Auto Guide
2021 Hyundai Ioniq
Used

Review and specifications

2021 Hyundai Ioniq

The Ioniq is the first direct challenger to the Toyota Prius. Evoking the Prius silhouette and hatchback configuration, the Ioniq hybrid matches it as a fuel sipper with 52 mpg overall. Power comes from a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine which, combined with the electric drive, puts out a combined 139 hp. The six-speed dual-clutch transmission isn't the smoothest and there's some delay off the line. Like other hybrids it can drive on electric power at low speeds. Handling lacks agility and the ride is a bit unsettled but unobjectionable. The SEL comes with a power seat for an affordable price. A suite of advanced safety features is available, including automatic braking, smart cruise control, and blind spot warning with rear cross traffic warning. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility is standard. There are also plug-in and fully electric versions. The 2020 model got styling and interior upgrades. The Electric version's driving range increases from 124 miles to 170 miles and gets a horsepower boost from 118 to 134 hp. Standard safety systems now include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane keeping assistance. Pedestrian detection is available on some top trims. The Ioniq got a freshening for 2021, most notably updating the brake system and switching to a different tire brand and model. Braking performance was markedly improved from the 2017 introduction model year. 2022 is the final year for the Ioniq.

Market value
$13,950
Fuel
Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Seats
5
View listings Find dealers
Model year 2021
Owner rating Not rated
Reliability 3/5
Data updated June 4, 2026

At a glance

Model data

Overview

Powertrain
Hybrid
Body style
4-door hatchback
Drive type
FWD
Transmission
Sequential, 6-speed
Category
Electric cars
Generation began
2017

Pricing

Current retail median
$13,950
Retail value range
$10,600 - $16,600
Original MSRP range
$23,400 - $38,815
Trade-in range
$7,755 - $13,760

Ratings

Road test score
82/100
Reliability
3/5

Fuel economy

EPA city
54 MPG
EPA highway
56 MPG
EPA combined
55 MPG
Tested city
40 MPG
Tested highway
63 MPG
Tested overall
52 MPG
Annual fuel cost
$750
Cruising range
620 miles

Road tests

0-30 mph
3.4 sec
0-60 mph
9.1 sec
60-0 mph braking
130 ft
Avoidance speed
54.5 mph
Test status
Test Completed

Dimensions

Length
176 in
Width
72 in
Height
57 in
Wheelbase
106 in
Weight
3,055 lb
Maximum load
850 lb
Towing capacity
0 lb

Interior

Seating
5 people
Front head room
5.5 in
Front leg room
43.5 in
Rear head room
2 in
Rear leg room
27.5 in
Luggage
3+0+0

Environmental impact

Air pollution score
7/10
Greenhouse gas score
10/10
SmartWay
Yes

Brand context

About Hyundai

<p>From low-cost sedans to three-row electric SUVs, Hyundai has a model for almost every kind of customer. Most new Hyundai vehicles are stylish, functional, and competitively priced, but the brand overall ranks around the middle in Consumer Reports’ reliability and owner satisfaction ratings. Performance for individual models and years varies widely, with some standouts and a few laggards. The core Hyundai lineup includes low-cost compact Elantra and midsized Sonata sedan. SUVs include the subcompact Kona and compact Tucson, plus the midsized Santa Fe and larger Palisade, both of which offer hybrid powertrains and three-row seating. In our testing, most Hyundai models are available with a hybrid drivetrain, which adds power and smoothness while improving fuel economy. The Ioniq electric models are high-tech, well-designed, and can charge quite rapidly at public DC fast charging stations.</p>

Vehicle ID: 22006 First published: October 9, 2021 Updated: June 4, 2026

Values may vary by trim, options, location, and market conditions.

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