2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6 Limited Review: The Best Alternative To Tesla Model 3

Hyundai, a champion in the electric vehicle arena, threw down the gauntlet to the Tesla Model 3 with the Ioniq 6 sedan. This beautiful vehicle has a class-leading range of 361 miles with the largest of the two battery packs, eclipsing even the popular Model 3. But the Ioniq 6 goes beyond sheer mileage. It's a technological marvel wrapped in a sleek, aerodynamic package, inheriting the best aspects of its boxy sibling, the Ioniq 5 SUV. 

The Ioniq 6 caters to various driving preferences with rear-wheel or all-wheel-drive configurations. You could tell from its first spin that the Ioniq 6 was going to be the car of the year last year. And that was the case.

Until recently the Ioniq 6 had only one disadvantage compared to the Tesla Model 3 and that was the lack of access to Tesla Superchargers, which was an important bonus for Tesla owners; however, that disadvantage is now gone as last year Hyundai announced its vehicles will add Tesla's charging standard (NACS) beginning in Q4 2024.

What are the 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6 trims and what are their prices?

Hyundai's website lists 3 available trims for the 2024 Ioniq 6, some of which have their Long Range Variants:

• SE. Starting at Est. Net Price. $42,450.
• SEL. Starting at Est. Net Price. $45,250.
• Limited. Starting at Est. Net Price. $50,150.

Depending on your location your pricing may be different. For example, the window sticker price on the Ioniq 6 model, which I was test driving with Torque News was $53, 650, which reached $55,975 with added features for the 2024 Ioniq 6 Limited Long Range AWD trim with 20" wheels.

Nothing has changed in the Ioniq 6 in 2024, compared to the 2023 model, which I reviewed here.

Exterior design of the 2024 Ioniq 6 compared with the Tesla Model 3.

Obviously, the 2024 Ioniq 6 has a design that is getting people talking. Its very streamlined silhouette, its curved roof which reduces the space at the rear reserved for the trunk to almost nothing, may not please everyone. Its exterior LED lighting is also very original. There's a bit of a retro feel to using the LEDs as so many big blocks reminiscent of the 90s, and that's obviously a matter of taste.

Personally, I find the Ioniq 6 prettier on the outside than other electric sedans of the price range close to $60,000, You know, there aren't a ton of choices, besides the Model 3. There's especially the Polestar 2, the base model of which costs $50,000, but the most attractive version of which is about $8,000 more expensive.

The 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6 and the 2024 Tesla Model 3 present contrasting design philosophies in the electric car arena. The Ioniq 6 embodies a futuristic aesthetic, prioritizing aerodynamic efficiency with a silhouette that breaks away from traditional sedans. The overall impression is one of elegance and a focus on slicing through the wind with minimal resistance.

In stark contrast, the Tesla Model 3 exudes a minimalist, almost timeless aesthetic. Its design philosophy leans towards classic proportions and clean lines, with a silhouette that instantly evokes the familiar four-door sedan shape. The emphasis here is on clean surfaces and a smooth, uncluttered look. The signature Tesla features, like the flush door handles and the absence of a traditional grille, are certainly present, but they feel more integrated into the overall design rather than standing out as unique elements. The Model 3 prioritizes a sleek, understated look that leans towards a broader appeal.

The Ioniq 6 caters to those who appreciate a bolder, more progressive design that hints at the future of electric vehicles. The Model 3, on the other hand, is ideal for those who value a timeless, understated look that prioritizes clean lines and a familiar form factor.

How is the interior of the 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6 compared to that of Tesla Model 3?

Hyundai's dedication to creating lounge-like comfort in its Ioniq models continues with the 2024 Ioniq 6. The cabin echoes the modern and minimalist aesthetic of the Ioniq 5, with a flat floor that accentuates the feeling of spaciousness. As a conventional four-door sedan, it offers comfortable seating for five across two rows. Hyundai has prioritized tranquility within the Ioniq 6, employing multiple layers of sound-deadening material to create an exceptionally quiet cabin environment. While the cargo area might not compete with hatchbacks or crossovers in sheer volume, the rear seats conveniently fold down to expand storage capacity when needed.

