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Types Of Gas A Hyundai Ioniq Takes (Hybrid and PHEV)

Types Of Gas A Hyundai Ioniq Takes (Hybrid and PHEV)

On this blog, we extensively research your queries about various automobiles. Today, we’ll look at the Hyundai Ioniq and see what kind of gasoline it needs. We looked through the owners’ manuals from 2017 onwards to find the answer. Here is a quick response:

All Hyundai Ioniqs manufactured between 2017 – 2022 take regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. There´s no difference in fuel requirements for the hybrid or plug-in versions of the Ioniq.

Using the right fuel is essential to get the best performance of your car. However, this doesn’t tell the whole story. Below, we will detail what kind of gasoline should and shouldn’t be used in the Ioniq. Furthermore, we´ll discuss this car’s fuel tank capacity and gas mileage. Read on!

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Infographic explaining the different fuel types for a Hyundai Ioniq

Fuel Requirements Based on Engine Type

The use of regular, unleaded, 87-octane gasoline is what´s recommended for all versions of the Hyundai Ioniq, as well as vehicles like the Elantra. However, remember that both the Hyundai Ioniq Electric and the newer Hyundai Ioniq 5 are pure electric vehicles that don´t require any form of gasoline.

Furthermore, we have to clarify that the use of premium gasoline (91-octane or higher) is not necessary for the Hyundai Ioniq. People often believe that premium gasoline will keep the engine cleaner and perform better.

This is only the case for engines that are designed to make use of premium gasoline. Furthermore, premium gasoline is most often used in sports cars or vehicles that tow heavy loads. Since the Ioniq does not fall into either of these categories, it´s best to take regular gasoline whenever you can.

Also, keep in mind that going below 87-octane is strictly advised against and will result in engine problems (more on that later).

What Type of Gasoline Can A Hyundai Ioniq Take?

Furthermore, different types of gasoline are and aren´t appropriate to use in your Ioniq. By using the right types of gas, you can avoid any unnecessary problems with your Ioniq. Below, we´ve outlined all these types so you know exactly what can and can´t be used.

Reformulated Gasoline

First, we have to talk about the use of reformulated gasoline. This is a type of gasoline that burns cleaner than non-reformulated gasoline. For this reason, it´s mandatory to use in some regions of the United States.

Hyundai Ioniqs, just like other Hyundai models, like the Hyundai Santa Fe or Hyundai Kona, among others, can run on reformulated gasoline just fine.

If you have the choice between these two types of gasoline, it´s best to go with reformulated gasoline since it doesn´t cost anything extra but does help the environment and the air quality in your region.

Gasoline/Oxygenated Blends or E-85

We also have to talk about the use of oxygenated blends of gasoline. Oxygenated blends of gasoline typically contain methanol or ethanol. These are bio-forms of fuel that burn cleaner than regular gasoline. However, there are strict rules surrounding the use of these oxygenates.

First of all, it´s important to clarify that methanol should never be used in any Hyundai Ioniq. Methanol is too much of a corrosive substance, and the internals of the Ioniq aren´t made to deal with this kind of fuel in any percentage.

On the other hand, ethanol can be used. All Ioniqs with a gasoline engine can take gasoline with a maximum percentage of 15% ethanol. This means both E10 and E15 are fine to use. However, E30, E50, and E85 (which is also referred to as flex-fuel) cannot be used, and doing so will result in damage that´s not covered by any form of warranty.

Addition of Cleaning Agents

The use of cleaning agents or octane boosters is something that you´ll hear about from time to time. Therefore, it´s good to know that Hyundai recommends against the use of aftermarket cleaning agents or octane boosters. This is because aftermarket cleaning agents often use silicones or metallics that will damage your engine’s fuel system and the internals.

Instead, Hyundai recommends the use of TOP TIER gasoline. TOP TIER retailers sell this type of gasoline. This group of retailers is an alliance that provides gasoline that contains all the suitable cleaning agents your car needs and in a larger quantity than what´s stated by law. You can find a TOP TIER gasoline retailer at toptiergas.com.

If you can´t find TOP TIER gasoline in your area, then Hyundai recommends using a bottle of its own additive every 7,500 miles. You can find the additive that´s recommended for your Ioniq at a local Hyundai dealership.

What If The Engine Makes A Knocking Noise?

If you hear a knocking noise coming from your engine, then it´s most likely the case you´ve used gasoline with a lower than recommended octane rating. Also, you could have used gasoline with a higher-than-recommended percentage of ethanol.

You must stop the vehicle immediately and call your dealer or mechanic if you hear a loud knocking noise from your engine, especially right after refilling. Your car needs to be towed away and drained from its gasoline, and your fuel filter will also need to be replaced.

Continuing to drive with a loud knocking noise will result in irreparable damage that is not covered by any warranty.

What’s The Gas Mileage Of The Hyundai Ioniq?

One of the main selling points of the Hyundai Ioniq is that all versions of this car are incredibly fuel efficient. That´s because all versions make use of an electric drivetrain in one way or another. Below, you´ll first see the MPG for the hybrid versions of the Ioniq.

DrivetrainCombined MPGCity MPGHighway MPG
1.6L (Hybrid, Blue version)595860
1.6L (Hybrid, Limited version)555457

However, things get even better when we look at the PHEV and the EV versions:

DrivetrainElectric only MPGeGasoline only MPG
1.6L PHEV11952
EV133

What Is The Tank Size Of A Hyundai Ioniq?

All Hyundai Ioniqs with a gasoline engine manufactured between 2017 – 2022 have a fuel tank capacity of 11.9 gallons or 45 liters.

Closing Thoughts


In conclusion, the Hyundai Ioniq, produced from 2017 to 2022, thrives on regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or above. Whether you own a hybrid or plug-in version, the fuel requirements remain consistent. To ensure optimal performance and longevity for your Ioniq, it’s imperative to use the recommended fuel. We delved into the specifics of its fuel compatibility, tank capacity, and mileage, offering you a comprehensive understanding of the Ioniq’s fuel dynamics. Always refer to your owner’s manual for precise information and safe driving!

If you’re looking for a new or used Hyundai in your state, check out our list of the largest Hyundai dealerships in every state.

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