While some manufacturers are still figuring out how to build performance EVs, Hyundai continues to blast forward with its second electric hot rod with its recent reveal of the 2026 IONIQ 6 N.
Like the IONIQ 5 N hatchback, the IONIQ 6 N sedan is a high-performance, track-ready beast. It's powered by an 84-kWh battery and front (223 hp) and rear (378 hp) electric motors that produce a combined 601 horsepower. A boost mode increases peak output to 641 horsepower. Maximum torque is rated at 568 pounds-feet.
So, it鈥檚 fast, right? It sure is.
With N Launch Control, the IONIQ 6 N has a 0-100 km/h (62 mph) time of 3.2 seconds, and its top speed is rated at 257 km/h (160 mph).
IONIQ 6 N embodies Hyundai鈥檚 N philosophy, which has three pillars: Corner Rascal, Racetrack Capability, and Everyday Sportscar. Basically, it means the car is built for track days but is also comfortable and refined for regular everyday driving.
Apart from its powertrain, a key element of the IONIQ 6 N is its suspension tuning, which features redesigned geometry for better handling and grip. The suspension is designed for both track thrashing and comfort needed for daily driving. The car has a lowered center of gravity for better high-speed stability and improved cornering grip but is also suited for driving on public roads.
The IONIQ 6 N also benefits from stroke sensing electronically controlled suspension dampers, which adjust damping force for various driving conditions from road to track.
Like IONIQ 5 N, IONIQ 6 N benefits from Hyundai鈥檚 motorsports programs, which the company calls its 鈥渞olling lab鈥� initiatives. Among these are the N Battery which has been re-engineered for better temperature management, and adapts to different tracking scenarios, including drag, sprint, or endurance racing.
The car鈥檚 battery conditioning functions have been integrated for higher and longer-lasting performance. Thermal management has also been improved, and battery coolant heater capacity is increased to reduce conditioning time.
IONIQ 6 N鈥檚 design has also been influenced by racing. Aerodynamic elements such as the swan neck rear wing and widened fenders improve downforce and reduce drag while also providing stability during high-speed cornering.
As is the case with other N cars, IONIQ 6 N comes with a load of standard performance features, all beginning with the letter N. We mentioned N Battery, and N Launch Control, but here are a few others.
N Grin Boost 鈥� maximum acceleration for 10 seconds; maximum power increase and max motor responsiveness for overtaking
N Drift Optimizer 鈥� individual level control for customizable drift settings; Initiation (RTO), Angle (ESC), and Wheel Spin (TCS)
N Torque Distribution 鈥� fully variable front and rear torque distribution with 11 adjustable levels
N e-Shift 鈥� virtual gear shifting
N Ambient Shift Light 鈥� cabin light that provides cues for precise shift points
A few notes before wrapping up. The IONIQ 6 N rides on 20-inch wheels wrapped in Pirelli P-Zero 5 summer tires that were designed specifically for the car.
Hyundai鈥檚 official statement didn鈥檛 mention interior features, or projected driving range, but did provide a list of exterior colors. They are Performance Blue Pearl (new), Abyss Black Pearl, Serenity White Pearl, Nocturne Gray Metallic, Nocturne Gray Matte, and Gravity Gold Matte. Availability could vary by market, but most should be available in North America.
The 2026 IONIQ 6 N goes on sale in its Korean home market in September, by year鈥檚 end in Europe, and early next year in North America. Hyundai says the car will launch with a range of N performance parts. The company says, 鈥渢hese components let customers further personalize their vehicle and experience track-inspired performance on the street or circuit.鈥�
More information, including pricing, will be released closer to launch.
Photos courtesy of Hyundai Motor America
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