It wasn’t so long ago that the idea of an electric Hyundai on PH would have seemed daft. But then nobody really banked on its approach; in addition to the excellent Ioniq 5, there have been concepts as diverse (and brilliant) as the Grandeur and N Vision 74, plus the promise of proper driver-focused flagship EVs. The Ioniq 5 N is coming soon, and an Ioniq 6 equivalent - previewed by the RN22e - won’t be far behind. The notable news now is when an electric Hyundai isn’t of interest.
Before the Ioniq 6 N, however, comes the standard version, which Hyundai has just confirmed pricing for. On sale from November 9th, the First Edition will cost £54,995. That buys the all-wheel drive, dual motor set-up of the E-GMP platform familiar from the 5, with the same 325hp. There aren’t performance claims yet, though expect them to mirror the hatch, which reaches 62mph in 5.2 seconds and has a 115mph top speed. Aided by a drag co-efficient of 0.21 - they don’t call it an Electrified Streamliner for nothing - the WLTP combined claimed range for an Ioniq 6 is 320 miles from the 77.4kWh battery. As with all the cars on this architecture, it can accept 350kW of charge.
Like so many of these First Edition models that launch a new model, the Ioniq 6 comes loaded with equipment. Buyers will get 20-inch matte black wheels, leather and tartan seats inspired by the Prophecy concept (fully reclinable for both driver and passenger), a heat pump and Bose premium audio. Premium and Ultimate specs for the Ioniq 6, like the 5, will follow the First Edition. There will be four colours available for the moment: Biophilic Blue Pearl (we’re guessing that’s this one), Gravity Gold Matte, Nocturne Grey and Serenity White Pearl. Already they sound more interesting than the Ioniq 5 palette, which boils down to shades of a dank autumn afternoon. Finally, check out the badge; the Ioniq 6 is the first Hyundai to use the new ‘H’ emblem.
Given the demand around the Ioniq 5 - with 10k examples at or above list price, meaning you can skip the queue (!) - expect much the same for the 6. “The Ioniq 6 First Edition presents customers with not only a unique specification but also an opportunity to secure one of the very first vehicles to reach the UK”, added Hyundai’s UK MD, Ashley Andrew. That’s more important than ever, it might be argued. Interested parties can register for the launch event here, which will take place on the 9th at 09:00 (don’t be late!), after which reservations will be open. Expect the Ioniq 6 on the road, and very many turned heads, from early 2023. Let’s hope the N isn’t far behind.
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