Hyundai Mulls Over IONIQ 6 Facelift: Will Design Changes Salvage Sales?

Facelift version of IONIQ 6
Consideration stage
Will the disappointing design change?

According to the industry, Hyundai is considering a facelift version of the IONIQ 6. Hyundai typically prepares facelift models every three to three and a half years. As the current model was released less than two years ago, it is expected to be released after several stages, such as consideration and development.

The IONIQ 6 was not very popular in South Korea. In the first quarter of 2024, it recorded 1,038 units, ranking 53rd among all automobile sales. Since it was relatively unpopular in South Korea, attention is being paid to how Hyundai will present the IONIQ 6.

Like or dislike about Retro design
Criticism focused on the front design

The IONIQ 6 is one of the models that has received a lot of criticism from consumers regarding its design. This criticism was mainly focused on the front. Unlike the IONIQ 5, evaluated as a modern interpretation of the retro design, the IONIQ 6 was like an old vehicle. There was also a strong feeling that the elegant curved lines of the aerodynamic bonnet and the dull headlamp box shape were not in harmony.

There was also the fact that the larger LED inside the headlamp made it stand out more. The black garnish across the front of the vehicle was criticized by many as being disappointing as it sometimes created an unnatural feel depending on the color. The imbalance between the front and rear design was also pointed out. The fastback-shaped roof line, relatively sleek tail lamps, and rear design did not match the soft curved front part.

There were a lot of positive reviews on the back
Need a change in design

The harsh criticism continued indoors as well. Plastic materials, which seem to have cut costs, were applied here and there, creating a rugged feel. However, there were also favorable reviews about the rear part. Many opinions were that the pixel pattern design, which was well-received by consumers in the IONIQ 5, was well incorporated into the rear. The pixel lamps that extend horizontally and vertically harmonize with the angled rear design.

In the case of the facelift version, changes are expected to be made to the front, which was disappointing, as the changes are focused on the exterior. Some say applying Hyundai’s family look to the front would be better. Opinions are also being proposed to expand the application of pixel patterns like the IONIQ 5 or to apply seamless horizon lamps.

Declining demand for sedans
must overcome the anxiety factors

Although some people think Hyundai’s family look is monotonous, the straight daytime running lights make up a clean front design. Others believe it is better to simplify the design and reduce likes and dislikes. Meanwhile, declining demand for sedans was also cited as a factor in the IONIQ 6’s sales instability.

This is because the demand group for sedans is moving to SUVs, and the lack of second-row headroom space for the fastback-shaped IONIQ 6 is a drawback that has been consistently raised in the past. With various difficulties expected, consumers are paying close attention to the form in which Hyundai will launch the facelift version of the IONIQ 6.