Hyundai Ioniq 6 N Review: Electric Performance Saloon Tested

It is startlingly quick, handles superbly and, with a £65,800 on-the-road price, makes a strong case for itself as an electric alternative to far costlier performance saloons.

Hyundai’s N division has already demonstrated that it understands how to make an EV entertaining rather than merely fast. The Ioniq 5 N proved that a heavy battery-powered car could have a personality beyond its headline acceleration figure. The Ioniq 6 N takes that thinking and applies it to Hyundai’s low-slung streamliner saloon, producing something more purposeful-looking and, on the road, even more dynamic.

The Hyundai Ioniq 6 N has sharp looks matched by dynamic performance

The standard Ioniq 6’s rounded, aerodynamic silhouette remains underneath, but the N version is transformed visually. Its front end is more aggressive, with hidden LED matrix headlamps, N-specific LED daytime-running lights, enlarged dark lower sections and a distinctly shark-nosed face. There are widened arches, 20-inch lightweight alloy wheels on Pirelli P Zero tyres, orange brake callipers, extended side skirts and a substantial rear wing.

It is a bold look, perhaps too dramatic for some, but it works. More importantly, the car lives up to the image. This is not a cosmetic warm hatch treatment applied to a normal electric saloon. It feels very quick, handles superbly and delivers the focused, athletic character its styling promises.

Hyundai Ioniq 6 N

The figures back that up. An 84kWh battery feeds dual permanent-magnet synchronous motors driving all four wheels, producing 650PS, 478kW and 770Nm. Hyundai quotes 0-62mph in 3.2 seconds and a 160mph top speed.

It is properly rapid, but this is not simply a car for dispatching straights.

Hyundai has equipped it with electronically controlled suspension, high-performance dampers, a rear electronic limited-slip differential and huge brake discs: 21 inches at the front and 19 inches at the rear.

N Torque Distribution, N Launch Control and a configurable N Drift Optimiser underline its track-day intent, while its long, low body and 2,965mm wheelbase help it feel secure and controlled through corners.

Hyundai Ioniq 6 N

It remains a substantial machine, weighing from 2,166kg and stretching to 4,935mm long. Yet it carries that mass well. The chassis has a composed, planted feel, and there is sufficient adjustability in its N systems to make the driving experience more than an exercise in exploiting straight-line torque.

That is important, because many fast EVs are hugely capable but emotionally remote. The Ioniq 6 N attempts to close that gap with N e-Shift and E-Active Sound Design+. The former simulates gear changes through the paddles, with momentary torque interruptions, while the latter adds adjustable synthetic sound through the cabin and exterior speakers. It is undeniably contrived, but it gives the driver more to engage with and contributes to the car’s playful character.

Hyundai Ioniq 6 N

It is also fitted out for everyday life. The Alcantara-faced bucket seats, suede headlining, heated N Performance steering wheel and aluminium pedals give the cabin a suitably focused atmosphere, while heated and ventilated front seats, heated outer rear seats, dual-zone climate control and a heat pump preserve its long-distance credentials.

Equipment levels are extensive. Standard kit includes twin 12.3-inch displays, satellite navigation, an augmented-reality head-up display, Bose audio, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless phone charging, and five USB-C ports.

Hyundai Ioniq 6 N

The 371-litre boot is adequate rather than vast, but the Ioniq 6 N is intended as a performance saloon that can still handle the daily commute and longer trips. Hyundai claims a WLTP range of 302 miles, although hard use reduces that, while 800V and 400V charging compatibility allows a 10-80% recharge in 18 minutes on a 350kW CCS charger.

At £65,800, it is far from cheap, but it looks comparatively well equipped at the price.

Hyundai IONIQ 6 N 84kWh 650 PS 4WD

PRICE: £65,800

BATTERY: 84.0kWh lithium-ion polymer

POWER: 650PS / 478kW

TORQUE: 770Nm / 567.9lb ft

DRIVE: Dual-motor, all-wheel drive

0-62MPH: 3.2 seconds

WLTP RANGE: 302 miles

RAPID CHARGING: 10–80% in 18 minutes on 350kW CCS charger