Update: ‘Price & Release date’ section updated.
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 is yet another vehicle from the Korean carmaker that is set to leave a lasting impression. Here’s everything we know about Hyundai’s next-gen electric sedan, one that competes with the Tesla Model 3 and the Polestar 2 in the United States.
Design
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 is a mid-size sedan with distinct proportions (like the Sonata). Its silhouette harks back to the design of the Prophecy concept. The production car has an emotional-looking and minimalist front-end with a simplistic bumper and curvy headlamps. In contrast, the rear-end is visibly bold and aggressive with an elliptical wing-inspired spoiler with a winglet, a striking full-width tail lamp, and sports car-like prominent bumper with separation traps on both sides.
Overall, the showroom-bound car is pretty close to the Prophecy concept, and full credit to Hyundai’s design team led by Sangyup Lee. The Ioniq 6 is also the first Hyundai to feature a newly designed ‘H’ badge at the front and rear.
Sophisticated digital lights
The Ioniq 6 features Parametric Pixel lights in its headlamps, rear combination lamps, front lower sensors, and the high-mounted stop lamp integrated into the rear wing.
The rear wing of the Ioniq 6 improves its aerodynamic efficiency, resulting in more range and better road manners. Compared to that of the Prophecy concept, it carries a slightly different and simpler design for the integrated third brake light, as seen in the picture below. Hyundai has used two-part tail lamps on the Ioniq 6. The horizontal upper rear light is the tail light and the vertical lower rear lights are a combination of the fog lights (red part) and reverse lights (transparent part).
Aerodynamic measures
Hyundai refers to the Ioniq 6 as an “Electrified Streamliner,” emphasizing its streamlined design. The South Korean electric sedan has clean lines and a highly aerodynamic profile. The car’s sloping roofline adds to a sleek coupe-like design. However, the impressive aerodynamics of the Ioniq 6 go beyond just its slippery roofline.
The Ioniq 6 takes inspiration from the 1947 Stout Scarab, Phantom Corsair, and Saab Ursaab, which were highly aerodynamic cars back in time. Hyundai designers applied some learnings from even the Supermarine Spitfire fighter plane. That’s how the winglet on the side of the rear spoiler took shape.
The Ioniq 6 was enhanced in the wind tunnel, where it faced winds of up to 200 km/h (124 mph). For the rear spoiler and several other aerodynamic measures, Hyundai tested about 70 different options there. The wind tunnel testing enabled the application of an active air flap on the front bumper.
The Ioniq 6 features wheel air curtains, wheel gap reducers, separation traps, and wheel deflectors as well. Its drag-reducing measures go even underneath the body. The bottom of the car has been fully covered to improve airflow around the car. The air flowing from the front is smoothly directed to a diffuser located under the rear bumper.
Jinhyuck Chang, Head of Aerodynamic Development Team, Hyundai, says the Ioniq 6 has nature-inspired design principles. Notably, designers took inspiration from the shape of the peregrine falcon during high-speed dives for hunting, where it reaches speeds of up to 390 km/h (242 mph). Thanks to the coupe-style roofline, a low nose, active air flaps (front), and wheel gap reducers, and various other aero measures, the Ioniq 6 has an ultra-low drag coefficient – 0.21 Cd.
Interior
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 has a cocoon-shaped interior with a flat floor, a sleek dashboard featuring up to four screens, a compact two-spoke steering wheel with the 4-dot Interactive Pixel Lights, and a bridge-type center console. The dual display setup for the (12-inch) digital cluster and (12-inch) infotainment display is different from the Ioniq 5, featuring slimmer bezels and a more appealing frame.
The doors almost look like they’re of a concept car, as they have no buttons, providing more storage. Amping up the fanciness is a Dual Color Ambient Lighting system that allows users to choose from a range of 64 colors and six dual-color themes.
To give the driver a more engaging driving experience, there’s a feature called ‘Electric Active Sound Design (e-ASD).’ A driving sound reminiscent of a spacecraft passing through a wormhole plays through speakers as per the speed, the torque state of the motor, and the driver’s willingness to accelerate. The driver can accelerate its volume in three steps. Another Hyundai-first feature in the Ioniq 6 is ‘Speed Sync Lighting,’ which alters the brightness of the interior lightning in the front seats according to the speed. These contribute in lending the Ioniq 6 a unique character.
Roomy rear seating
Compared to a similar-sized ICE sedan, the Ioniq 6 offers more interior space, because there’s no transmission tunnel and the mechanical components are fewer. The E-GMP platform (detailed in another section) optimizes space brilliantly as it provides short overhangs and a large wheelbase, opening up acres of room in the interior.
