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The Exceptional 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 Sedan: Review and Impressions

Last week I reviewed the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6, which really attracted me with its driving capabilities and attractive design.

Hyundai quickly demonstrated its commitment to electric vehicles several years ago by marketing the first generations of the IONIQ electric and the Kona electric, successful models, more particularly the Kona. The arrival of the Ioniq 5 almost two years ago added a layer of seriousness; the model is very interesting, and, if Hyundai could supply on demand, we would see tons of them on the road.

Hyundai is adding a new model to its line of electric vehicles, the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6, which takes the basics of the Ioniq 5, but comes in the form of a car rather than a crossover-type SUV. The design is again a primary component of the model, I especially appreciate that Hyundai is betting on passion and heart in an electric market which, until now, has been much more rational than passionate.

Since I already mentioned about the desing of the 2023 Ioniq 6, let's start from it.

2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 Design and Power

Let me tell you, the 2023 Ioniq 6 is something else! You see, Hyundai has taken the world of electric vehicles to a whole new level with this beauty and exterior design. It's sleek, sophisticated, and futuristic in every way possible.

Picture this: a stylish sedan that smoothly glides down the road. The smooth lines and aerodynamic shape of the Ioniq 6 give it a sense of elegance, while the available 20-inch aero wheels add a touch of modernity. And those active air flaps? Not only do they look attractive, but they also serve a purpose, improving the car's overall efficiency.

2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 Front design

Now, let's get to the innovative part. Underneath that elegant facade lies a powerful electric powertrain. The Ioniq 6 comes with different power options: the base level has 149 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, but if you crave more power, there's an option with a bigger battery that delivers a whopping 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque! Can you feel the thrill already?

And speaking of power, here's the best part. The 2023 Ioniq is built on Hyundai's Electric Global Modular Platform, which means it has an impressive range and charging capability. With the 800V DC charger, you can go from 10% to 80% charged in just 18 minutes! That means less waiting around and more time on the road.

It is true that the Ioniq 6 displays extraordinary lines, it is even prettier in real life. It benefits from the same touches of modernism as the Ioniq 5 with its lights and LED headlights featuring a very techno presentation. The car is all curvaceous with the front and rear parts swooping down, it looks like a stretched Volkswagen New Beetle. In fact, the manufacturer especially wanted to ensure that its design will display a minimum drag coefficient of 0.21 in order to optimize its efficiency and autonomy as much as possible.

It is above all the rear part that sets the Ioniq 6 apart with the roofline which leaks downwards and towards two rather imposing fins. Add thin lights joined by a strip that crosses the entire rear, it looks like the rear of a Porsche 911. Admit that it is not unpleasant as an observation.

2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 rear looks like Porsche 911

But the Porsche effect is enhanced by an aggressively designed lower section of the bumper that includes the air outlets. My neighbor stopped me as I was taking my evening walk and asked me what vehicle was I driving "the previous day." This is already a great recognition.

Now, let's step inside this beauty.

The cabin of the 2023 Ioniq 6 is nothing short of a sanctuary. High-quality materials and cutting-edge technology surround you, ensuring a luxurious and comfortable experience. The spacious interior is designed with modern aesthetics, making every ride a joy.

But the innovation doesn't stop there. How about a V2L 120V charging outlet that allows you to power larger appliances or even charge another electric vehicle in an emergency? That's right, this car is not just for your daily commute; it's ready for any adventure you throw its way.

2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 Interior

So, dear readers, if you're looking for an all-electric ride that's not just a car but an experience, the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq is one of the best options in the market for you. It's a true game-changer electric sedan, and I can assure you that once you take it for a spin, you'll never look at electric vehicles the same way again.

Now let's talk about the 2023 Ioniq 6's trims and pricing.

SE Standard Range

The SE Standard Range is the base trim level of the Ioniq 6. It's powered by a rear-wheel-drive single-motor setup that produces 149 horsepower and 239 pound-feet of torque. This is enough power to get you from 0 to 60 mph in 8.5 seconds, which is pretty quick for a base-model electric sedan. The SE Standard Range also has an EPA-estimated range of 240 miles, which is more than enough for most people's daily commutes.

The SE Standard Range is well-equipped, even for a base model. It comes standard with features like LED headlights, 18-inch wheels, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The SE Standard Range starts at $42,715, which is a pretty good value for what you get. However, if you want more range or power, you'll need to step up to a higher trim level.

SE Long Range

The SE Long Range is the next trim level up from the SE Standard Range. It gets a bigger battery pack that gives it an EPA-estimated range of 361 miles. It also gets a more powerful dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup that produces 225 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This trim level can go from 0 to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds, which is pretty quick for an electric sedan.

The SE Long Range comes standard with all of the features that are on the SE Standard Range, plus a few extras like a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, and a Bose sound system.

The SE Long Range starts at $46,615, which is a bit more expensive than the SE Standard Range. However, if you want more range and power, it's worth the extra money.

SEL

The SEL is the third trim level of the Ioniq 6. It comes standard with all of the features that are on the SE Long Range, plus a few extras like a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a wireless charging pad, and a blind spot monitoring system.

The SEL starts at $48,815, which is a bit more expensive than the SE Long Range. However, if you want all the latest features and technology, it's worth the extra money.

Limited

The Limited is the top-of-the-line trim level of the Ioniq 6. It comes standard with all of the features that are on the SEL, plus a few extras like a Nappa leather interior, a heated steering wheel, and a 14-speaker Bose sound system.

The Limited starts at $53,715, which is a bit more expensive than the SEL. However, if you want the best of the best, it's worth the extra money.

Which Trim Level Is Right for You?

So, which trim level of the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 is right for you? It depends on your needs and budget. If you're looking for an affordable electric sedan with good range and performance, the SE Standard Range is a great option. If you want more range and power, the SE Long Range is the way to go. And if you want all the latest features and technology, the SEL or Limited are the best choices.

The Drive

Now let me attempt to describe the driving experience of the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6. Picture this: I hopped into the driver's seat, and the first thing that struck me was the smooth and quiet ride. As I hit the road, I could feel the power of the electric motor effortlessly propelling the car forward, and let me tell you, the acceleration was quick! Merging onto the highway or overtaking other vehicles was a breeze.

But it wasn't just about speed; it was the whole package. The Ioniq 6 handled excellently, and the steering was responsive, making every turn enjoyable. Whether I was navigating through tight city streets or cruising on open highways, the car felt stable and composed.

2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 second read seats

What can I say at the conclusion of this review: the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 is not just another electric car; it's a whole driving experience. It's beautifl, quick, quiet, and comfortable, with an impressive range that gives you the freedom to explore. If you're looking for a stylish and efficient electric sedan I would recommend looking intothe Ioniq 6.

I would also recommend looking at Torque News reporter John Goreham's story comparing the Ioniq 6 with the Nissan Ariya.

Are you an Ioniq 6 owner? Please let us know your experience with this electric vehicle in the comments section below.

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 TwitterFacebokLinkedin and Youtube.

Comments

James Millet (not verified)    August 8, 2023 - 12:19PM

I share your observations however have two minor complaints: the bulbous key fob with external key is cumbersome and awkward and the exterior mirror controls are located in an inconvenient place on the lower dash.
I particularly like two features that are overlooked in the Quick Reference Guide: My Drive Mode with adjustable controls and the auto gen function.