Our verdict

The Ioniq’s three-pronged approach to car electrification is impressive, but this plug-in version feels like the weakest link. Like its siblings, the regular hybrid and the pure EV, it’s keenly priced and well equipped, but it’s rather slow compared with the Golf and has a boomy engine and an unsettled ride. That it can’t maintain pure-EV driving up moderate hills is disappointing, too.

The Golf is pricier in all buying situations, most notably as a company car. However, it’s worth the extra, because it’s more fun to drive and it happily tackles all road types on electric power alone, as well as being classier, roomier and more practical inside (but not the boot). It stands out as the better all-round choice for PHEV buyers.

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1st – Volkswagen Golf GTE

For Agile handling; comfortable ride; nippy handling; roomier seats

Against Less practical boot; pricier to buy and run; you’ll want to add some options

Rated 4 out of 5

Read our full Volkswagen Golf review

Find a great Volkswagen Golf deal

2nd – Hyundai Ioniq Plug-in

For More standard kit; cheaper to buy and run; great driving position

Against So-so performance; unsettled ride; cramped rear space

Rated 3 out of 5

Read our full Hyundai Ioniq review

Find a great Hyundai Ioniq deal

Specifications: Volkswagen Golf GTE

Engine 4cyl, 1395cc, petrol + electric motor

Gearbox 6-spd automatic

List price £32,135

Target Price £27,441

Power 201bhp @ 5000-6000rpm

Torque 258lb ft @ 1600-3500rpm

0-60mph 7.0sec

Top speed 138mph

Claimed fuel economy 156.9mpg

True MPG na

CO2 emissions 40g/km

Specifications: Hyundai Ioniq Plug-in

Engine 4cyl, 1580cc, petrol + electric motor

Gearbox 6-spd automatic

List price £29,295

Target Price £26,367

Power 139bhp @ 5700rpm

Torque 195lb ft @ 4000rpm

0-60mph 9.2sec

Top speed 111mph

Claimed fuel economy 257mpg

True MPG 51.8mpg

CO2 emissions 26g/km

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