The rear seats offer generous amounts of space. The backrest is sharply reclined, and there’s plenty of legroom as well. The window area is large, which could amplify the sense of space, and there’s also the rear quarter glass which lets more light inside the cabin. There’s no transmission tunnel, so the floor is flat. However, we have to wait for the press drives to see if rear passengers would sit with their knees high up or whether there would be amply under-thigh support—remember that the battery is positioned between the axles, which raises the floor height.
What’s more, there are grilled pockets behind the backrests to store small items, vertical air vents at the rear, and two USB charging ports. There’s also an armrest in the center, and it only protrudes outwards by a few millimeters, so the Ioniq 6 should seat three abreast at the rear.
OTA updates
The Ioniq 6 supports over-the-air (OTA) software updates. It is possible to improve the car’s controllers for electric devices, battery, autonomous driving, and more as well as update maps and media software conveniently from home.
Interior colors
There are four interior color schemes for the Ioniq 6:
- Dark gray with light gray
- Dark olive green with light gray
- Black with pale brown
- Black
Safety
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 comes with a wide range of Hyundai SmartSense ADAS features. Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2), Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control (NSCC), Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Junction Crossing, Lane-Changing Oncoming, Lane-Changing Side, and Evasive Steering Assist (FCA-JC, FCA-LO, and FCA w/ ESA, and FCA-LS), and Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA) are some of the key features here.
The Ioniq 6 is Hyundai’s first model to feature an Intelligent Front-lighting System (IFS). High-beams, while necessary in extremely low visibility, can be dangerous for oncoming vehicles. IFS is Hyundai’s terminology for an anti-glare function that can precisely control the direction and the intensity of the high-beam. It can selectively turn off the LEDs that would create dazzle for the driver of an oncoming vehicle.
IFS is basically a further evolution of High Beam Assist (HBA). HBA completely shuts off the high-beam lights, while IFS can partially turn them off, which is comparatively safer. Do note that Hyundai hasn’t announced this feature in Europe or the U.S. yet.
Autonomous driving & parking
Driving
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 is available with Highway Driving Assist 2, the company’s Level 2 autonomous driving system. HDA 2 keeps the set distance from the vehicle ahead at the set speed. The car remains centered in the lane, even through a curve. If another car driving on the side approaches the vehicle closely, the path is automatically adjusted to avoid danger. Automatic lane changing is also possible, by giving a turn signal, but only when driving above a certain speed. Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA) ensures the car stays in the zone’s speed limit.
At a later stage, the Ioniq 6 could get Highway Driving Pilot (HDP), which is Hyundai’s upcoming Level 3 autonomous driving feature. With conditional automated driving, the EV can keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead and maintain its position in the lane all by itself.
Like HDA 2, HDP only works on highways. The driver has to remain conscious and be aware of the surrounding environment at all times, as the vehicle may ask them to take back manual control in case of feature failure or limit situation. It performs minimum risk maneuver when it asks but the driver does not take over the driving functions. In case of an imminent collision risk, HDP tries to maneuver the vehicle out of it.
HDP uses Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), various AI systems, and onboard sensors that gather extensive data regarding the vehicle’s surroundings. LIDAR is a crucial component of autonomy. As per a report from The Korea Economic Daily, Hyundai will install LIDAR sensors on all Level 3 cars.
Parking
Hyundai has equipped the Ioniq 6 with Remote Smart Parking Assistance 2 (RSPA 2), which allows customers to remotely park it and exit a parking spot. RSPA 2 works for parallel, perpendicular, and diagonal parking.
Platform
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 sits on Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP platform, which is different from the 400-volt architecture that underpins HMG’s conversion BEVs like the Kona Electric and the Niro Electric. E-GMP supports 800 volts, resulting in faster charging times.
E-GMP models also offer bi-directional charging. The platform’s Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU) enables the Vehicle to Load (V2L) function, HMG’s terminology for two-way charging.
Specifications
Dimensions
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 measures 191.1 in. in length, 74.0 in. in width, and 58.9 in. in height. The coupe-style electric sedan has a long wheelbase of 116.1 in. Thanks to the E-GMP’s space efficiency, Hyundai’s own Sonata (wheelbase: 111.8 in.) is no match to the Ioniq 6 in terms of interior space.
Tires
Hyundai uses N’FERA AU7 EV and N’FERA SPORT EV tires sourced from homegrown brand Nexen Tire on the 2023 Ioniq 6. N’FERA AU7 EV are premium all-season tires that offer reduced noise, thanks to an optimized arrangement between pattern blocks and the application of multi-sequence. The company has applied an optimized compound on these tires, significantly improving fuel economy and wear.
N’FERA SPORT EV tires offer good performance on wet and dry roads while securing the best drainage space. By using a grip-specific compound, Nexen Tire has increased the grip and braking power. Optimizing the pattern design has led to great enhancements in high-speed driving stability and handling performance.
