty and 8 years for the battery etc.??? Makes me wonder… the rest of the other brands were fleecing Malaysians all these years?…Bastards!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 27 Thumb down 3
  • Tkhengong on Jan 07, 2017 at 1:30 pm

    I would wait a year or two when a significant numbers of the car are on the road and hopefully by this time Hyundai would have ironed out the bugs before putting my money on the car. I owned a 3rd gen Prius and there is plenty I have learnt from the car hybrid system. I am pleased to say it is solid as a rock. Never failed me even once and it’s entering it’s 7th year in February. I hope UMW brings in the 4th generation Prius though.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 5 Thumb down 9
  • Bernard on Jan 07, 2017 at 2:10 pm

    Too advanced to be introduced here. Assembled in Kulim does not inspire confidence. If something goes wrong, would the msian mechanics be able to rectify? Maybe in Bolehland it would be better to get a less technical straightforward car like a Camry and second hand at that…

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 7 Thumb down 28
  • tkhengong on Jan 07, 2017 at 2:31 pm

    I guess it is priced as such as Hyundai is using early adopters to solicit feedback and iron out any bugs in the car. Anyway, when I went to check out the car, the salesman whom I spoke to doesn’t seem like he knew much about the car.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 5
  • DANIEL on Jan 07, 2017 at 3:04 pm

    Very good value no doubt but pray that it does not break down out of HSDM HQ in the Klang Valley especially the DCT in our climate, otherwise their dealers out of the Klang valley will not be able to resolve it without HQ involvement. Car has to be towed to HQ. Parts may not be available and may need to wait for months. Check with the VW owners on the DCT issues.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 16
    • autodriver (Member) on Jan 09, 2017 at 12:13 pm

      You applied vw DCT cases into kia? You should compare same brands rather than other brand. Both vw and kia DCT are in-house development which is having different kind of tech and setup.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 1
  • kiasu on Jan 07, 2017 at 10:36 pm

    No EV button, if don’t have gas or gas finished on the route, electric motor automatically take over ke ?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 7
    • Danny Tan (Member) on Jan 08, 2017 at 4:39 pm

      As with all cars with an engine, if you run out of gas (I presume you mean petrol), you’re screwed, hybrid or not

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 15 Thumb down 0
  • Good car, maybe it’s gonna change our people perspective on Korean car. I hope Kia will come up with it’s sister car too.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
    • thepolygonal on Jan 09, 2017 at 9:36 am

      Kia bring in Niro Hybrid SUV… become first affordable hybrid SUV in Malaysia! Yeahhhh…

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
  • Give us a facelifted Sonata hybrid or an SUV with Hybrid systems. Then i will get excited.

    C-segment hatchback? How many do you see on the road here? Thanks but no thanks.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 3
  • 2012jazzhybrid on Jan 09, 2017 at 10:10 am

    I’ve been driving my jazz hybrid(CBU) for 4 years now & I appreciate the technology that comes with it. IONIQ will be a great car for fuel efficient enthusiast & people who appreciate the safety package that comes with it. I love it when the low end torque it boosted/assisted by the electric motor..power on demand. Wish our gomen can re-introduce the tax exemption for hybrid cars again..this would be a great deal!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 7 Thumb down 2
  • Ben Yap on Jan 09, 2017 at 10:20 am

    i test drive it last year and i couldn’t feel the urge of the 265Nm of torque. i was quite disappointed with the acceleration. it’s no sporty car for sure and doesn’t commensurate with the looks of sportiness….

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 5
  • Ex-hybrid-owner on Jan 09, 2017 at 11:13 am

    I really like this car a lot but from my experience of loosing so much when selling my Prius, I will have to think twice.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 0
  • Farid Mz3 Owner on Jan 11, 2017 at 11:47 am

    There should be a comparison to a Skyactiv Mazda 3 here. To truly highlight between a refined and efficient ICE and the hybrid. On top of that, for looks, the C segment has more than just Toyotas btw. Theres not much choice in Malaysia for C segment, so a head to head between Mazda, Ford, Honda, Toyota and Hyundai should be something we all like to see soon.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
  • WATERMAN on Jan 12, 2017 at 11:31 pm

    Do not click subtitle in this video!!!
    it will says he’s speaking GERMAN!!!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 2
  • coles56 on Feb 17, 2017 at 6:03 pm

    I do not agree.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 1
  • sweetheart on Mar 10, 2017 at 5:02 pm

    i have loan the Hyundai ioniq phoenix orange color since jan 2017. but until now, mar I still waiting my car to be shipped to Sabah. and my salesman just informed me that my car might be arrived in april. OMG!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 1
  • becsto on May 27, 2017 at 8:38 am

    “Understandably so, as without government incentives, prices ballooned to the usual high levels that we pay for imported cars”
    I don’t agree.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 1
  • TeachYouHowToPronounceTheName on Jun 29, 2017 at 12:22 pm

    Hafriz is repeating Hyun-die, Hyun-die, Hyun-die at the beginning of the video.
    Please pronounce it correctly, cause Paultan.org does a lot of influence to Malaysian.
    Refer to the Korean, Hyundai = Hee-on-day

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 4
 

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