Hyundai launched the Ioniq 6 globally in July 2022. While it isn’t a big seller in the U.S. (a little over 12,000 units were delivered here in 2024), it remains a key option for buyers who prefer a sedan over an SUV. During our time with the vehicle, its design and futuristic, comfy interior made a lasting impression on us.
A major facelift is currently in the road-testing stage, and the improved sedan is expected to arrive in U.S. dealerships as a 2026 model later this year. Here are six key changes that we expect in the refreshed 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 6:
1. Rehashed Front & Rear
The updated Ioniq 6 will retain its streamlined shape, but we observe significant changes to the front and rear fascias in test prototypes. The facelifted model features split headlamps similar to the Kona EV. New daytime running lights take their position below a squared-off hood. The front bumper appears to adopt design elements for a conventional look. At the rear, prototypes carry revised LED taillights retaining the horizontal light bar, but the thick vertical pixels on the bumper look to have been deleted.
2. Improved Battery & Range
The current 77.4 kWh battery, offering 342 miles (EPA-rated), is expected to be upgraded to an 84 kWh pack. This switch already powers the 2025 Ioniq 5 and is expected to boost range by around 5%, possibly hitting 360 miles. The 8.4% increase in energy density is achieved through optimized cell design and applying new high-capacity materials.
3. Native NACS Port
Owners of the 2026 Ioniq 6 will be able to use Tesla’s Supercharger network without hassle, as the car is set to gain a native NACS port, besides the CCS. The 2025 Ioniq 5 became the first Hyundai to be delivered from the factory, ready to plug into Tesla’s fast chargers without needing an adapter.
All-new or refreshed Hyundai EVs will come exclusively with a NACS port beginning in Q4 2024.
From the new Ioniq 5’s announcement on September 3, 2024
The native NACS port should enable 10-80% fast charging (150 kW) in about 30 minutes. Level 2 charging should take around 7.5 hours.
4. Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
The standout feature would be the new Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC). This infotainment, unlike the current AVN 5.0 Wide infotainment system, has wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, OTA updates, and about 30 inches of display area.
5. Revised Dashboard & Steering Wheel
Inside, the facelifted Ioniq 6 is set to receive upgrades from the latest Ioniq 5 (shown above) where the steering wheel switches from two spokes to three. Seat HVAC should get physical buttons, and a new ‘Sync’ feature should be added to the air-conditioning panel.
6. High-Performance Ioniq 6 N
The MY2026 Ioniq 6 lineup won’t be only about better batteries and screens. Hyundai’s performance arm has been working on a ‘hot’ variant which promises to set new benchmarks for the company.
The new Ioniq 6 lineup will include a powerful N variant. The dual-motor setup will produce around 650 hp, surpassing the Ioniq 5 N as Hyundai’s quickest EV. Sporting performance-focused styling, this variant will target the Tesla Model 3 Performance. Pricing for the top-spec model may approach USD 68,000.
Featured image: TopElectricSUV’s illustration of the Ioniq 6 facelift
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
