The Hyundai Ioniq 6 Emerges as EV of the Year
Once again, car shoppers are immersed in the evaluation of the latest offerings in the electric vehicle (EV) market. After an intense week of meticulous assessment performed by Car and Driver, a Hyundai vehicle came out on top. Following the victory of the Ioniq 5 last year, its new sedan counterpart, the Ioniq 6, emerges as the clear winner this year.
While the Ioniq 6 benefits from sharing similarities with its sibling, the Ioniq 5, it goes beyond merely adorning the same platform and incrementing the model name. Although the designs of the two vehicles differ, the sleek sedan possesses the same eye-catching appeal as its angular hatchback counterpart. The sloping profile exhibits traces of the first-generation Mercedes CLS. At the same time Hyundai draws inspiration from the 1930s Stout Scarab, a design connection that may seem unlikely due to the nearly century-wide gap between the two vehicles. However, upon reviewers comparing images of the two, they realized that this connection is not merely an invention of the designers.
Beyond its distinctive shape, the Ioniq 6 boasts exceptional aerodynamics, achieving a remarkable drag coefficient as low as 0.22. The reviewers also appreciated that Hyundai introduced a dedicated electric sedan, rather than adding yet another mid-size crossover to the market, following the footsteps of the Polestar 2 and Tesla Model 3.
Underneath its sleek exterior, the Ioniq 6 harnesses the outstanding capabilities of the company’s E-GMP platform. Equipped with a rear-mounted motor generating either 149 or 225 horsepower (depending on the battery size) and 258 pound-feet of torque, or available with dual motors delivering a combined 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque, this vehicle delivers impressive performance. Most variants feature a 77.4-kWh battery pack. During Car and Driver’s EV of the Year test, the dual-motor Limited model achieved a range of 220 miles on the highway, with an EPA rating of 270 miles.
Furthermore, the Ioniq 6 offers even greater range projections. The single-motor Limited achieves an EPA-estimated range of 305 miles, while the dual-motor SE, equipped with 18-inch wheels, attains an impressive 316 miles. Additionally, this version achieves a combined 140 MPGe, surpassing the rear-wheel-drive Tesla Model 3’s 132 MPGe.
When it comes to recharging, the Ioniq 6’s 800-volt architecture enables remarkably fast charge times of up to 235 kilowatts, representing some of the quickest charging speeds observed among mainstream EVs.
While the dual-motor version impressively accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 4.3 seconds, the accelerator mapping may lend it a slightly less sporty feel compared to some other dual-motor EVs, such as the EV6 GT. The single-motor version with 225 horsepower accomplishes the same feat in 6.2 seconds. The Ioniq 6’s robust structure imparts unwavering composure, ensuring a comfortable ride even on uneven surfaces during our demanding test loop. The handling remains composed and stable during cornering, with the suspension exhibiting well-damped characteristics. Hyundai has also mastered brake responsiveness, providing a satisfying pedal feel, and offers convenient customization of lift-off regenerative braking through steering-wheel paddles, including the option to disable it entirely.
While it is fair to say that no automaker has fully mastered the art of the EV soundtrack, Hyundai’s efforts in this area are noteworthy. Nevertheless, personal preferences may vary, and the option to silence the artificial noise generator allows the Ioniq 6 to showcase its excellent sound isolation.
The Ioniq 6, not only excels as a well-crafted electric vehicle, but also stands out as a car that captivates us behind the wheel. Its exceptional execution places Hyundai’s E-GMP platform in the winner’s circle once again.
If you’re interested in this award-winning vehicle, check out our online new car inventory on our dealership website, Southern Team Hyundai. We sell a wide range of vehicles from the brand in different shapes and prices.
Once you find something that suits your particular style, chat with one of our representatives for more information.