2020 Hyundai IONIQ Lineup Gets a Proper Mid-cycle Update

The redesigned and upgraded 2020 Hyundai IONIQ lineup made its North American debut today at the 2019 Los Angeles Auto Show, offering a fresh look, additional infotainment technology and new Hyundai SmartSense active safety features and driving assistance systems.

The biggest improvement was made to the IONIQ Electric in the form of a 38.3-kWh battery with 36 percent more energy capacity and a range that now tops 274 km (instead of just 200 km), beating the 241 km achieved by the Nissan LEAF.

Output increases from 118 hp to 134 hp, while the 7.2-kW onboard charger (previously 6.6 kW) makes it possible to charge the battery to 80 percent in 54 minutes when using a 100-kW fast-charging station.

Photo: Hyundai

There are no changes to the IONIQ Hybrid and IONIQ electric plus (plug-in hybrid) models as far as the powertrain is concerned. The former remains the most fuel-efficient non-plug-in car in Canada, while the latter offers a zero-emission driving range of more than 40 km.

The pair does add Adjustable Regenerative Braking in Eco mode, allowing drivers to select from different intensity levels via the paddle shifters. In Sport mode, the paddles act as manual shifters. Meanwhile, the IONIQ Electric takes a cue from the Kona Electric by adopting one-pedal driving capability. You can stop the car by simply holding onto the left paddle shift lever with often no need to engage the brake pedal.

Photo: Hyundai

When it comes to safety, all redesigned 2020 IONIQ models are equipped with a comprehensive Hyundai SmartSense technology package. This cutting-edge driver assistance system constantly monitors the environment around the car alerting drivers to potential hazards while on the road. It includes standard Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, High Beam Assist and Driver Attention Warning.

Highway Driving Assist and Lane Following Assist can be added to make long trips less stressful and more comfortable.

Hyundai designers updated the hybrid and plug-in hybrid models with a new mesh-type grille, while the electric variant sports a distinctive new pattern on the closed grille. The front and rear bumpers, wheel designs and side sill mouldings are new, as well. All-LED lights are available along with two new body colours—Stellar Silver and Electric Shadow.

Photo: Hyundai

Inside, the list of changes includes a new upper and lower instrument panel, new console upper cover, touch-sensitive heating and cooling controls, customizable ambient lighting and piano key controls. A new eight-inch Display Audio infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto comes standard, while a 10.25-inch display with navigation is optional.

Most trim levels get integrated Blue Link connectivity services so drivers can remotely start and stop the vehicle, lock or unlock the doors, schedule and monitor charging, and control air conditioning via a smartphone app.

Canadian pricing for the 2020 Hyundai IONIQ lineup will be announced at a later date.

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