Hyundai Ioniq 6 Facelift: What to Expect from the Updated Electric Sedan

Hyundai is already hard at work on a mid-life facelift for its sleek Ioniq 6 electric sedan, despite the model only hitting global markets in 2022. The first glimpses of development prototypes have been captured during hot weather testing in Europe, giving us a peek into what might be in store for the refreshed version of this popular EV.

Subtle Yet Significant Design Tweaks

The Ioniq 6, the sedan counterpart to the retro-inspired Ioniq 5 crossover, has been spotted wearing heavy camouflage. This suggests Hyundai is planning some noteworthy changes, particularly to the front end of the vehicle. While the Ioniq 5 received only minor updates, the Ioniq 6 appears to be gearing up for more substantial revisions, possibly with a more aggressive front design. The camouflaged prototypes feature extensive black sheets and cladding, hinting at a potential redesign that aligns more closely with Hyundai’s bold design language, as seen in models like the Sonata sedan.

Beyond the front end, the facelifted Ioniq 6 is expected to sport new alloy wheel designs and a revised rear, hinted at by the covered wheels and rear end on the prototypes. Inside, drivers can anticipate an upgraded connected infotainment system, keeping in line with the latest offerings from Hyundai and Kia.

Power and Range Improvements

One of the most exciting prospects for the facelifted Ioniq 6 is an expected increase in driving range. Reports suggest Hyundai may equip the updated model with the larger 84kWh battery already used in the Ioniq 5, a step up from the current 77.4kWh unit in the Ioniq 6. This upgrade could push the sedan’s claimed driving range close to 700 kilometers, a significant improvement over the current Extended Range RWD model's 614 kilometers. Such a boost would enhance the Ioniq 6’s appeal, especially as range anxiety remains a critical concern for EV buyers.

Enter the Ioniq 6 N: A Performance Powerhouse

Perhaps the most intriguing development is the anticipated debut of the first-ever Ioniq 6 N, building on the high-performance credentials of Hyundai’s N division. Previewed by the RN22e concept, the Ioniq 6 N will share its underpinnings with the powerful Ioniq 5 N, which boasts a dual-motor electric drivetrain capable of producing up to 478kW and 770Nm. This setup promises a thrilling, track-ready driving experience.

Given the lower, more streamlined profile of the Ioniq 6 compared to the boxier Ioniq 5, the Ioniq 6 N is expected to deliver even better performance. It could potentially beat the Ioniq 5 N’s impressive 3.4-second 0-100 km/h time while offering improved range, making it a formidable competitor in the electric performance car segment.

Market Performance and Competition

Despite being pitched as a rival to the Tesla Model 3, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 has yet to capture a significant share of the Australian market. In 2023, only 623 units of the Ioniq 6 were delivered in Australia, compared to the 17,347 Model 3s. The trend continued into 2024, with Hyundai registering just 282 Ioniq 6 vehicles by the end of July, marking a 17.5% decline from the previous year.

In contrast, Tesla’s Model 3 remains a dominant force, with over 10,600 registrations from January to July 2024, even without official sales reporting to VFACTS. The Ioniq 6 also trails behind more expensive competitors like the BMW i4, which has achieved 1,335 registrations in the same period, outselling the Hyundai EV by nearly seven to one.

Looking Ahead

The updated Hyundai Ioniq 6 is expected to be unveiled sometime in 2025, with the performance-focused Ioniq 6 N debuting shortly thereafter. While it faces stiff competition from the likes of Tesla and premium brands, the facelifted Ioniq 6, with its design tweaks, improved range, and potential N variant, could help Hyundai carve out a more significant presence in the electric sedan market. Keep an eye out for more updates as Hyundai continues to refine and enhance its electric lineup.