Five weeks in, and the Hyundai IONIQ 6 still has me thinking. This isn’t one of those cars you get into and immediately form a solid, unchanging opinion about. It challenges, intrigues, and sometimes even confounds. But the more time I spend with it, the more I see why it ultimately stood out as our Car of the Year 2025.

The design remains a hot topic. Some people absolutely love its streamlined, futuristic aesthetic, while others struggle to embrace it. I find myself caught somewhere in between—there are days when it looks stunning, almost sculptural, and others where I’m still trying to decide if it works from every angle. But perhaps that’s the point. The IONIQ 6 isn’t trying to be safe or conventional. It dares to be different, and in doing so, it stands apart in a world where most sedans have started to blur into each other.

Beyond the looks, it’s the way this car fits into real life that cements its award-winning status. The spacious and thoughtfully designed cabin makes every drive feel premium, even without an extravagant price tag. Hyundai has managed to blend form and function in a way that feels effortless—there’s no excess, no clutter, just smart design choices that prioritise comfort and usability. That inclusiveness is part of what makes it so compelling. Whether you’re an eco-conscious driver looking to cut your carbon footprint or a professional who wants something sleek and tech-savvy, the IONIQ 6 somehow ticks all the boxes.

Then there’s the driving experience. Five weeks in, and I still find myself enjoying how smooth and refined it feels on the road. The aerodynamic shape isn’t just for show—it contributes to a ride that feels effortless, whether I’m weaving through city traffic or cruising down expressways. And of course, there’s the instant torque that comes with EVs, making every launch satisfyingly quick.

But I keep wondering… what if this car had an extra edge? We already know Hyundai can do it—they’ve proven it with the IONIQ 5 N, showing the world that EVs can be thrilling and emotional machines. If Hyundai gives the IONIQ 6 the same treatment, it could be a real game-changer. Last week, I played around with some renders of the car with bigger wheels and a lower stance, and the difference was striking. It sharpened up the already unique design, hinting at the kind of performance potential that’s waiting to be unlocked.

That’s the thing about the IONIQ 6—it doesn’t just blend in, it dares to push boundaries. And that’s exactly why it earned its title as AutoApp’s Car of the Year 2025. It’s not just about affordability, though its pricing is undeniably competitive. It’s about the X-Factor, that seamless blend of value, versatility, and innovation that makes it more than just another EV.

So, as I wrap up week five, I realise the IONIQ 6 is a car that rewards time and attention. It’s not one you figure out in a single drive—it challenges you, makes you think, and ultimately convinces you in its own way. When you step back and look at the bigger picture, it’s clear why it deserves the spotlight.

Hyundai IONIQ 6 Long-Term Review:
Week One – Our long-term test drive kicks off
Week Two – Range anxiety – is it really an issue?
Week Three – Charging downtime has its perks
Week Four – What if I modified the IONIQ 6?
Week Five – More reasons why it really won our ACOTY