Let’s face it: the era of fossil fuels is coming to an end. Whether you’re worried about the environment, want to save money, or simply accept that gas is a finite resource that needs to be replaced, you have to admit that the future belongs to vehicles with power sources other than just traditional internal combustion engines. If you’re looking for such a vehicle and you’re interested in a Hyundai, then you’re in luck since you have quite a few different options to choose from.
From all-electric models to hybrids and even an impressive hydrogen-powered SUV, there’s a great option for just about everyone in the Hyundai lineup. Today, I’m going to take you briefly through six of the best Hyundai vehicles for 2021 if you’re looking for a model with an alternative-fuel power source. Even if you’re not necessarily looking for a hybrid or Electric Vehicle (EV), these are still great choices that have a lot to offer.
#1 – The 2021 Ioniq Hybrid
Starting off with a fantastic hybrid hatchback, the 2021 Ioniq Hybrid has not been greatly changed from its 2020 model, but that’s just fine, considering it received a pretty impressive update last year. If you’re looking for a great four-door model that offers a spacious interior with a lot of room inside, without going all-in on a crossover or SUV, then a hatchback like this an excellent choice. There’s plenty of space inside for passengers or the cargo you need, and the rear hatchback makes it easier to get to your stuff than a sedan.
Hyundai brags about the Ioniq Hybrid being the most fuel-efficient car in America and looking at the specs on it, that’s hard to argue with. It has an impressive engine and hybrid motor system that offers a combined 139 hp for excellent overall performance. When it comes to fuel economy, it can get an estimated 57 MPG in the city and 59 MPG on the highway, with 58 MPG combined. That’s amazing efficiency and will definitely keep you on the road longer without stopping for gas.
Available features on the Ioniq Hybrid include some terrific luxury and technology options, including an available 10-inch Infotainment display and Harman Kardon premium sound system. Leather seating is available, with ambient lighting, a power tilt-and-slide sunroof, and a wireless charging pad. The 2021 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid is estimated to start at a price of $24,500 MSRP.
#2 – The 2021 Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid
If you’re looking for a model with a little more flexibility, but you like the overall look and options of the Ioniq Hybrid, then consider the Plug-In Hybrid version of the 2021 Hyundai Ioniq. Overall, it has a lot of the same standard and available features, giving you luxurious options inside and out. The major difference with this model, of course, is that it features a plug-in hybrid system rather than a standard hybrid engine.
The advantages of a plug-in are a bit of a trade-off with the Hyundai Ioniq, so it really depends on what you’re personally looking for. You lose a bit of fuel efficiency with the plug-in hybrid version, which can get up to an estimated 52 MPG combined city and highway driving, compared to an estimated 58 MPG combined for the standard hybrid. That being said, the Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid has an all-electric range of up to 29 miles and is easy to recharge. So, if you’re interested in a model that can help you run errands without using any gas at all, then this one is a great choice. The 2021 Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid will start at an estimated $28,000 MSRP.
#3 – The 2021 Ioniq Electric
The last of the three Ioniq models available from Hyundai is the 2021 Ioniq Electric, which is an all-electric version of this impressive hatchback. That means it has a similar overall design, with a spacious and luxurious interior, along with total EV performance. It’s a gorgeous little vehicle that runs entirely without gas and gives you tremendous freedom in where you want to go.
On a full charge, the 2021 Ioniq Electric gets an estimated 170 miles of full range, with an electric motor that generates 134 hp for a quick, sporty ride. Much like the other Ioniq models, this one is available with a 10-inch Infotainment display, Harman Kardon premium audio system, and a suite of fantastic safety features. A full charge at home takes about 6 hours to complete, while a DC Fast Charging station can provide about 80% of a full charge in less than an hour. The 2021 Hyundai Ioniq Electric is estimated to start at $34,500 MSRP.
#4 – The 2021 Sonata Hybrid
If you’re interested in more of a traditional sedan, but want an alternative-energy option, then check out the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The newest Sonata looks gorgeous, with a bold front grille and a sleek design that immediately captures the attention of everyone around. The Hybrid model is no exception, with available 17-inch wheels and an available solar roof panel that looks stunning and can deliver about 2 miles per day of driving powered by the sun.
The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid features an engine and motor that provides 192 hp combined, which makes it surprisingly powerful. It’s a slick ride that features a terrific safety package and available luxury features like a 10-inch Infotainment display, 12-inch digital driver cluster, wireless charging pad, and Bose premium sound system. In terms of fuel economy, it’s a great choice with up to an estimated 50 MPG in the city, 54 MPG on the highway, and 52 MPG combined fuel efficiency. Best of all, the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid starts at just $27,750 MSRP.
#5 – The 2021 Kona Electric
If you are looking for more interior space than even a hatchback can provide while still eliminating gas costs, then look no further than the 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric. This is an all-electric SUV with a sleek design that is incredibly fun to drive. The power supply for the Kona Electric provides 201 hp, and its bold look ensures it handles beautifully. Great safety features like a forward collision-avoidance assist system and blind-spot collision warning come standard, while leather seating and LED headlights are available options.
With the Kona Electric, you get an estimated 258 miles of range from a full charge. Charging is quick and simple. At home, you can fully charge the Kona Electric in about nine and a half hours, while an 80% charge is possible in less than an hour at a DC fast charger. The 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric starts at $37,390 MSRP.
#6 – The 2021 Nexo Fuel Cell
Finally, we have a unique offering in the Hyundai lineup: the 2021 Nexo Fuel Cell. Rather than a hybrid or EV model, this is a hydrogen-powered SUV that offers impressive performance and fuel efficiency. Its power supply delivers 161 hp for a fast and bold driving experience, and it can get an estimated 380 miles of range when fully fueled. In terms of overall efficiency, the Nexo Fuel Cell can get an estimated 65 MPGe in the city, 58 MPGe on the highway, and 61 MPGe combined.
One thing very much worth noting is that fuel cell, hydrogen-powered vehicles like this Nexo are not the right choice for everyone. At the moment, they are only sold in California here in the US since that’s the only state prepared for keeping these vehicles fueled. But, if that works for you, then this is a terrific option. The 2021 Hyundai Nexo Fuel Cell starts at $58,785 MSRP.
