Hyundai reveals Prius rival

Electrified Ioniq hatch set for Australian debut.

January 8 2016

David McCowen

Hyundai has revealed its Toyota Prius rivaling Ioniq hybrid. Photo: Supplied

Updated: Hyundai has released key details surrounding its Ioniq family of hybrid and electric cars.

Hyundai has released details surrounding its new Ioniq hybrid.

The South Korean brand has not confirmed fuel economy figures – or even shown the front end of the car – though it has given more than a glimpse into its upcoming rival to Toyota's Prius.

The car has been engineered to handle conventional hybrid, plug-in hybrid and fully-electric drivetrains that set it apart from rival models.

Hyundai's Australian arm has confirmed that the regular hybrid model will arrive locally in the second half of 2016, and that it is studying the feasibility of plug-in hybrid or fully-electric versions.

Inside the new Hyundai Ioniq hybrid. Photo: Supplied

The manufacturer claims its hybrid hatch "was created with dynamic ride and handling at its core" – something Toyota also says it targeted with the latest Prius.

The Ioniq offers 103.6kW of combined power through a 77kW 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine assisted by a 32kW permanent magnet electric motor. Hyundai differs from Toyota by pairing the Ioniq's powerplant with a newly developed six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission as opposed to a continuously variable transmission. The newcomer also uses a modern lithium ion polymer battery as opposed to the older Nickel-Metal Hydride unit preferred by Toyota.

Hyundai has augmented the hatchback's steel chassis with lightweight aluminium for components such as the bonnet, boot and suspension elements.

The car's interior has a similar layout to the latest Tucson SUV, as well as a a digital instrument cluster and electric blue highlights throughout the seats and dashboard. Smartphone users will benefit from Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

A 7-inch driver's instrument display provides drivetrain and efficiency updates. Safety is accounted for by a driver aid system that includes autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assistance, blind spot detection and rear cross alert systems.

Full pricing and specifications will be revealed closer to the vehicle's Australian launch later this year.