2023 Hyundai IONIQ 6 Long Range Is an EV Industry Disrupter

The IONIC name was first used in 2012 for the Hyundai i-oniq concept which was a vehicle that could be said was ahead of its time. The i-oniq concept was a small sporty hatchback that was equipped with a battery-electric drivetrain and a range-extending gasoline engine. Then in 2016, Hyundai revealed the all-new Ioniq Hybrid at both the Geneva and New York auto shows. This new vehicle was a compact five-door lift-back that was being marketed as the first vehicle sold without a standard gas engine by offering it as a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or full electric. In 2022 Hyundai Motor Group announced their most aggressive electric vehicle plan to date with the announcement of the IONIQ automotive brand. The Ioniq name is no longer a vehicle, but now the IONIQ brand (combination of ion and unique) that has a targeted goal of 560,000 units sold by 2025. The first vehicle launched from the IONIQ stable was the crossover utility vehicle IONIQ 5.

New for 2023

The next vehicle to be released from the Hyundai IONIQ stable is the head-turning IONIQ 6. This vehicle represents a significant leap forward in terms of design, technology, and performance for electric vehicles. It's a mid-size fastback sedan that's fully electric and its stunning aerodynamic lines come from Hyundai's 2020 concept car the Prophecy. When the 6 was revealed at the July 2022 Busan International Motor Show in South Korea, it was the talk of the industry. Later it was proven all the hype was well deserved when the IONIQ 6 swept World Car of the Year, World Electric Vehicle, and World Car Design Awards of the Year.

Power Train

Beneath the IONIQ's striking exterior, the 6 is driven by a state-of-the-art electric powertrain that delivers both performance and efficiency. Customers will be able to select from two battery pack options and two motor layouts. There is the 53 kWh or 77.4 kWh with either a rear motor only or both front and rear motors for all-wheel drive or the standard range with its 53-kWh battery pack. The IONIQ 6 will also sit on Hyundai's all-new Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) which optimizes interior spacing allowing 4 large adults to ride comfortably.

Impressions

My press loaner for the week was the Long Range AWD which had the larger 77.4 kWh battery and double motors that definitely will impress you with its nimble and quick speed while producing an EPA-estimated 361 miles of range. So in a nutshell, you have a vehicle that has the quickness and speed of a sports car, the roominess of a full-size sedan, and an estimated combined 103 MPGe per Monroney, making it one of the most energy-efficient EVs in the market. It's easy to see why it swept the 3 top world automotive awards.

Exterior

The Hyundai IONIQ 6 fastback boasts a design that seamlessly marries futuristic elements with timeless elegance. At first glance, it commands attention with its bold and aerodynamic stance with its smooth curves and sharp lines that produce Hyundai's Lowest Drag Coefficient of 0.22. That crazy coefficient number showcases Hyundai's dedication to aerodynamics and efficiency.

Interior

When you climb in the fastback's cabin, the interior design seamlessly fuses modernity with comfort. It features clean lines, high-quality materials, and a driver-focused layout. The integration of advanced technology becomes evident with the expansive infotainment display that seemingly floats atop the dashboard. The digital cockpit serves as the nerve center, offering an array of connectivity features, entertainment options, and customizable settings at the driver's fingertips.

Safety Award

Hyundai's IONIQ 6 has achieved a five-star rating in the Euro NCAP safety test, excelling in the 'Adult Occupant', 'Child Occupant', and 'Safety Assist' categories. Equipped with Hyundai SmartSense Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, the IONIQ 6 ensures safety for all road users. The model's top rating demonstrates Hyundai's leadership in future mobility and commitment to high safety standards.

In my life, I've noticed there are two types of companies in the world: those that win awards and those that make money. It's pretty hard to focus on both, but a tip of the hat to the senior executives and their talented staff for doing both. If you are looking to get into the electric vehicle game, be sure to swing by a Hyundai dealer and drive the Hyundai IONIQ brand of cars.

Specifications

Engine: 77.4 kWh Battery with Double Motors
Range: EPA-estimated 361 miles
Fuel: MPGs: 103 MPGe per Monroney
Platform: Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP)
Wheels: 20” Alloy Wheels
Sound: Bose Premium sound System
Touchscreen: 12.3-inch
Exterior Color: Gravity Gold
MSRP Pictured: $58,425

Learn More

For more information or to test drive this vehicle for yourself, stop by a local dealer or visit online at:
Hyundai | IONIQ

About Hyundai

Established in 1967, Hyundai Motor Company is present in over 200 countries with more than 120,000 employees dedicated to tackling real-world mobility challenges around the globe. Based on the brand vision 'Progress for Humanity,' Hyundai Motor is accelerating its transformation into a Smart Mobility Solution Provider. The company invests in advanced technologies such as robotics and Urban Air Mobility (UAM) to bring about revolutionary mobility solutions, while pursuing open innovation to introduce future mobility services. In pursuit of sustainable future for the world, Hyundai will continue its efforts to introduce zero emission vehicles equipped with industry-leading hydrogen fuel cell and EV technologies.