After a week of testing the Hyundai Ioniq 6, it’s time to share our impressions of this new electric sedan that promises much for everyday use. From its launch in March 2023, Hyundai made a strong impression with this model inspired by the Prophecy EV concept. The Ioniq 6 stands out with its aerodynamic design and advanced technologies, as well as its impressive performance, making it a serious contender in the electric vehicle market.
Dimensions : Generous Proportions
Getting behind the wheel of the Ioniq 6, one is immediately struck by its imposing dimensions. With a length of 4,855 mm, a width of 1,880 mm, and a height of 1,495 mm, the sedan commands a presence on the road that doesn’t go unnoticed. Its 2,950 mm wheelbase maximizes interior space, providing exceptional comfort for all passengers. These generous dimensions translate to a spacious cabin and stable driving, even at high speeds.
Exterior Design : A Futuristic Silhouette
The exterior design of the Ioniq 6 is a true masterpiece of aerodynamics and style. Inspired by the streamline artistic movement of the 1930s, the car’s silhouette is both elegant and futuristic. The camera mirrors immediately catch the eye, replacing traditional mirrors and offering better visibility and enhanced safety. During our test, we appreciated the clarity and precision of the images displayed on the OLED screens inside the car. These screens, positioned where traditional mirrors would be, allow the driver to see blind spots with impressive clarity, even in bad weather or at night. A drag coefficient of 0.21, one of the lowest in the automotive industry, showcases the engineers’ meticulous work to optimize energy efficiency. Distinctive features like the LED Pixel headlights, integrated rear spoiler, and air curtains on the wheels not only beautify the vehicle but also improve its aerodynamic performance. This design aims to captivate and impress on the road.
Interior Design : A Technological Cocoon
The interior of the Ioniq 6 is a true cocoon of comfort and modernity. Once inside, you’re enveloped by a warm and high-tech ambiance. The interior architecture is user-centric, with an ergonomic control unit placed centrally to reduce distractions. The modular dashboard, featuring a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, offers excellent visibility and intuitive navigation. A notable innovation is the presence of screens on either side of the driver and passenger, displaying the images from the digital mirrors, greatly enhancing visibility. The dual-color ambient lighting allows for personalized interior atmospheres, creating a relaxing and pleasant space.
Ergonomics : Comfort and Ease of Use
The ergonomics of the Ioniq 6 are carefully designed to offer an intuitive and comfortable driving experience. Controls are centralized and easily accessible to avoid distractions for the driver. The floating center console provides practical storage spaces, although the door pockets are somewhat limited. The driving position is particularly comfortable, with front seats that can fully recline for a nap or relaxation break. The only drawback is the window switch placement on the center console, which can be confusing at first but becomes intuitive with use.
Powertrains : A Varied and Performant Range
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 offers a range of powertrains to meet the varied needs of drivers. The ‘long-range’ 77.4 kWh rear-wheel drive (RWD) version provides 168 kW of power and 350 Nm of torque, allowing for a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in 7.4 seconds. The dual-motor AWD configuration, which we tested, is also available, offering a combined power of 239 kW and 605 Nm of torque, with a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in 5.1 seconds. Energy consumption is a highlight of this model, with less than 14 kWh/100 km for the standard 53 kWh version, making it one of the most energy-efficient cars on the market.
Driving Experience : Smooth Ride
On the road, the Ioniq 6 proves to be a real pleasure to drive. The E-GMP platform provides optimal weight distribution and a low center of gravity, ensuring remarkable stability and superior driving comfort. During our week-long test, we drove on various types of roads, from highways to country roads, and the Ioniq 6 consistently offered a smooth and quiet ride. The sound insulation is excellent, with minimal road and wind noise even at high speeds. The digital mirrors also contribute to the car’s aerodynamics, reducing drag and thus improving energy efficiency. On highways, we noticed a reduction in wind noise compared to traditional mirrors, further enhancing the already excellent acoustic comfort of the Ioniq 6. However, it’s important to note that adapting to these mirrors might take some time for drivers used to conventional mirrors. Once this adaptation period is over, the advantages are numerous, including increased visibility and reduced blind spots. Semi-autonomous driving technologies, such as Highway Driving Assist 2, provide additional safety and comfort, especially on long trips.
Pricing in Belgium
In Belgium, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 starts at 47,499 euros for the RWD version, reaching up to 63,499 euros for the AWD version without options. This pricing positions the Ioniq 6 directly against models like the Tesla Model 3 and the Kia EV6. Compared to these competitors, the Ioniq 6 stands out with its advantageous value for money, especially considering its energy performance and advanced technologies.
Conclusion : A Sedan That Promises for the Future
After a week of driving the Hyundai Ioniq 6, we are convinced that this electric sedan represents a significant advancement. It stands out with its sophisticated aerodynamic design, remarkably low energy consumption, and spacious and durable interior comfort. The ultra-fast charging capability, going from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes, is a major asset, especially for long journeys. Advanced technologies, such as OTA updates and semi-autonomous driving aids, add a modern touch. Although the infotainment system may require an adaptation period and the trunk size is limited, these minor inconveniences do not significantly detract from the many advantages of this vehicle. The Ioniq 6 offers an exceptional driving experience, effectively competing with models like the Tesla Model 3 or the BYD Seal from the Chinese brand. Hyundai has successfully created a vehicle that perfectly meets the needs of modern drivers while laying the foundation for more sustainable and connected mobility.
