6 Best & Worst Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid Years (Facts & Stats)

The Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid, produced from 2017 to 2022, serves as the forerunner to the currently manufactured Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6.

It stands out as an affordable and efficient choice, ideal for those seeking a discreet yet capable mode of transportation.

In this article, we’ll delve into the best and worst model years of the Ioniq Hybrid.

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Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid Are:

The best Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid model years are 2022 and 2020. The worst model years of this model are 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2021. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.

What Are The Best Years For The Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid?

2022 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid

The 2022 Ioniq Hybrid represents the final iteration before Hyundai’s major shift to the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 models. It’s a reliable choice for those in search of a fuel-efficient vehicle for everyday use.

For this model year, the base trim achieves an EPA-estimated 59 MPG for combined city and highway driving, while the more upscale trims average around 55 MPG under similar conditions.

There are four trim levels available: Blue, SE, SEL, and Limited.

Each variant is equipped with a modest 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 139 horsepower, coupled with a battery pack and a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Key safety features include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blindspot Collision Warning with Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning, and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go functionality.

Edmunds: 4.0 / 5.0
Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0
JD Power: 73 / 100

2022 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid, Kelley Blue Book Review:

“Good things: Fuel economy, clean and simple, hatchback room for filling car full of your stuff, slick look, no issues at 90,000+ miles. Could be better: road noise is super loud in cabin (probably due to simple, lightweight design) so I wear airpods while driving to mitigate noise and easily answer phone calls…”

2020 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid

The 2020 Ioniq Hybrid is one of the standout model years, positioned amidst years with notably more issues.

It boasts impressive fuel efficiency, a wealth of both standard and optional technological features and driver aids, and considerable cargo space for its class.

This model year introduced a subtle style update for both the interior and exterior, enhanced feature offerings, and an expansion of standard equipment.

According to online reviews from owners, these are the standout characteristics of the model:

Interior
Infotainment system
Reliability
Manufacturing quality
Technology

There are 4 trims: Blue, SE, SEL, and Limited.

If your budget allows, and you can locate a gently used, low-mileage version, opting for the mid-tier SEL model is an excellent decision. This trim level is equipped with numerous frequently utilized features, including adaptive cruise control, making it a highly attractive option.

Edmunds: 3.9 / 5.0
Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0
JD Power: NA

2020 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid, Edmunds Review:

“I have been wanting a more economical vehicle for several years, but did not care for the style and ride of what was offered. Then I read about the Hyundai line of Ioniq vehicles and was impressed… I have had the Ioniq for almost a month now and have not been disappointed. I am averaging 50 MPG which I find very good for a brand new vehicle…”

Consumer Scores For Best Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid Years

Model Year	Edmunds Consumer Rating	Kelley Blue Book Consumer Rating	JD Power Consumer Rating
2022 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid	4.0 / 5.0	4.2 / 5.0	73 / 100
2020 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid	3.9 / 5.0	4.2 / 5.0	NA

What Are The Worst Years For The Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid?

2017, 2018, and 2019 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid

The 2017 Ioniq Hybrid is recognized as the most problematic model year, sharing a range of common issues with its subsequent versions, the 2018 and 2019 models.

Concerns over safety were heightened among some owners due to the potential fire risk associated with various electrical system malfunctions.

Investigations pinpointed the main relay, an essential element of the car’s electronics, as being defective.

There were reports from several owners who noticed a burning smell, and a few even experienced their vehicles catching fire as a result.

“While driving the Ioniq hybrid, the car’s cabin filled with smoke that was coming from the rear seat. I immediately pulled over, shut the car off, removed as many items from the car as possible and called my wife, 2 miles down the road at home to bring a fire extinguisher. Upon her arrival roughly 5 mins later, flames began emerging from the backseat, which I quickly extinguished and proceeded to call 911…” – NHTSA.gov

The 2017 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid had a total of 7 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 26 problems based on NHTSA.gov data.
The 2018 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid had a total of 3 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 10 problems based on NHTSA.gov data.
The 2019 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid had a total of 6 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 10 problems based on NHTSA.gov data.

Common problems:

Brakes do not respond
Transmission shaft failure
Excessive battery drain

2021 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid

The 2021 Ioniq Hybrid had its fair share of unique issues.

Based on online reports, the main issues identified include an unreliable cruise control system, issues with the electronic parking brake functioning improperly, and failures in the brake calipers.

“The contact owns a 2021 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving at various highway speeds, the electronic parking brake and auto hold indicator lights erroneously activated. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered…” – NHTSA.gov

Owners also complained about glitches and issues with the Apple CarPlay function.

“The Apple car play system quits when you are using maps.” – NHTSA.gov

The 2021 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid had a total of 1 complaint on CarComplaints.com and 10 problems based on NHTSA.gov data.