While sales might not yet reflect it, hybrid and electric cars are generating more and more enthusiasm in Canada, most notably in Quebec, Ontario and British Columbia. There is invariably strong interest in any articles we publish about them, in fact. As well, every year sees more models being offered on the market.
For this new comparison, we decided to pit the second-generation Chevrolet Volt, once voted 2017 Auto123.com Green Vehicle of the Year and still one of the most popular choices in this segment, against the all-new Hyundai IONIQ electric plus (which is NOT fully electric; don’t let the name fool you). Both of these 5-door compact sedans run on plug-in hybrid powertrains and thus offer a certain EV range. Both are also well-equipped, particularly in terms of technology and safety. But which one best fits your daily transportation needs, and your budget for that matter? Read on for practical info that should help you with your decision-making!
For starters, here are the straight-up numbers, taken in part from Natural Resources Canada’s Energuide:
2018 Chevrolet Volt – Technical specifications – Winter-driving review
LT - $38,995
Premier - $43,095
* Purchase incentives of $14,000 in Ontario, $8,000 in Quebec and $5,000 in British Columbia
Strong points
- - Battery twice as powerful for twice the EV range
- - Trendy looks and aerodynamic lines
- - More futuristic dashboard and instrumentation
- - Well-adapted to winter in terms of heating and defrosting capabilities
- - Better acceleration thanks to the ample torque
Weak points
- - Higher price, even with the government incentives
- - Slower to charge (due to the larger battery)
- - Higher fuel consumption once the battery is out of charge
- - Trunk volume (300 litres) heavily impacted by the battery
- - Less spacious interior, and a slightly less comfortable ride
2018 Hyundai IONIQ electric plus – Technical specifications – Winter-driving review
SE - $31,999
Limited - $36,499
* Purchase incentives of $8,095 in Ontario, $4,000 in Quebec and $2,500 in British Columbia
Strong points
- Better total range
- Quicker to charge
- More refined looks
- Large (650 litres), very practical trunk
- Standard heated rear seats
Weak points
- EV range half as long
- More-conservative interior layout
- Seats lack lateral support
- Access to the rear seats affected by the sloping roofline
- Rear visibility needs improvement
Auto123.com’s choice: 2018 Hyundai IONIQ electric plus