When Hyundai rolled out the newly updated all-electric Ioniq 6 recently, it talked about “more refined curves” and other updates. Those updates not only include the Ioniq 6 N Line variant, but there was also just a mention of the coming performance-oriented Ioniq 6 N.
Three years after it debut, Hyundai is updating the Ioniq 6 all-electric sedan, or “streamliner” as it calls it. Included in the updates is an Ioniq 6 N.
Three years after it debut, Hyundai is updating the Ioniq 6 all-electric sedan, or “streamliner” as it calls it. Among its many expected improvements came an unexpected one: it’s going to get the N performance treatment. There will be an Ioniq 6 N for the 2026 model year — and we’ll get to see it in July.
However, company officials focused on the less performance-oriented Ioniq 6 and 6 N Line during its debut at the Seoul Mobility Show last week.
“Ioniq 6 has evolved from a single Electrified Streamliner into a lineup, each model expressing its own character while staying true to one refined vision,” said Simon Loasby, senior vice president and head of Hyundai Design Center. “Under the evolved design concept of ‘Pure Flow, Refined’, we’ve enhanced every line and detail to make Ioniq 6 simpler and more progressive.”
Drawing the line
The brand did show off the gateway dru, er, version of the Ioniq 6 N with the new Ioniq 6 N Line. The N Line package is the “show” without the “go,” if you will. “The Ioniq 6 N Line variant inherits the design DNA of the RN22e Rolling Lab released in 2022, adding a distinctly bold touch,” the company noted in a release.
The Ioniq 6 wasn’t fussy before, but it seems even more simplified now.
Designers accentuate the N Line’s aggressive look by enhancing details on the front and rea wing-shaped bumpers, giving them a “more sculptural form.” The new bumper design, along with a side sill emphasized by a single line, lowers the eye line of the “streamliner.”
“Additionally, the extensive use of black color at the rear, drawn from the RN22e’s design, contributes to the Ioniq 6 N Line’s sporty proportions. The two-dimensional Parametric Pixel lamp design further emphasizes a digital aesthetic,” officials noted.
The N Line package is offered on several vehicles in Hyundai’s lineup, including the Elantra, Sonata, Kona, Tucson as well as the all-electric Ioniq 5.
Performance plans
Just as the N Line package is pervasive among the brand’s vehicle portfolio, the N performance variants have been sprinkled around as well, with the Kona, Elantra and Ioniq 5 featuring the upgrade. The Kona N was quietly dismissed in 2024.
The brand did show off the gateway dru, er, version of the Ioniq 6 N with the new Ioniq 6 N Line.
However, officials have suggested the N performance line will be offered only on electric vehicles in the future. The Ioniq 5 N is a beast of a machine.
They took the mainstream Ioniq 5 and cut weight wherever possible, updated the EV’s electronic control system and its motors. They upgraded the suspension and blended braking system. And they swapped out the stock seats for grippier buckets that could hold you in place, even while pushing things to the limits.
In N form, the Ioniq 5 punches out a hefty 601 horsepower — 641 when you engage its appropriately named “Grin” mode. It races from 0 to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds, but with the aforementioned Grin mode engaged, it drops to 3.25 seconds.
No details were released about the Ioniq 6 N, but it’s likely to mirror that level of performance. In its base form, the rear-wheel drive standard, it produces 149 hp. But the all-wheel drive model amps up the power to 320 hp. The Ioniq 5 offers similar levels of performance.
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The new model
While the Ioniq 6 N is the sexy bit of news, it’s important not to forget the second iteration of the Ioniq 6 will be in dealer showrooms before folks realize it. And the new model gets some tweaks to be excited about.
The Ioniq 6 N Line variant inherits the design DNA of the RN22e Rolling Lab released in 2022, adding a distinctly bold touch.
The exterior gets a slimmer, sleeker and more elegant shape. The Ioniq 6 wasn’t fussy before, but it seems even more simplified now. Hyundai says the improvements are part of its “Pure flow, Refined” design concept.
The front end features a shark-nose design accented by a black lower front fascia that gives it an aggressive nose. Those black accents sweep down the sides and meet in the rear to give that a new look as well.
“The car’s front and rear design details have been refined for a modern and high-tech appearance, featuring separate slim DRLs and main lamps. Horizontal design elements create a wider stance, while the rear bumper design complements the front with modern chrome garnish,” the company said.
Inside moves
Officials noted the interior hews closely to the “Mindful Cocoon” concept. While we’re not sure if Wilford Brimley would like it, it sure is an impressive design. The company looked to make it a more intuitive experience for anyone using the infotainment and other electronics.
It features a redesigned steering wheel, enhanced door trim panels and more to give it an upscale look and feel. Additionally, the center console was updated to improve useability while the climate controls were enlarged for the same purpose.
The company didn’t offer pricing for the new model, but the 2025 version starts at $37,850 for the SE Standard Range model and runs up to $54,600 for the 320-hp Limited Dual Motor AWD version. Prices do not include destination charges.
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