Hyundai IONIQ 6

Many electric cars are SUVs. The IONIQ 6 is a four-door saloon with a sloping roof, shaped to cut through the air, and that shape is the point: Hyundai quotes a drag coefficient of just 0.21 and a WLTP range of up to 338 miles (about 544 km). It suits drivers who cover a lot of miles and would rather have a low, efficient car than a tall one, and it took three awards at the 2023 World Car Awards, including World Car of the Year.

Range, batteries and charging

There is one battery in the UK, a 77 kWh pack, offered with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. An 800V system is fitted as standard. Hyundai says the car can accept up to 239 kW in optimal conditions, and that 10 to 80 percent takes as little as 18 to 36 minutes on a 350 kW charger. Treat those as best-case figures, because the time depends on the charger and the weather. The Charge myHyundai map shows chargers on selected routes.

Inside and on the road

Hyundai calls the cabin cocoon-shaped. The long wheelbase of the electric platform lets the designers stretch the interior for legroom, and dual-colour ambient lighting changes with your mood. Materials include eco-processed leather, recycled PET fabric and carpet made from recycled fishing nets. The front seats come with 8-way adjustment and can recline fully for a rest while charging. The all-wheel-drive car does 0 to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds. Optional digital side mirrors swap the door mirrors for cameras and interior screens.

Safety and assistance

Euro NCAP gave the IONIQ 6 five stars in 2022. Highway Driving Assist 2 is a Level 2 system that manages speed and distance and helps with lane changes.

Price and warranty

UK prices start from £47,050. Every Hyundai in the UK comes with a five year unlimited mileage warranty, and the battery is covered for eight years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Key facts

• Range: up to 338 miles (WLTP, about 544 km)
• Battery: 77 kWh
• DC charging: up to 239 kW
• Safety: Euro NCAP, 5 stars (2022)
• UK price from: £47,050