Hyundai Ioniq 6 Facelift Tested: Can It Finally Compete?

The Hyundai Ioniq 6, first launched in Israel in May 2023, aimed to challenge the Tesla Model 3 in the family sedan segment with its futuristic design, aerodynamic profile (0.21 drag coefficient), and a 77 kWh battery offering over 600 km of range. Initially priced around 214,000 shekels, it has since seen price adjustments and a recent facelift. A more aggressive "N" version is also available for 400,000 shekels. Despite its features, the Ioniq 6 has not achieved the same market success as its Ioniq 5 sibling in Israel. This review assesses whether the updated model, starting at 225,000 shekels, can improve its sales performance.

The Ioniq 6's exterior remains distinctive, resembling a sci-fi concept car with its low profile, integrated spoiler, and pixel-based lighting. The interior features a clean dashboard dominated by two 12.3-inch screens and a floating center console. While build quality is solid, the use of cheaper plastics in lower areas and a touch-sensitive climate control panel detract from the premium feel. The seating position is low, and while rear legroom is ample due to the long wheelbase, headroom can be tight for taller passengers, and rear visibility is limited. The 401-liter trunk is deep but narrow, making it less practical for large loads compared to the Ioniq 5, though a 45-liter frunk offers additional storage.

Ride comfort in the city is compromised by a stiff suspension, especially with the 20-inch wheels on the tested model, which transmits imperfections directly into the cabin. Maneuverability in urban environments is also challenging due to the car's length and wide turning radius. However, on highways, the Ioniq 6 becomes more composed, with effective noise insulation from wind and road.

The Ultra trim includes a rear camera, wireless charging, heated front seats and steering wheel, and ambient lighting. The higher Excellence trim adds 20-inch wheels, leather seats with ventilation, a sunroof, 360-degree cameras, and a BOSE sound system. Both trims come with a comprehensive safety suite, rated highly by the Ministry of Transport, with the top trim adding blind-spot monitoring and parking exit collision avoidance. The car received a 5-star safety rating in 2022.

Performance is powered by a 228 hp rear-wheel-drive system, enabling a 0-100 km/h sprint in 7.4 seconds. The 80 kWh battery (77.4 kWh usable) offers a claimed range of 624-680 km, depending on wheel size. In testing, the car achieved a real-world consumption of 16.3 kWh/100 km, yielding approximately 490 km of usable range, a nearly 21.5% discrepancy from the manufacturer's claim. DC fast charging supports up to 350 kW, with a 10-80% charge taking 18 minutes under optimal conditions, and 20 minutes from 30-80% on a 180 kW charger.

Dynamically, the Ioniq 6 is praised for its flat cornering, secure handling, and predictable, forgiving nature at the limit. The steering offers good weight, and the brakes feel responsive, integrating well with regenerative braking. The review concludes that the updated Ioniq 6 is a more mature and successful alternative, excelling in unique design, ergonomics, rear space, performance, and handling, despite its drawbacks like a small trunk, interior plastics, and city ride comfort. The base model is recommended for its better value and potential for improved comfort and range.