Performance & Range
Hyundai offers the Ioniq 6 in the U.S. in three power-electric configurations: standard-range RWD, long-range RWD, and long-range AWD.
Standard Range RWD
The Ioniq 6 standard-range RWD has a single motor producing 149 hp and 258 lb.-ft. of torque. It uses a 53.0 kWh battery pack which helps deliver a range of 367 km (228 miles) in South Korea. The EPA-est. range figure in the U.S. will be slightly different.
Long Range RWD
The Ioniq 6 long-range RWD has a more powerful rear motor which is tuned to produce 225 hp and 258 lb.-ft. of torque. Another upgrade in this variant is a bigger, 77.4 kWh battery pack that gives it an EPA-est. range of up to 361 miles, which is truly impressive!
Long Range AWD
The Ioniq 6 long-range AWD which uses two motors is at the top of the variant chart. It makes 320 hp of power and 446 lb.-ft. of torque, and takes less than 5 seconds for a 0-60 mph sprint. It has the same, 77.4 kWh battery pack as the Ioniq 6 long-range AWD variant. It can travel up to 316 miles (EPA-est.) on a full charge.
Charging (incl. Plug & Charge)
Based on the E-GMP, the Ioniq 6 features a 400V/800V multi-high-speed charging system, which allows charging with a 400V fast-charger as well as an 800-volt ultra-fast charger. With an 800-volt ultra-fast charger, it takes just 18 minutes to charge the battery pack from 10 to 80% SoC.
The Ioniq 6 is the Hyundai electric car that supports the Plug and Charge (PnC) function. V2L is available, and it allows customers to power electronics and appliances using the energy stored in the battery pack at up to 3.5 kW.
Electrify America
Ioniq 6 owners in the U.S. get two years of unlimited 30-minute free charging sessions at Electrify America’s DC fast chargers, which have a peak output of up to 350 kW. Electrify America has 800 charging stations with 3,479 fast chargers and 116 Level 2 chargers. On March 15, 2023, it opened its first charging station in Hawaii, expanding its network to 47 states. It plans to add two more states and the District of Columbia in the future to its locations.
Hyundai has its own charging network called ‘Hi-Charger (하이차저)’ in South Korea. It could establish a similar charging network in the U.S. in the future, OIabisi Boyle, vice president of product planning and mobility strategy, Hyundai Motor North America (HMMA), revealed during an Ioniq 6 drive event, Wards Auto reported on March 27, 2023. The U.S. charging network, if introduced, would be in partnership with another company, not fully owned and run by HMMA, Boyle added.
| Aspect | Hyundai Ioniq 6 Specification |
| Length | 191.1 in. |
| Width | 74.0 in. |
| Height | 58.9 in. |
| Wheelbase | 116.1 in. |
| Wheels | 18 in. (SE)/20 in. (SEL)/20 in. (Limited) |
| Tires | 225/55R18 (SE) / 245/40R20 (SEL) / 245/40R20 (Limited) |
| Luggage Capacity | 11.2 cu. ft. |
| Front Trunk (Frunk) Capacity | 0.4 cu. ft. |
| Headroom (w/o sunroof) | 38.7 in. (front)/40.2 in. (rear) |
| Headroom (w/ sunroof) | 36.8 in. (front)/38.3 in. (rear) |
| Legroom (practical) | 42.3 in. (front)/39.2 in. (rear) |
| Legroom (maximum) | 45.4 in. (front)/34.7 in. (rear) |
| Shoulder Room | 58.0 in. (front)/57.3 in. (rear) |
| Hip Room | 55.2 in. (front)/51.1 in. (rear) |
| Power (SR RWD/LR RWD/LR AWD) | 149 hp/225 hp/320 hp |
| Torque (SR RWD/LR RWD/LR AWD) | 258 lb.-ft./258 lb.-ft./446 lb.-ft. |
| Battery Pack (SR RWD/LR RWD/LR AWD) | 53.0 kWh/77.4 kWh/77.4 kWh |
| 0-60 mph Acceleration Time | <5 seconds in long-range AWD configuration |
| Top Speed | 115 mph |
| EPA-est. Range | SR RWD – TBA LR RWD – 361 miles (SE 18″ wheels)/305 miles (SEL/Limited 20″ wheels) LR AWD – 316 miles (SE 18″ wheels)/270 miles (SEL/Limited 20″ wheels) |
| EPA-est. Energy Consumption | SR RWD – TBA LR RWD – 140 MPGe (SE 18″ wheels)/170 MPGe (SEL/Limited 20″ wheels) LR AWD – 121 MPGe (SE 18″ wheels)/103 MPGe (SEL/Limited 20″ wheels) |
| Maximum AC Charging Power | 10.9 kW |
| Lowest AC Charging Time (Up to 80% SoC) | 5 hours 20 minutes (SR RWD)/6 hours 55 minutes (LR RWD)/6 hours 55 minutes (LR AWD) |
| Lowest Fast charging Time (10-80% SoC) | 18 minutes |
| Curb Weight | 3,935 lbs. (SR RWD)/4,222 – 4,376 lbs. (LR RWD)/4,462 – 4,616 (LR AWD) |
| Gross Weight | 4,894 lbs. (SR RWD)/5,313 lbs. (LR RWD)/5,556 (LR AWD) |
Production
Made in Asan, South Korea
The Ioniq 6 is manufactured at Hyundai’s Asan plant in South Korea. The state-of-the-art facility is among the largest in Korea and has served as a model for Hyundai’s overseas plants.
