2019 Hyundai Ioniq Electric: A Comprehensive Review

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2019 Hyundai Ioniq Electric, a car that really carved out its niche in the burgeoning EV market. If you're eyeing an electric vehicle that offers a solid blend of efficiency, practicality, and value, you've come to the right place. We're going to break down everything you need to know, from its performance and range to its interior comfort and tech. Let's get started and see if this electric hatchback still holds up!

Performance and Range: What You Can Expect

When it comes to performance and range, the 2019 Hyundai Ioniq Electric was designed with everyday usability in mind. This isn't a supercar, and it doesn't pretend to be. Instead, it focuses on delivering a smooth, quiet, and efficient driving experience perfect for commuting and daily errands. Under the hood (or rather, under the floor), it's powered by an electric motor that produces a respectable 118 horsepower and 218 lb-ft of torque. This might not sound like a huge number compared to some of the powerhouse EVs out there today, but trust me, it's more than enough to get the Ioniq Electric moving briskly off the line and merging onto highways with confidence. The instant torque of an electric motor means acceleration feels surprisingly zippy, especially at lower speeds. You'll find it's very responsive, making city driving a breeze and taking the stress out of stop-and-go traffic. The ride quality is also worth noting; it's generally comfortable and well-composed, absorbing bumps and road imperfections effectively. It’s not the sportiest ride, but it prioritizes passenger comfort, which is a big win for many drivers. The steering is light and predictable, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and park. While it’s not built for aggressive driving, the Ioniq Electric provides a stable and secure feel on the road. For those concerned about the 'eco' driving aspect, Hyundai included different drive modes that allow you to tailor the car's responsiveness and energy regeneration. The Sport mode sharpens throttle response a bit, while Eco and Eco+ modes maximize range by reducing power output and climate control effectiveness. This flexibility is a great feature for drivers who want to experiment with maximizing their miles per charge. The braking system also deserves a mention. It employs regenerative braking, which is a hallmark of EVs. This system captures energy that would otherwise be lost during deceleration and braking, feeding it back into the battery. You can adjust the intensity of the regenerative braking through paddle shifters on the steering wheel, allowing for one-pedal driving in certain situations. This not only enhances efficiency but also adds a unique and engaging driving dynamic. It takes a little getting used to, but once you master it, you'll find yourself relying on the brake pedal much less, especially in city driving. It’s a clever system that truly highlights the car’s electric nature and its focus on efficiency. Now, let's talk range. The 2019 Ioniq Electric boasts an EPA-estimated range of 124 miles on a full charge. In the world of EVs, this figure might seem modest by today's standards, especially with newer models easily surpassing 200-300 miles. However, for its time and for its intended purpose, it was quite competitive, particularly for drivers whose daily commutes are well within this limit. It’s crucial to remember that real-world range can vary significantly based on driving style, weather conditions (cold weather typically reduces range), terrain, and HVAC usage. If your daily drive is, say, 30-50 miles round trip, this range is more than sufficient, leaving plenty of buffer for unexpected trips or errands. Charging is also a key aspect of the EV experience. The 2019 Ioniq Electric supports DC fast charging, which is a game-changer. Using a compatible DC fast charger, you can replenish the battery from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes. This significantly reduces range anxiety for longer trips, allowing you to top up quickly during a coffee break. At home, using a Level 2 charger (the most common type for home installation), a full charge typically takes around 6 hours. This means you can easily charge the car overnight and wake up to a full battery every morning, ready for the day ahead. The onboard charger is rated at 6.6 kW, which is pretty standard for this class of vehicle. The charging port is conveniently located on the front passenger side, and the car provides clear indications of charging status. When considering the 2019 Ioniq Electric, it's essential to evaluate its range and performance within the context of its release year and its target audience. It was a practical, efficient, and affordable EV option, perfect for those who didn't need massive range but wanted to embrace electric driving. It truly represented Hyundai's commitment to offering accessible electric mobility.

Interior Comfort and Design: A Practical Space

Step inside the 2019 Hyundai Ioniq Electric, and you'll find an interior that prioritizes interior comfort and design with a focus on practicality and surprising spaciousness for its class. Hyundai did a fantastic job of making the cabin feel open and airy, especially considering it's an electric vehicle that often needs to house batteries. The design is clean, modern, and uncluttered, with a logical layout of controls that makes everything easy to find and use. One of the standout features is the generous amount of headroom and legroom, both in the front and rear seats. Even taller passengers should find the Ioniq Electric surprisingly accommodating, which is a big plus for a hatchback. The seats themselves are comfortable and supportive, offering good cushioning for longer journeys. While the cloth upholstery in the base models is durable and pleasant, higher trims offer a leather option for those seeking a touch more luxury. The overall ambiance is one of refined simplicity. The dashboard features a user-friendly touchscreen infotainment system, which is responsive and intuitive to navigate. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone for navigation, music, and calls. This is a critical feature for modern drivers, and its inclusion makes the Ioniq Electric feel very connected. Beyond the infotainment, the physical buttons for climate control and other frequently used functions are well-placed and easy to operate, which I always appreciate. Hyundai also made smart use of storage spaces within the cabin. There are ample cupholders, a decent-sized center console bin, and door pockets that can hold water bottles and other essentials. The placement of the gear selector, a series of buttons rather than a traditional lever, frees up space in the center console, contributing to the car's open feel. The materials used throughout the cabin are a mix of soft-touch plastics and harder, durable surfaces. While it might not feel as premium as some luxury EVs, the quality is solid for its price point, and everything feels well-assembled. There are no creaks or rattles to be heard, which speaks volumes about Hyundai's build quality. Another interesting aspect of the Ioniq Electric's interior is its environmental focus. Hyundai highlighted the use of recycled and sustainable materials in its construction, such as powdered wood and plastic composites for interior parts and volcanic Tencel for carpets. This eco-conscious approach aligns perfectly with the car's electric powertrain and appeals to environmentally aware buyers. The ergonomics are excellent; the driving position is commanding, offering good visibility out of the front and sides. The steering wheel is adjustable for both tilt and telescopic, making it easy to find a comfortable driving position. The rear seats offer decent legroom, and the seatbacks can fold down to expand cargo capacity, which is a crucial aspect of any hatchback's practicality. Even with the rear seats up, the cargo space is adequate for groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. The rear cargo area is flat and wide, making it easy to load and unload items. For a compact EV, the Ioniq Electric offers a surprisingly versatile and comfortable interior that punches above its weight class. It's a space that feels thoughtfully designed for everyday life, balancing modern technology with practical considerations and a touch of eco-friendly flair. It’s a cabin that makes you feel good about your purchase, both for its comfort and its sustainable approach.

