Hyundai’s Ioniq 6 N offers more sound, more shifts, more smiles

Summary

In addition to the new sound, the shape of the 6 N is obviously quite a bit different than that of the SUV-silhouette of the Ioniq 5. Being a sedan means having a trunk, and on that trunk is a mighty large wing with a dramatic curving profile to match the sculpted edges at the rear of the 6 N. The Ioniq 6 can fast charge very quickly, but how many tracks have convenient 350 kW DC fast chargers? Credit: Tim Stevens Not big enough? Don't worry, Hyundai is launching a new line of N Performance parts, enabling buyers to swap on a positively massive rear wing that follows the trend of gooseneck mounting, a design popularized by modern GT racing. Big wings and EVs don't usually mix, since the priority is usually aerodynamics and not downforce. However, Eduardo Ramirez, Chief Designer of Hyundai Design Europe, told me that despite the extra aerodynamic volume, the bigger optional wing doesn't create extra drag. So if you crave that low-key GT3 look but worry about a big-time range hit, follow your heart. The final change from the 5 N is so subtle that I didn't even notice it at first, but the division's distinctive Performance Blue paint now shines through a white pearl coating. I'm a big fan of the N series' blue/red/black liveries, and the extra sheen here just makes things look that much more premium. Good seats are critical in a car that's meant to pull lateral Gs. Tim Stevens Good seats are critical in a car that's meant to pull lateral Gs. Tim Stevens Good seats are critical in a car that's meant to pull lateral Gs. Tim Stevens Speaking of premiums, the big question on my mind is how much the Hyundai Ioniq 6 N will cost. Prices of everything are a bit turbulent, with shifting tariffs and credit situations, but right now, you'll have to spend an extra $23,600 over the $42,600 MSRP of an Ioniq 5 if you want to step up to an Ioniq 5 N. If that same delta is maintained for this new model, given the Ioniq 6 starts at $37,850, you'll be looking at somewhere around $60,000 ...