U.S. Production
Hyundai Motor Group will invest USD 7.4 billion in America by 2025, and a sizeable chunk will go into electrification. Production of HMG’s EVs in the U.S. started with the Genesis Electrified GV70. The model rolls out of Hyundai Motor’s Montgomery factory in Alabama.
In H1 2025, HMG will start manufacturing EVs in the U.S. at the newly constructed factory in Bryan County, Georgia. This production site will be the company’s first dedicated EV plant worldwide. It will have a battery manufacturing facility as well, established through a strategic partnership. The new EV assembly plant and battery manufacturing facility will entail an investment of approximately USD 5.54 billion. The former will have an annual capacity of 300,000 units. Future models HMG makes in the U.S. may include the Hyundai Ioniq 6 and Hyundai Ioniq 7.
Price & Release date
Prices of the Hyundai Ioniq 6 in the U.S. start at USD 41,600 and go up to USD 56,100. A standard destination fee of USD 1,115 is extra. To beat the recent Tesla Model 3 price cuts, Hyundai has launched new schemes. The company offers USD 5,000 retail bonus cash in the SE Standard Range, SE, and SEL grades and USD 2,000 dealer choice cash in the Limited trim.
The Ioniq 6 is available widely at U.S. dealerships. We’ve seen it in stock at Gresham, Oregon-based Ron Tonkin Hyundai, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania-based Freysinger Hyundai, Portland, Oregon-based Dick Hannah Hyundai of Portland, Wexford, Pennsylvania-based Wright Hyundai, and many other dealerships, through their websites.
Hyundai started delivering the Ioniq 6 in the U.S. in March 2023. In the first month, it sold just 222 units. In April, May, June, and July, as supply increased, it shipped 890, 971, 1,162, and 1,745 units. Sales have gradually improved over the months, but it seems that availability hasn’t normalized. In fact, Hyundai clearly states on its consumer website that the Ioniq 6’s inventory is “extremely limited.”
The closest competitor to the Hyundai Ioniq 6 is the Tesla Model 3, the prices of which start at USD 40,240. In 2024, the VW ID.7 will become another alternative to the Ioniq 6 in the U.S.
| Configuration | Power | EPA-est. Range | Price |
| SE RWD Standard Range | 149 hp | 240 miles | USD 41,600 |
| SE RWD Long Range | 225 hp | 361 miles | USD 45,500 |
| SE AWD Long Range | 320 hp | 316 miles | USD 49,000 |
| SEL RWD | 225 hp | 305 miles | USD 47,700 |
| SEL AWD | 320 hp | 270 miles | USD 51,200 |
| Limited RWD | 225 hp | 305 miles | USD 52,600 |
| Limited AWD | 320 hp | 270 miles | USD 56,100 |
TopElectricSUV says
The Ioniq 6 is the sleekest, most high-tech, and greenest sedan Hyundai has brought to the market. Significantly more spacious than gas-powered models like Hyundai’s own Sonata, the Ioniq 6 is comparable and in many aspects appears better than Tesla’s Model 3. It’s priced well, too, and now, its success will depend on a stable supply. The Tesla Model 3, which is much cheaper and eligible for federal tax credits, is still a more appealing pick in the segment in many aspects, though.
Also See: 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 6 N: Can it challenge the Tesla Model 3 Performance?
Hyundai Ioniq 6 FAQs
What is the expected Ioniq 6 price & competitor list?
The Ioniq 6’s prices in the U.S. start at USD 41,600. The Tesla Model 3, Polestar 2 & VW ID.7 would be its rivals.
What is the Hyundai Ioniq 6 range?
The electric sedan delivers an EPA-est. range of 361 miles, with 80 percent charging achievable in about 18 minutes.
What is the Ioniq 6 release date in the U.S.?
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 is available at U.S. dealerships now.
Featured Image Source: Hyundai
An automobile engineer by qualification, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005 and reviewed electric vehicles since 2008. In my 15 years in the online automotive publishing, I’ve edited around 35,000 articles.
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