The Boy-Racer Hyundai Ioniq 6 N Is a Manual-Shift Electric Sedan Offering 641 HP.

      Hyundai

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      Hyundai is maintaining its electrified performance car vibe with the debut of the Ioniq 6 N at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. This new model builds on the strengths of the Ioniq 5 N, which was our EV of the year in 2024, presenting them in a more classic performance sedan format. The Ioniq 6 showcases impressive credentials—641 horsepower and a 0 to 60 mph time of just 3.2 seconds—alongside significant handling enhancements that are expected to surpass those of its hot hatch counterpart.

      There’s no mistaking the 6 N for a standard Ioniq. Car enthusiasts will immediately notice the swan neck rear wing, but anyone can recognize the distinctive black-and-red accents, particularly when paired with the new Performance Blue Pearl paint. (While Performance Blue was already the signature color for Hyundai N, this iteration features a pearl finish, which is a clever touch.) Being a 2026 model, it also sports a refreshed front end highlighted by sharp LED lights.

      Hyundai

      The Ioniq 6 N features a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive system with a total output of 601 hp, boosting to 641 hp during short bursts thanks to the N Grin Boost mode. For those unfamiliar with this feature from the Ioniq 5 N, it optimizes acceleration for 10 seconds while enhancing motor responsiveness for on-track overtaking.

      The Ioniq 6 N is packed with additional exciting features that deserve attention. One notable improvement is the upgraded N e-Shift, engineered to reduce performance loss during “gear changes” in this sporty version. This time, it integrates with specialized performance functions such as N Launch Control, N Drift Optimizer, N Grin Boost, and N Torque Distribution. Recognizing the positive reception of this feature in the Ioniq 5 N, Hyundai decided to enhance it further.

      Hyundai

      The sound experience in this car is also getting an upgrade, thanks to enhanced cabin acoustics and audio systems. While it may sound trivial, the press release indicates that the N Active Sound + system will receive an upgrade akin to an X-pipe in exhaust systems; it’s not drastic, but rather a refined enhancement. According to Hyundai, this is achieved with an Acoustic Design Processor that “delivers an enriched sound stage that makes each journey aurally immersive,” whether set to the racing-themed Ignition mode or the futuristic Lightspeed mode.

      Moreover, the Ioniq 6 N can effectively manage its 84 kilowatt-hour battery for optimal power distribution while also conserving energy when needed. The N Battery mode allows it to pre-condition the cells for ideal temperatures suitable for drag, sprint, or endurance racing.

      Despite all these features, many consumers might not find them appealing. Thankfully, Hyundai has also focused on substantial mechanical advancements. The Ioniq 6 N is equipped with stroke-sensing, electronically controlled dampers that offer a broad range of adjustments, making it firm on the track yet comfortable for everyday driving. Hyundai also claims to have implemented “completely redesigned suspension geometry” along with a “reengineered chassis.” The lowered roll center improves cornering grip and enhances stability at higher speeds.

      Hyundai

      The Ioniq 5 N achieved success by offering an EV experience that “doesn’t feel like an EV at all.” The Ioniq 6 N continues in this vein, and I have every reason to believe that regardless of your feelings towards the 5, you'll likely have a similar perception of this model. It's a love-it or hate-it situation, and it's perfectly fine for cars to provoke strong opinions.

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