2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 First Drive: Unmatched Quality and Comfort
You’ve probably seen the Hyundai Ioniq 6 commercial where Kevin Bacon is totally stocked about this new electric vehicle. After taking a day trip in one around Savannah, GA, and Hilston Head, SC, we can confirm that Kevin isn’t wrong. The 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 is raising the bar.
How much range does the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 have?
The 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 starts with an EPA-estimated 240 miles of range. Upgrade to the long-range model for an impressive 361 miles of range. This beats how far the Tesla Model 3 Long Range model can go.
Adding AWD reduces the 361-mile range to about 3160 miles. Adding AWD to the SEL and Limited models decreases the range from 305 to about 270 miles. The more expensive yet luxurious Genesis Eletrified GV70 maxes out at 236 miles of range.
The charge stayed strong while going all over the beautiful city of Savannah, GA, up to Hilton Head, SC, and back. The range provided hours of power for site seeing and testing the different driving modes and settings without any anxiety.
But if you need a charge, the built-in navigation system displays the closest charging networks. You can also select the charging station along the route; the battery will be preconditioned. The heat pump will warm the battery to provide fasting charging times.
Speaking of charging times, you can replenish the battery from about 10 to 80% in roughly 18 minutes with a DC fast charger. You can use a Level 2 charger to go from 10 to 80% in about six hours and 55 minutes.
How much power does the 2023 Ioniq 6 have?
The 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 generates 149 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. This may sound underpowered, but the instant torque provides a snappy acceleration. Adding AWD boosts the hp up to 225.
With the long-range model, you get 320 hp and 446 lb-ft of torque. According to Inside EVs, The Ioniq 6 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 5.1 seconds. That’s only slightly behind the Tesla Model 3’s ability to reach 60 mph in 4.5 seconds.
The acceleration is smooth, fast, and seamless. The Ioniq 6 was designed with performance in mind and is actually the most aerodynamic vehicle ever. It has a flat undercarriage to reduce drag. The overall drag coefficient is only 0.22, while the Tesla Model 3 rings in at 0.23.
It has a uniquely curved body shape to optimize its efficiency, and looks can be deceiving. It’s larger on the inside than it seems, with more passenger and cargo space than the Model 3. It also has a longer wheelbase for a smoother performance.
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 seems to effortlessly glide over bumps and potholes in the road. You know how rough roads in South Carolina and Georgia can be, but the Ioniq 6 quickly dampens any rattles.
Despite seeming to hover over the road, the tires provide a nice sense of grip for confident maneuvers with responsive handling. The brakes are surprisingly confident and strong, while other electric SUVs seem a bit soft.
Even while driving on a gravel road, the Ioniq 6 felt athletic and relaxed. It probably provides an excellent performance in the snow and other slippery conditions.
There are noticeable changes between each driving mode and regenerative braking settings. The Sport Mode has the snappiest response times and faster acceleration. The Normal Mode is still athletic, but a little more relaxed.
Also, Eco Mode is more leisurely and can feel a bit heavy, especially with the strongest brake regeneration mode engaged. Use the Custom mode to combine your favorite features from each setting.
Is the Ioniq 6 interior nice?
Yes, the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 has a near-luxury interior with solid build quality. Honestly, it makes this electric vehicle feel like a bargain because even the entry-level trim feels impressively comfortable and upscale.
Plus, it’s green. The 2023 Ioniq 6 is crafted with sustainable materials. The plush carpet is made from fish nets in the ocean, and the seats are covered in a supportive bio-based H-Tex material. They provide hours of comfort.
With the smooth ride and quiet interior, it’s easy to hold a conversation. One of our passengers felt so relaxed that they started to nap in the back seat. On that note, we can confirm that the front and rear have enough room for adults to stretch out. Also, the front passenger seat reclines to be nearly flat.
Customize the interior with dual-color ambient lighting and Interactive LED Pixel illumination. The massive panoramic sunroof provides plenty of natural light, and the ventilated seats keep you cool during humid afternoons.
We can’t wait to spend more time with the Hyundai Ioniq 6, but we already know that competitors should be nervous. It has an excellent range, unmatched comfort, and incredible value.
