Those who know me well know that I have a deep love for anything that burns gasoline. That being said, I am also someone who is curious and enjoys discovering new things. That's why I decided to test drive the Hyundai Ioniq 6.
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 is a bold car and it has caused quite a stir since its launch. It is the second model to join the Ioniq family after the Ioniq 5, a model which, by the way, is vastly different aesthetically. In my opinion, Hyundai wanted to shock and provoke strong reactions with this new car, and one could say they succeeded. Some criticize it severely while others adore it. If this concept sounds familiar to you, it's because it applies to many popular products.
I'm not saying that the Ioniq range is the new Apple, far from it, but I believe Hyundai has played its cards well with its extreme-looking models that have managed to gather a whole lot of followers. Thus, we find ourselves with a cult following, and that, is something powerful because buyers will appreciate it, no matter what the brand does. Finally, you'll understand that it's not an exact science, but let's say that the Ioniq 6 strengthens Hyundai's brand image and its electric division.
Driving Experience
I believe I will never get used to the violence of the acceleration of an electric vehicle. Despite its futuristic and civilized appearance, the Ioniq 6 is capable of pushing your organs into the back of your thoracic cage. Well okay, I'm exaggerating a bit, but the acceleration of the Korean manufacturer's car is linear, as there is no transmission. Thus, one feels a bit like experiencing the pressure of takeoff in an airplane. However, I assure you that the effect dissipates somewhat when reaching a certain speed. Moreover, if this kind of thing makes you seasick, know that the Korean sedan offers several driving modes, some of which have much smoother accelerations.
I started my journey behind the wheel of the Ioniq 6 on the highway where I was able to observe how impressive the soundproofing is. I must say that I quickly appreciated the silence and tranquility of the cabin for long journeys. The driving position is also very comfortable, and although the ergonomics could be improved, the majority of controls are easily accessible. In short, it's a car that makes us feel comfortable very quickly.
City driving is just as pleasant as on the highway. The Ioniq 6 moves with ease despite its imposing size, and one quickly forgets that it weighs around two tons. In short, driving an Ioniq 6 for a week was a very pleasant experience.
Now, let's talk about charging, because that's also part of the driving experience in a sense. It is certain that in an ideal world, you can plug in the car at home every night. However, sometimes you have to use a charging station. Once again, the soundproofing of the Ioniq 6 allowed me to have a relaxing time on board, even on the outskirts of Highway 40 in Montreal.
Depending on the version you choose, you can get a range that varies between 435 and 581 kilometers on a full charge. So, we're in the right average market. The rear-wheel-drive version offers a power of 225 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while we're talking about 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque with the all-wheel-drive version.
Design and Technologies
I must confess that I don't know if I love or hate the design of the Ioniq 6. Well, it clearly doesn't leave me indifferent, but I have trouble determining exactly what emotion it is. In fact, there are elements of its design that I really like and others that annoy me, but that's precisely what makes the beauty of this car. It doesn't display an anonymous silhouette as is too often the case today, and that's something I know how to appreciate.
The interior of the Korean sedan is sumptuous and very futuristic. Moreover, the level of sophistication rises a notch in the evening with the ambient lighting which is simply superb. I was impressed by the quality of finishing and the style of the interior design of the car. The materials are pleasant to the touch, and the seats are very comfortable.
The first thing that catches your eye when you get into the Ioniq 6 is its huge screen that hosts the dashboard and the multimedia system. In both cases, the display is clear, and the design is interesting. As for the multimedia system, it is easy to use, and navigation is smooth. There are a lot of icons, but you quickly get used to them.
Price and Equipment
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 has a starting price of $54,999 before transportation and preparation fees for the rear-wheel-drive version. The price increases to $58,299 if you add all-wheel drive. Given the small price difference, it is better to opt for the latter, especially with Canadian weather conditions. You can also add the Ultimate package to the all-wheel-drive version for $6,700. This package includes a wide range of enhancements that make the car even more luxurious.
Author's Recommendations
The majority of electric cars are attractive for the numbers that accompany them, and the Hyundai Ioniq 6 is no exception. However, the Korean sedan is also a model that is chosen with emotion. During my test week, I spoke with many people who were intrigued by the model. Several of them even identified it as their favorite. That, for me, is proof that Hyundai did a good job with the Ioniq 6.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
