The Ioniq 6 packs a relatively average 77.4-kWh battery, yet it provides excellent range thanks to the aerodynamic body.
Hyundai releases detailed specifications for the much-awaited Ioniq 6 “electrified streamliner.” The sleek EV will run on the same 800V E-GMP platform, providing it with best-in-class charging speeds.
During the release event, Jaehoon Chang (President and CEO, Hyundai Motor Company) stated, “IONIQ 6 is the next ambitious step forward in Hyundai Motor’s strategy to accelerate its transition to electrification and into a position as a global leader in EVs.”
The Ioniq 6 looks sleek and uniquely different from the mainstream electric sedans due to its streamlined design, elegant slopes, and slippery bodywork. Unsurprisingly, aerodynamic drag is very low at 0.21 Cd, further improved by the active air flaps, wheel gap reducers, and an elliptical wing-inspired spoiler. Other key elements comprise flush-mounted door handles and the availability of digital side mirrors (depending on the market). Although different design-wise from the blocky Ioniq 5, the “6” retains the pixelated headlights and taillights, giving it a retro charm.
The Ioniq 6 measures 191.1 inches long, 74 inches wide, and 58.9 inches tall, coupled with a 116 inches long wheelbase. Hence, it falls between the Tesla Model 3 and Model S in terms of size. Customers can choose between 18-inch and 20-inch wheels, with the former offering a better range and the latter looking much better.
The Ioniq 6 is undoubtedly a looker, but how does it fare in terms of range? Well, quite favorably, even when compared to Tesla. The base model will feature a relatively small 53-kWh battery pack and a rear-mounted electric motor. Thanks to the streamlined body, the energy consumption will be excellent at 14 kWh for every 62 miles (100 km) on the WLTP cycle, translating to a 235-mile range. This might not sound very impressive, but remember that the battery is one of the smallest in its category. Unfortunately, Hyundai didn’t release power figures for this model, but we expect it to be around the 215 HP mark.
However, the 77.4-kWh battery pack variant seems much more interesting, as it provides a 379-mile (610 km) range on the WLTP cycle in RWD form. Although the EPA range will be lower, it should still beat most of the competition and even be competitive against some gas cars. The long-range model will also be available in dual-motor AWD trim with 320 hp (239 kW) and 446 lb-ft (605 Nm) of torque, enabling a 0-62 mph time of 5.1 seconds. However, the recent RN22e concept is a sneak peek into a high-performance 570+ hp variant arriving later.
The Ioniq 6 will support both 400-V and 800-V charging. The latter offers ultra-fast 350-kW speeds that can charge the EV from 10-80% in just 18 minutes. And that’s not very long, particularly because the electric sedan has a spacious cabin with available Relaxation Comfort Seats.
Furthermore, the interior stands out not with its upholstery or embroidery but with transparent accents allowing ambient light to flow through. The dual color combo with six pre-installed themes and 64 additional colors ensures perfect lighting at all times and looks very synthwave-like. Meanwhile, we see a centrally located 12-inch digital instrument cluster and 12-inch infotainment with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Buyers can also opt for an eight-speaker Bose sound system for a better sound experience.
Hyundai also employed a variety of driver aid and safety features, such as Highway Driving Assist 2, Smart Cruise Control, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist.
Overall, the Ioniq 6 promises to be a complete package and should trouble the likes of the Tesla Model 3 and Polestar 2. Hyundai didn’t disclose pricing, but we expect it to be more approachable than its direct competition. Production starts this year, but the first examples will reach American dealers early next year.
Gallery: Hyundai Ioniq 6
