RIDE-CT – Classic Cars Celebrating Classic Cars in Connecticut
EAST HADDAM, CT – To begin with, it’s pronounced ion-ick, not ion-eek or ion-i-q. Beyond that, though, there’s no confusion concerning Hyundai’s contribution to the EV onslaught.
Electric vehicles continue to gain momentum in the new car marketplace and the Koreans have quickly come to the forefront, following in the tire tracks of Tesla.
Not only have they left the Japanese in the dust, but American car companies can’t match their pace for new EV launches either. Just visit a public charging station and see what’s parked there.
The IONIQ 6 is an eye-catching, streamlined sedan version of the boxier, though similarly striking, IONIQ 5 utility concept. Its avant-garde styling not only sets it apart but delivers reduced aerodynamic drag in the interest of improved operating efficiency. It offers such additional air management elements as “Active Grille Shutters.”
Love it or hate it, but with a caveat.
This latest Hyundai is rated with an impressive 361-mile electric operating range. Though that happens to be for the single motor, rear wheel drive version. If you get behind the wheel of a dual motor, all wheel drive IONIQ 6 Limited like I did, the range is more on the order of 270 miles. So take note as it pays to pay attention.
—
Running down the road, the IONIQ 6 behaves like many a modern EV. It quietly glides along and provides a smooth and refined driving experience. And, also like any electric vehicle, it’s heavy at 4,616 pounds. Thus, it feels firmly planted on its striking, 20-inch alloy wheels.
The interior design also contributes to its in-use tranquility. The seats are covered in Hi-Tex™ leatherette and the cabin includes soft-touch surfaces which are “crafted with eco-friendly biomaterials derived from canola flower, sugarcane and recycled fishing nets.”
You can’t make this stuff up, but it certainly is comfortable.
And be prepared. Breaking new ground is not without its challenges. From behind the wheel, the IONIQ is not the most intuitive automobile. Be prepared to spend some quality time thumbing through the Owner’s Manual to figure it all out.
There’s an array of cameras, radar and ultrasonic sensors that contribute to a safety system called SmartSense. It includes Highway Driving Assist, Lane Following/Lane Keeping Assist, Forward Collision Avoidance, Blind Spot Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic and more.
There’s extensive connectivity capability bundled within a 12.3-Inch instrument cluster and touchscreen display. There’s also a Hyundai Smartphone App available which allows for remote door unlocking, interior and seat preheating, radio channel selection and window control.
The previously mentioned power-pack alternatives add up to 225 horsepower on the RWD variant and 320 horsepower with AWD. There are four driving modes to compensate for most driving conditions – Eco, Normal, Sport or Snow. The IONIQ 6 is blessed with an ultra-fast charging system that allows it to replenish itself from 10 to 80 percent charged in as little as 18 minutes (on a 350kW DC Fast Charger).
—
As a humble Hyundai servant, the IONIQ 6 offers “America’s Best Warranty.” The normal Powertrain Protection and EV Direct Energy Components are covered for 10 Years or 100,000 Miles. Pricing starts at $41,600, but be prepared to jump up at least another $3,900 for AWD. Additional trim and accessory options on the Limited took it to $53,715, with delivery.
Yes, the unique IONIQ 6 has earned recognized credit for streamlining the EV evolution. Which is why it was recently named World Car of the Year.
(Under otherwise noted, all photos are courtesy of Hyundai)
