[Tabolleo] The "Complete EV" Ioniq 6 N Hits the Track as an Electric Sedan

Ioniq 6 N Test Drive
High-Performance Electric Sedan Races on the Taean Technoring Track

Hyundai Motor Company has launched its second high-performance electric vehicle, the Ioniq 6 N, setting a new direction for high-performance sedans in the era of electrification.

While Hyundai's first high-performance electric vehicle, the Ioniq 5 N, emphasized dynamic driving performance based on a sport utility vehicle (SUV) platform, the Ioniq 6 N delivers a balanced performance with its sedan-specific low center of gravity and aerodynamic capabilities. On the track, it demonstrated an even more solid chassis balance and maintained stability at high speeds without any noticeable body roll.

The Ioniq 6 N is a model that combines the instant responsiveness unique to electric vehicles with Hyundai's N brand driving control technology. The concept is to provide predictable handling on the track and a smooth ride in everyday driving. While electric vehicles have generally been considered more responsive than internal combustion engine cars but less engaging to drive, this new high-performance EV from Hyundai proves that electric vehicles can also deliver the "fun of driving," not just speed.

Hyundai Motor Company Ioniq 6 N. Provided by Hyundai Motor Company

On October 24, I had the opportunity to test drive the Ioniq 6 N on the track at Hyundai's HMG Driving Experience Center in Taean, South Chungcheong Province. The test drive course included slalom (curved driving), drift (sliding maneuvers), and rides with professional drivers, allowing participants to directly experience the vehicle's responsiveness and control performance.

Looking at the design of the Ioniq 6 N, it builds on the base Ioniq 6 model, enhancing its high-performance identity with exclusive bumpers, a diffuser, a rear spoiler, and N-specific badges. The lower part of the body features carbon fiber aero parts to improve aerodynamic performance.

Hyundai Ioniq 6 N. Provided by Hyundai Motor Company

On the track, the Ioniq 6 N stood out for its acceleration responsiveness and cornering stability. In particular, during the slalom section, torque was distributed quickly between the front and rear motors, allowing for stable control of the vehicle's movements. The application of electronic suspension and vibration-reducing bushing structures ensured that the body remained stable and steady even at high speeds. The brake pedal response was immediate, and the vehicle maintained a stable posture during braking.

The Ioniq 6 N is equipped with an 84.0 kWh battery and front and rear dual motors, delivering a maximum output of 478 kW (650 horsepower) and a peak torque of 770 Nm. Using the "N Grin Boost" function, which maximizes acceleration for a limited time, drivers can experience explosive acceleration. The newly introduced "N Battery" system, which manages battery temperature and output according to driving conditions, also debuts with the Ioniq 6 N.

Hyundai Ioniq 6 N's instrument cluster. The cluster also displays the temperature of the motor and battery. Provided by Hyundai Motor Company

The most notable feature while driving is the ability to monitor the vehicle's condition in real time through data. The instrument cluster displays the intensity of brake and accelerator pedal inputs as a percentage (%). The temperatures of the battery and motor are also instantly shown on the monitor. This allows drivers to understand and control the vehicle's responses based on data rather than just feel.

During the drift experience on a wet surface, the Ioniq 6 N showcased the precise torque control unique to electric vehicles. As the rear wheels slipped on the circular course, the vehicle finely adjusted the output of the front and rear motors to maintain a consistent slip angle.

When drifting, drivers can manually set the level of system intervention, and by turning off all assist systems, the vehicle can be controlled purely by the driver's input. Although I did not achieve a perfect drift myself, the control capabilities demonstrated by the professional driver during the subsequent taxi drive in the Ioniq 6 N were highly impressive.

Hyundai Ioniq 6 N drifting. Provided by Hyundai Motor Company

The Ioniq 6 N is less of a mass-market model aimed at boosting sales and more of a strategic flagship that showcases high-performance technology in the electrification era. Hyundai set a sales target of 150 units for this year, but the initial batch has already sold out.

The Ioniq 6 N is priced at 79.9 million won (with a 3.5% individual consumption tax and eco-friendly vehicle tax benefits applied), which is slightly higher than the Ioniq 5 N (74.9 million won). Compared to imported electric vehicles in the same class, the Ioniq 6 N offers significant price competitiveness as a pure electric sedan capable of track driving. It is expected to further solidify Hyundai's position in the high-performance electrification market.

Hyundai Ioniq 6 N. Provided by Hyundai Motor Company