Hyundai unveils sleek, sporty Ioniq 6

HYUNDAI’s streamlined Ioniq 6 all-electric sedan features perhaps the most dramatic exterior design ever seen on one of the Korean brand’s cars – its dramatic double-spoiler ‘whale tail’ rear-end, in particular, would not look out of place on a vintage Porsche. 

The Ioniq 6, which will soon be fully unveiled and may arrive in Australia early in 2023, is the second model in Hyundai’s Ioniq line-up and its user-centric design (constructed of various sustainable materials) is said to be “emotionally efficient” and “ethically unique”.

The design was sculpted with aerodynamic prowess in mind; the single-curved profile and various contours contribute to a drag coefficient of 0.21 – the lowest in Hyundai’s fleet. 

Like its Ioniq 5 sibling and the Kia EV6, the Ioniq 6 is based on Hyundai Kia’s electric modular platform (E-GMP), although its peak outputs and claimed range have yet to be revealed. 

A new ‘H’ badge adds a fresh branding feel to the Ioniq 6, and GoAuto notes Hyundai’s use of 700 'parametric pixels’ in elements such as the headlights, tail-lights clusters, front lower sensors, interior surrounds and, of course, that bold wing-mounted brake light strip. 

In line with Hyundai’s commitment to sustainable production, several eco-friendly materials have been incorporated in the Ioniq 6’s exterior – while most of the sheet metal is finished in bamboo charcoal paint, recycled pigment from end-of-life tyres features on the cladding. 

Inside the Ioniq 6, eco-process leather and recycled PET fabric are used for the seats, as well as bio TPO skin for the dashboard, bio paint for the doors, and recycled fishing-net carpet. 

“IONIQ 6 connects an emotional convergence of functionality with aesthetics,” said Hyundai Design Centre executive vice president, SangYup Lee.

“The distinctive streamlined design is the result of close cooperation between engineers and designers, with obsessive attention to detail and customer-centric values at the core. 

The cabin is described as practical and ‘cocoon-like’; the battery-electric model’s passenger stretches from front to rear (to match the car’s silhouette) and has a completely flat floor. 

Adding to the ‘cosy cocoon’ theme is dual-colour ambient LED lighting – it allows users to choose from 64 colours and six dual-colour themes. 

“We’ve created the Ioniq 6 as a mindful cocoon that offers a personalised space," said Mr Lee.

The modular dash' consists of a 12-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment display, complemented by a bridge-type centre console (for storage). 

On the theme of futuristic interior design, Hyundai has integrated 4-dot interactive pixel lights on the steering wheel, something the carmaker says facilitates “communication between driver and car”.

When Hyundai revealed the Ioniq 6 design, the company rolled out a 3D digital film at three billboard locations around the world, dazzling audiences at K-POP Square in Seoul, Piccadilly Circus in London, and the Big Kahuna in New York Times Square. 

Further details will be announced at the Ioniq 6’s world premiere later this month.