The Hyundai Ioniq 6 N Represents the Concept of a Halo Car in 2025.

      Hyundai

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      When halo cars come to mind, I typically think of high-end models like the Porsche 918 Spyder or Ford GT. I could even consider the Nissan GT-R as a halo car due to its cultural significance. However, Hyundai's Performance Development Tech Unit chief Manfred Harrer recently referred to the Ioniq 6 N as a halo car, which caught me off guard. Is he correct? Can we genuinely classify an electric sedan as a halo car in 2025?

      I'm conflicted, not because the car is underwhelming—I actually find the idea appealing—but because it compels me to confront how much cars have evolved since my youth. Change was inevitable; it's hard for anything to remain static in our world. I can't help but question if this vehicle, despite its 641 horsepower and impressive features, qualifies as a halo car.

      To clarify the quote I’m referencing, here it is from Australia's Drive site (unrelated to us):

      “We are aware about it,” Harrer stated regarding the limited demand for a vehicle like the Ioniq 6 N. “These are small volumes, and we also hit the limit regarding affordability for our customer base and fans face reality. We know this.

      “But to justify the development cost and the engineering effort behind it, it’s more for… It’s a halo, it helps the brand. It shows our capabilities. That’s the purpose behind it.”

      When I consider his perspective, I can understand it. The Ioniq 6 N is certainly a significant achievement for the brand. It's worth noting the transformation Hyundai has undergone. Just ten years ago, it didn’t have any N performance models, but now, the sub-brand competes with more established names like BMW M and Mercedes-AMG. While there isn’t a two-door Hyundai supercar available yet, the Ioniq 6 N surpasses what the German automakers have achieved with electric sedans (with the exception of Porsche).

      This vehicle boasts dual-motor all-wheel drive, allowing it to accelerate to 60 miles per hour in 3.2 seconds. It has the capability to precondition its battery for drag, track, and endurance performance. Unless you’re exceptionally skilled, I doubt anyone could fully exploit this car’s potential on a road course. It’s certainly impressive.

      Hyundai

      There’s no precise definition for "halo car" in Webster’s. If you asked me to define it beyond all this, I’d argue it represents a car company’s pinnacle technological achievement that delivers enhanced performance. The Ioniq 6 N undoubtedly fits this description, as it builds upon everything from the 5 N, enhancing it even further. Whether you love or dislike the gimmicky N e-Shift faux gearbox, Hyundai ensured it minimizes power loss while working in conjunction with launch control, drift mode, and push-to-pass features. They even tuned the acoustics to make the futuristic sounds even more enjoyable.

      I don’t see the point in comparing the Ioniq 6 N to a 918 Spyder. It’s a Hyundai, not a Porsche, and that’s perfectly acceptable. It might indeed be a halo car, but it still feels quite strange to say it aloud.

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