Forget the rumble of a V8 – Hyundai’s newest electric rocket, the Ioniq 6 N, might just be the most thrilling electric car to drive right now. This sleek sedan takes everything excellent about its boxier sibling, the Ioniq 5 N, and elevates it with even sharper handling, a more refined ride, and an intriguing blend of simulated engine noise that surprisingly works.
A Driver’s EV That Doesn’t Compromise:
Driving the Ioniq 6 N is a revelation. While electric cars are often praised for instant torque and seamless acceleration, this Hyundai feels truly engaging – something you don’t always associate with EVs. The suspension has been meticulously tuned to offer exceptional grip and stability without sacrificing comfort. It glides effortlessly over rough patches while cornering with an almost unnatural confidence that belies its low center of gravity and wide track.
The secret sauce? Hyundai calls it a “stroke-sensing Electronically Controlled Suspension (ECS)” system, but the real magic lies in the detail: upgraded axle stiffness, precise steering, dampers that work wonders to quell body roll, and a revised rear wing for even better aerodynamic stability.
More Than Just Straight-Line Speed:
Yes, the Ioniq 6 N rockets from 0-62 mph in a blistering 3.2 seconds thanks to its two electric motors pushing out a combined 641 horsepower. But this isn’t just about raw acceleration figures. Hyundai has also tweaked its “N-eShift” system, mimicking the feel of multiple gears with paddle shifters and even programmed in subtle engine noises to match each simulated gear change – it’s an impressive feat that adds a new dimension to driving enjoyment.
While electric cars often lack the auditory feedback we crave from traditional engines, Hyundai doesn’t completely abandon the concept here. They have meticulously crafted what they call “an improved sound” through “meticulous acoustic fine-tuning.” It’s noticeable and distinct – not just artificial white noise but a synthesized soundtrack that echoes engine revving and adds pops and bangs when you lift off the throttle. This might seem gimmicky, but it actually works surprisingly well.
Range That Keeps Pace With Your Enthusiasm:
The Ioniq 6 N’s 84 kWh battery isn’t just there for show; Hyundai claims a realistic range of around 291 miles on a single charge. Even more impressive is the car’s charging capability: plugging into an Ionity rapid charger gets you from 10-80% in as little as 18 minutes.
Not Just About Track Days:
While it clearly excels on winding roads and would likely dominate on a racetrack, the Ioniq 6 N surprisingly manages to blend its sporting character with real-world usability. The interior offers plenty of space for occupants (although taller folks might find headroom tight in back), and the driving position feels sporty without being overly cramped.
The large dashboard touchscreen is intuitive and houses Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while physical buttons are thoughtfully placed for climate control and common functions – a welcome touch considering Hyundai’s trend towards ever-increasing reliance on touchscreens.
Where It Falls Short:
While undeniably impressive in almost every way, the Ioniq 6 N isn’t perfect. The turning circle is excessively tight, making it a pain to maneuver in congested areas. Rearward visibility is limited, and even though our test car had cameras instead of side mirrors (not available on UK models), it wouldn’t have made much difference.
Pricing: Worth the Premium?
Hyundai says the Ioniq 6 N will be priced just a few hundred pounds above the already-impressive Ioniq 5 N, and well under £70,000 – putting it in direct competition with performance combustion engines. While you may not find the same luxurious appointments as some German rivals, the quality is excellent and everything feels thoughtfully crafted.
The Verdict:
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 N doesn’t just offer a glimpse into the future of electric driving; it redefines what an EV can be. It’s fast, agile, comfortable, and surprisingly engaging to drive in a way that few EVs currently manage. Yes, some compromises are made – namely with rear space and tight parking maneuvers – but for those seeking pure driving thrills without sacrificing practicality or efficiency, the Ioniq 6 N deserves serious consideration.
