Car Review: The Hyundai Ioniq 6 is a stylish sedan with an eye-catching exterior and upscale interior

There are not many straight and upright body panels and it looks like the Ioniq 6 has been shaped by the wind, with big curves and hatchback styling. (WTOP/Mike Parris)

The Ioniq 6 has a special look that has big doses of future, with a modern aerodynamic-shaped body that really stands out. Its long body is nothing like most cars on the road today.

There are not many straight and upright body panels and it looks like it has been shaped by the wind, with big curves and hatchback styling that ends with two spoilers on the back end. Larger 20-inch wheels are part of the upper Limited trim level.

The inside of the Ioniq 6 is spacious, with room for five and a luxury sedan look and feel. You’ll notice two large screens — one for the instrument panel and another 12.3-inch central screen for radio, NAV and HVAC controls. Leatherette seats and other more sustainable materials are used throughout the cabin.

The front seats are heated and ventilated, and a relaxation feature that helps on long trips. The legroom in the back seat is more like a luxury sedan, with space to spread-out. However, the trunk isn’t as large as it could be. While it looks like a hatchback, it really isn’t. That’s why cargo space is tight.

This nice driving sedan has decent power and will please most first-time EV buyers.

The 320hp from the dual electric motor and HTRAC AWD means this sedan should be able to tackle most weather conditions. The ride is very compliant, soaking up most the bumps nicely. There is not much wind or road noise, so it is a pleasant long-distance cruiser, especially if you’re coming from a gas-powered car. The AWD and dual motor design lowers the range from over 300 miles, with the two-wheel drive version to around 270 miles with my test vehicle. However, on the highway at higher speeds you will see less range.

Luckily, the charging network is growing so trips are getting easier. I made a trip to northwest Pennsylvania and back to the D.C. area without range anxiety. As well, Hyundai has free 30-minute charging sessions with Electrify America. With the latest 800V battery system, this car will charge quickly in the 350 kW charging stations, if you can find them.


Cost: As tested, $55,425.

Options: $450 Serenity white paint; $210 carpeted floor mats.

MPG: 110 city and 94 highway; I managed 3.2mi/kWh in 644 miles of driving.

Safety: Forward collision-avoidance assist; blind-spot collision warning and assist; lane keeping assist; lane following assist; driver attention warning; blind-spot and surround view monitor; rear cross traffic alert and avoidance; safe exit warning; rear occupant warning; smart cruise control with stop & go.

Things to know: The Ionic 6 is the latest in a line of uniquely styled EVs that are quick to charge and fun to drive.

Pros:

  • Comfortable and spacious interior
  • Standout styling
  • Dual motor and AWD — fun to drive

 Cons:

  •  Pricey in the top trim level
  •  Rear vision suffers with small rear windows
  •  Less range when you choose AWD versions

 

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