Car review: 2023 Hyundai IONIQ 6

Posted 4 January, 2024 Mark Borlace

Distinctive sweeping lines, state-of-the-art technology, and impressive performance mean Hyundai’s flagship electric vehicle (EV), the IONIQ 6, stands out from the crowd.

Models like the IONIQ 6 are helping to accelerate the uptake of EVs, increasing the pace of transition to this technology.

A first look

The IONIQ 6 is offered in three trims, with rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive powertrains paired with a 77.4kWh battery. For this review, we tested the mid-range IONIQ 6 TECHNIQ AWD.

At $89,000 it doesn’t beat the Tesla 3 for value, but it’s stylish and has all the latest EV charging tech and performance. The higher price also means it’s ineligible for the State Government’s $3000 rebate and three years of free registration.

Its sleek, streamlined body features a curved and low-slung roofline. It’s a love-it-or-hate-it design, but either way, a downside is less room when getting in and out of the car.

The IONIQ 6 has projector-type LED headlights, LED tail-lights and 20-inch alloy wheels, which complement the car’s sporty look. Another fancy feature is the flush-fitting door handles that pop out when the car is unlocked.

The flat rear floor allows ample leg room for backseat passengers, but headroom is compromised thanks to the battery underneath. This design also means the boot area is quite small.

The nitty gritty

The transmission selector is simple to use, but being located on the steering column, it takes some getting used to. The technology in the IONIQ 6 receives upgrades or fixes via Hyundai’s Bluelink system and EV-specific connected services so you won’t need to visit the dealership for software updates.

The 12.3-inch digital virtual instrument cluster and the 12.3-inch multimedia navigation unit are standout features. Standard convenience features include a wireless smartphone charger and a heads-up display.

The bright dash trim looks good, but it reflects on the windscreen, which can be annoying. A handy feature is the internal power outlet beneath the rear seats, for charging 240-volt electric devices or appliances up to 15 amps. An outside outlet enables you to charge items such as e-bikes or even power your campsite.

At two tonnes when empty, the IONIQ 6 is a wide and heavy car, but Hyundai has altered the suspension to better suit Aussie conditions. Although this makes the suspension slightly firm, it’s still quite nimble.

Range

Hyundai’s stated range for the IONIQ 6 is up to 614km and it can charge from 10 to 80 per cent in as little as 18 minutes. Smart regenerative braking allows you to drive with one pedal and this can be adjusted via paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel.

The IONIQ 6 has plenty to offer if you’re in the market for an EV. The flat floor and small motor design of most EVs is improving functionality and design options, and the IONIQ 6 is a great example.