Technology and Safety Features: Staying Connected and Protected

When we talk about technology and safety features, the 2019 Hyundai Ioniq Electric proves that affordable EVs don't have to skimp on the important stuff. Hyundai equipped this car with a solid suite of modern tech and advanced safety systems, making it a compelling package for safety-conscious and tech-savvy buyers alike. Let's start with the tech. The infotainment system is centered around a user-friendly touchscreen display, usually 7 or 8 inches depending on the trim level. This system is the heart of the car's connectivity. As mentioned earlier, it comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. This is a huge win, guys, because it means you can mirror your smartphone's interface directly onto the car's screen. Accessing your favorite navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze, streaming music from Spotify or Apple Music, and making calls via voice command are all seamless. It dramatically enhances the user experience and keeps you connected without needing to fumble with your phone. Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming is also standard across the board. Beyond the infotainment screen, the Ioniq Electric offers a digital instrument cluster on higher trims, providing clear and customizable information about your driving speed, range, energy consumption, and navigation prompts. It’s a modern touch that adds to the premium feel of the interior. Other convenient tech features include keyless entry with push-button start, automatic climate control (often dual-zone), and available features like wireless phone charging and a premium sound system. Hyundai's approach was to make the Ioniq Electric feel modern and convenient, and they succeeded by including these essential technologies. Now, let's shift gears to safety. This is where the Ioniq Electric really shines, especially considering its price point. Hyundai offered a comprehensive suite of active safety features, many of which were optional but widely available. Standard safety equipment includes multiple airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, and electronic stability control – the usual suspects that form the foundation of modern car safety. However, where it impresses is with the availability of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Depending on the trim and optional packages, you could get features like: Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA): This system uses a camera and radar to detect vehicles and pedestrians ahead and can automatically apply the brakes if a collision is imminent. Lane Keeping Assist (LKA): This feature helps keep the car centered in its lane by providing steering assistance if the car begins to drift unintentionally. Smart Cruise Control (SCC): This is more than just cruise control; it maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically slowing down or speeding up as traffic conditions change. This is a lifesaver on long highway drives. Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW): This system alerts you if a vehicle is detected in your blind spot, making lane changes much safer. Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning (RCCW): When backing out of a parking spot, this system warns you of approaching vehicles from the side. These advanced safety features not only enhance driver confidence but also significantly reduce the risk of accidents. The Ioniq Electric's crash test ratings were generally very good, reflecting Hyundai's commitment to passenger safety. The combination of a robust structure and these advanced technologies makes it a secure choice for families and daily commuters. It’s reassuring to know that an affordable electric car like the 2019 Ioniq Electric comes packed with so many ways to help you stay safe and connected on the road. Hyundai really delivered a well-rounded package that balances cutting-edge technology with essential safety systems, making it a smart and responsible choice for anyone looking to go electric.

Conclusion: Is the 2019 Ioniq Electric Still a Good Buy?

So, after dissecting the 2019 Hyundai Ioniq Electric, what's the verdict? Is this electric hatchback still a viable option in today's rapidly evolving EV landscape? The short answer is: yes, absolutely, for the right buyer. If you're looking for an affordable entry into the electric vehicle market, the 2019 Ioniq Electric remains a compelling choice, especially if you can find one in good condition. Its strengths lie in its incredible efficiency, practical interior, and a solid list of standard and available tech and safety features. For drivers with shorter commutes or those who have access to charging at home or work, the 124-mile range is more than sufficient for daily driving. The comfort and quietness of the ride, combined with the smooth electric acceleration, make it a genuinely pleasant car to drive. Plus, the availability of DC fast charging means longer trips aren't entirely out of the question, provided you plan your stops. Hyundai’s reputation for reliability also lends a lot of confidence to buying a used Ioniq Electric. They are generally well-built vehicles that hold up well over time. The interior, with its focus on sustainable materials and smart design, feels modern and functional, and the inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto keeps it relevant even by today's standards. Safety is another big win; the availability of advanced driver-assistance systems like forward collision avoidance and lane keeping assist makes it a very secure option. When you consider the purchase price of a used 2019 Ioniq Electric, it often represents a fantastic value proposition. You get a lot of car for your money, with the added benefits of zero tailpipe emissions and lower running costs compared to a gasoline-powered vehicle (think cheaper