Though it’s been only five years since its debut, the Hyundai Ioniq has already proven to be a competitive hybrid sedan. The automaker’s answer to the iconic Toyota Prius offers drivers standard hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models. And in 2020, Hyundai redesigned the Ioniq to include a refreshed grille, bumpers, and wheels.

Here’s a detailed look at the hybrid that “checks all the requisite fuel-sipper boxes,” TrueCar says.

What are the 2022 Hyundai Ioniq’s hybrid options?

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq offers two powertrains — a 1.6-liter gas-electric inline-four hybrid and a 1.6-liter plug-in inline-four hybrid — across seven models. 

Both powertrains offer 139 hp and 109 lb-ft of torque with regular unleaded gas. But their fuel economy differs slightly.

The gas-electric hybrid powertrain in the hybrid SE, SEL, and Limited trims gets 55 mpg combined. Compare that to the 52 mpg combined and 29 miles of electric range in the Ioniq plug-in hybrid SE, SEL, and Limited trims. The Hybrid Blue — powered by the gas-electric unit — tops them all with 59 mpg.

All trim options except the Blue come with paddle shifters for the six-speed automatic transmission. 

What are the Hyundai Ioniq trim levels?

The standard Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid Blue provides plenty of perks. They include cloth seats, an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, lane-keeping assist, forward-collision avoidance assist with pedestrian detection, and driver attention warning. This model is available only as a gas-electric hybrid.

Upgrade to the SE trim, and you get gas-electric and plug-in powertrain options and plenty more standard features. A leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated front seats, paddle shifters, and blind-spot warning are included. The PHEV adds dual-climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and smart cruise control.

Another trim level up to the SEL brings a power tilt-and-slide sunroof, wireless charging, and 17-inch wheels. In addition, the PHEV provides blindspot warning, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and rear cross-traffic alert. It’s also the model that TrueCar recommends.

The range-topping Limited provides an eight-speaker audio system, built-in navigation, a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, highway driving assist, and standard front and rear parking sensors. 

How much does the Hyundai Ioniq cost?

The 2022 Ioniq’s pricing breaks down like this, per Hyundai:

• Blue: $23,600
• SE: $25,550
• SEL: $28,800
• Limited: $31,600

Those prices compare well with the Toyota Prius, whose MSRP ranges from $24,625 to $32,920. And the comparable Honda Insight hybrid sedan offers only two trims, ranging from $25,760 to $29,790.

Does the Ioniq beat the competition?

As Car and Driver notes, the 2022 Hyundai Ioniq looks like a regular car, unlike the Prius, with its extroverted styling. TrueCar says the Ioniq “checks all the requisite fuel-sipper boxes”: Its starting price is under $25,000, it’s aerodynamically styled, it has plenty of standard features, and it gets nearly 60 mpg.

So if you’re looking for a hybrid daily driver, the Ioniq is a great choice. Sure, it won’t thrill you, but TrueCar notes the cabin stays quiet, and the ride is cushy and composed. The large screens and leather seats in the upper-level trims make for a nice interior. And though the seats can get a bit uncomfortable on longer trips, the cargo area provides plenty of space.

Overall, the Ioniq falls short on space but is less expensive than the Prius, TrueCar says. 

In TrueCar’s roundup of the best plug-in hybrid cars of 2022, the Ioniq ranks second behind the luxury Karma GSe-6. Move over to the best overall hybrid car rankings, and TrueCar ranks the Ioniq third behind other Hyundai models (the Elantra and Sonata), making for a strong contender.