The centerpiece of the Ioniq 6's interior is the dual-screen setup. Both the driver's gauge cluster and the infotainment system measure a generous 12.3 inches, offering crisp visuals and intuitive controls. The infotainment system utilizes the same software found in other Hyundai models, integrating seamlessly with BlueLink for connected car features. Smartphone connectivity is also a breeze thanks to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

The Tesla Model 3, on the other hand, takes a more radical approach to its interior design. Minimalism reigns supreme, with a focus on a large central touchscreen that controls nearly all vehicle functions. While this approach offers a clean and futuristic aesthetic, it can also feel somewhat sterile and lack the physical buttons found in the Ioniq 6. Additionally, the Model 3's rear headroom can be tight for taller passengers, a concession to its sloping roofline for improved aerodynamics.

Both vehicles offer feature-rich infotainment systems, but their approaches differ. The Ioniq 6 retains a balance between physical buttons and touchscreen controls, catering to users who prefer a mix of interaction methods. The Tesla Model 3's heavy reliance on the central touchscreen might feel less intuitive for some drivers accustomed to a wider variety of control options.

Second row has enough space as you can see from the image above.

Power and performance of the Ioniq 6

The 2024 Ioniq 6 shares its electric underpinnings with its SUV sibling, the Ioniq 5. This translates to a range of powertrain options catering to different driving preferences. The base Ioniq 6 prioritizes efficiency, offering a single rear-mounted electric motor generating 149 horsepower. Upgrading to the Long Range battery pack with a single motor bumps the output to a respectable 225 horsepower. For those seeking maximum performance, the top-tier option boasts a dual-motor setup with 320 horsepower and all-wheel drive. These AWD versions come exclusively with the larger battery pack.

Ioniq 6's acceleration is very quick as in any electric car and it comes at the expense of some efficiency, but it positions the Ioniq 6 as a compelling choice for drivers seeking a balance of practicality and performance.

When it comes to range, the Ioniq 6 throws down the gauntlet to the Tesla Model 3. With the Long Range battery pack, the Ioniq 6 boasts an EPA-estimated driving range of up to 361 miles, surpassing even the most efficient variants of the Model 3. This extended range translates to fewer charging stops and greater peace of mind for long-distance travel. Both vehicles support DC fast charging, allowing for rapid top-ups at compatible stations. While specific charging times might vary depending on factors like battery size and station power output, both the Ioniq 6 and Model 3 offer the convenience of quick charging on the go.

While the Ioniq 6 and Model 3 offer impressive performance figures and range estimates, it's important to consider how these translate to the driving experience. The Ioniq 6 prioritizes a smooth, comfortable ride, with a well-insulated cabin that minimizes road noise. Despite its focus on comfort, the car still delivers engaging handling thanks to its low center of gravity, which translates to a confident feel when taking corners. Additionally, driver-selectable regenerative braking allows for greater control over energy recuperation during deceleration.

How does the Ioniq 6 drive?

Generally, online reviews paint a picture of the 2024 Ioniq 6 as a compelling electric car that prioritizes both efficiency and driving enjoyment. The visibility and handling of the Ioniq 6 are excellent. The car is still quite heavy, thanks to the 77.4-kilowatt-hour batteries found under the passenger compartment. Praised for its excellent visibility and handling, the Ioniq 6 inspires confidence behind the wheel. While its weight can be noticeable over particularly aggressive speed bumps, the car's low center of gravity translates to a planted and stable feel on the highway. This stability, coupled with the car's aerodynamic design, contributes to impressive real-world range.

I personally think Ioniq 6's range is sufficient for most daily commutes and even regional trips. While Hyundai's official 270-mile range estimate for the AWD variant might be optimistic, especially in colder climates, real-world results suggest drivers can comfortably expect upwards of 250 miles on a charge.

Some reviewers think the absence of wireless CarPlay might be a drawback for some tech-savvy drivers, but I am personally fine with it as I never use it anyway.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the reviewer admits the Ioniq 6 would be a top contender for a new car purchase, especially to the Tesla Model 3. The blend of efficiency, impressive range, and enjoyable driving dynamics make the Ioniq 6 a strong offering in the electric vehicle market.

Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, and Youtube. He has more than a decade of expertise in the automotive industry with a special interest in Tesla and electric vehicles.