The Hyundai Ioniq has been spied testing and we have the first photos of the upcoming hybrid’s interior. It’s well known now that the Korean automaker is readying its own Toyota Prius fighter with a dedicated hybrid model called the Ioniq. Although very little has been confirmed about the model, including its name, rumor has it that the hybrid powertrain will feature a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired to an electric motor and Hyundai’s compact lithium-ion battery pack. With the combination of a smaller body and more dedicated hybrid tech, expect the Ioniq to be more fuel efficient than the current Sonata Hybrid that has a 41 mpg combined rating. SEE ALSO: Hyundai Ioniq Named as Prius-Fighter The Hyundai Ioniq was first reported earlier this year and has since shed some of its camouflage. Although we still don’t get a great look at the exterior, it does have a similar overall shape to the Prius. The inside carries signature Hyundai styling with a clean design for the dash and center console. Expect more details on the Hyundai Ioniq next year when it is expected to officially debut. Discuss this story at our Hyundai Ioniq Forum
The Toyota Prius will soon have a competitor from Korea and rumours suggest it’ll be called the Hyundai Ioniq. Rumours of Hyundai’s new dedicated hybrid has been circulating online for a while now, but this new batch of spy photos suggests the Ioniq is pretty close to entering the ring against the Prius, Chevrolet Volt, and other mainstream hybrids. Not much is known about the Ioniq’s powertrain, although it is worth remembering that Hyundai isn’t new to the hybrid game thanks to its Sonata sedan, and rumours also suggest the automaker is developing an all-electric model in conjunction with the hybrid. Kia Motors America recently announced plans to build two electric vehicles at their factory in San Antonio, Texas.