Hyundai’s high-performance EV
Ioniq 6 N is set to launch
A prototype has been spotted in South Korea
In recent years, Hyundai’s bold shift toward electrification has significantly boosted its brand value. While traditional European automakers struggle to keep pace, Hyundai has captured a substantial share of the European market. North America is rapidly closing in, achieving the highest market share among automakers, excluding Tesla.
A standout area for Hyundai is its high-performance EVs. Numerous specialized media outlets outside Korea have praised the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N as having “no rival.” Critics highlight its exceptional thermal management, which allows it to tackle the notoriously challenging Nürburgring circuit for two consecutive laps—a feat not commonly matched by other EVs in a similar price range. Hyundai is also expected to release another impressive model soon.
This is the first sighting since the test mule based on the facelift model
According to a report by the Korean Car Blog, an Ioniq 6 N prototype was captured being tested in Korea. The new car was previously spotted testing in Germany in April, but there are significant differences. The vehicle that was spotted at that time was a Test Mule. This early test vehicle utilized the base vehicle’s exterior without reflecting the mass-produced automobile’s design.
This time, the vehicle captured in South Korea is a full-fledged prototype covered in camouflage all over the body. First, looking at the front, it is based on the facelift model of Ioniq 6 that is scheduled to be launched first. It is known that it will have a front that is closer to the SONATA The Edge than the current model by applying separate headlamps. In addition, 5-spoke 20-inch wheels inspired by the high-performance EV concept RN22e previously revealed by Hyundai were applied. Each spoke has several holes that seem to be aimed at weight reduction.
The rear end rivals the RN22e with a massive rear wing
While the front view may not reveal all the details, the rear of the vehicle is even more striking. The rear wing, so prominent that the camouflage seems almost redundant, immediately draws attention. Although it isn’t as large as the wing on the RN22e, it appears to be the largest possible within the vehicle’s overall dimensions. This design is expected to generate substantial downforce at high speeds.
Also, a distinctive red stripe encircles the lower part of the body, a hallmark of the N model’s design. The facelifted Ioniq 6 will feature updated tail lamps and a rear diffuser inspired by the RN22e. Consequently, the new model’s overall appearance will closely resemble the current one.
Will it become the fastest Hyundai ever?
Production is expected in the second half of next year
Meanwhile, the power performance of the Ioniq 6 N is not known in detail. Even if it produces the same combined output and maximum torque as the Ioniq 5 N, it is expected to perform better. This is because, unlike the hatchback-type Ioniq 5 N, the Ioniq 6 N has an aerodynamically advantageous sedan shape. Acceleration is also expected to show performance at the level of the early 3 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph).
According to industry sources, Hyundai plans to begin production of the Ioniq 6 N at its Asan plant in the second half of 2025, targeting an annual output of 6,000 units. Of these, 2,000 units, or one-third, will be exported to China, 1,500 units each to North America and Europe/Australia, and 1,000 units are expected to be sold in the South Korean market.
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