Central to this initiative was the inaugural IONIQ 6 design competition, a playground for LASALLE students to flex their artistic muscles and reimagine vehicle decals.  

Five finalists from LASALLE’s Diploma in Design for Communication and Experiences programme were tasked with creating decal designs that encapsulate the car’s sleek, modern essence.

Under the mentorship of Singaporean artist Toby Tan, better known as @tobyato, these young talents had the rare chance to marry creative flair with industry insights.  

Students developed their concepts, iterated through feedback, and even brainstormed social media strategies to showcase their work. Toby Tan, whose own vibrant designs have graced Hyundai’s IONIQ 5, brought a wealth of expertise and a collaborative spirit to the table, pushing the students to stretch their limits.  

For 17-year-old Ngo Quynh Phuong, a first-year student at LASALLE, the competition turned into a life-changing opportunity. Her design not only won the judges over but also earned her an all-expenses-paid trip to Seoul, South Korea.

There, she dived headfirst into Hyundai’s design philosophy, visiting the famed Hyundai Motorstudio Goyang and interacting with the creative minds behind the IONIQ 6.  

Phuong’s reflections encapsulate the essence of this initiative. “Meeting the designers of a world-class car was surreal. It brought my studies to life and showed me how art and innovation can reshape the world,” she shared.  

This partnership with LASALLE is part of a broader strategy to empower youth and elevate Singapore’s creative landscape. Beyond honing artistic skills, Hyundai provides experiences (branding, marketing, and real-world design challenges) that prepare students for a dynamic industry.  

Dr Hyun Sung Park, CEO of HMGICS, summed it up best: “We’re committed to shaping a sustainable future where creativity and technology redefine mobility. By empowering local talent, we are co-creating a future that combines innovation and beauty.”  

The winning IONIQ 6 design will be publicly showcased in early 2025.

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Sitting among some familiar and, a few not-so familiar faces at Komoco Motors, we were all gathered here for Hyundai’s “Great Electric Escape” with the made-in-Singapore IONIQ 6.

Over three days, we’d be driving to Kuala Lumpur and back, immersing ourselves in a journey where art, nature, and city energy combined with the sheer thrill of going electric.

Day 1: Hitting the Road with New Friends and Fresh Energy

After grabbing a coffee and rubbing the last traces of sleep from my eyes, I met my driving companions, actress Constance Lau and Chow Jia Hui, an established content creator and 98.7 FM DJ.

Their energy was infectious, to say the least, immediately bringing a sense of lightness and excitement to our morning. Following a quick media briefing, we slipped behind the wheel and headed out, cruising up the highway in convoy with three models of the IONIQ 6:

• IONIQ 6 Prestige 53 kWh (RWD)
• IONIQ 6 Prestige 77 kWh (RWD)
• IONIQ 6 Inspiration 77 kWh (AWD)

Each a smooth and quiet powerhouse.

We made our first and quick pit stop at Gelang Patah, where I found myself leaning against our silver IONIQ 6, watching the early morning mist dissipate as the sun rose, anticipating the next few days ahead.

After more North-South Highway driving, we eventually reached our first recharge stop at Shell Recharge Seremban. As we watched the car power up, I marvelled at how Hyundai had brought its electric expertise from Seoul to Singapore and now to Malaysia, showing that going electric isn’t just about technology, it’s about bridging cultures and countries.

Heading to Bakul at The Five for lunch was a welcome pause, and I found myself savouring each bite of fusion Dim Sum, the stylish ambience perfectly complementing our easy-going morning.

The afternoon had us exploring our artistic side with a tufting workshop in KL, where we got to weave our own designs in the shape of an IONIQ 6 – a quirky, hands-on touch to the day.

Then it was time to check in at the W Hotel, a high-energy haven where we regrouped for dinner. We dined, swapped stories and topped the evening off with a drink at the Wet Deck which boasts a spectacular view of the iconic Petronas Twin Towers.

Day 2: Embracing the Thrills and Serenity of Malaysia’s Back Roads

Day two kicked off with a breakfast that could tempt anyone to linger, but we had a date with Colmar Tropicale, an almost fairytale village tucked among Malaysia’s Berjaya hills, off the Karak Highway.

Much of my time in the car was as a passenger for this leg of the drive, but nonetheless, feeling the IONIQ 6 snake along the winding roads to The Chateau in Colmar was impressive. The car’s handling on twists and curves was so smooth it felt like it was dancing.

There’s nothing quite like seeing an EV showcase its torque and responsiveness on a scenic mountain route!

Lunch took us to Farm to Plate, where the laid-back vibes reminded us to slow down and enjoy the journey – a nice counterpoint to the adrenaline of mountain driving.

By late afternoon, we were back at the W Hotel for a sound bath session. Lying back with my eyes closed, I felt a deep calm wash over me. Ok, I’ll be honest, I fell asleep. But it was an eye, or should I say, an ear-opening experience that was a reprieve from the fairly high-energy trip so far.

Dinner that night was at Fuego Sky Dining, with yet another stunning rooftop view. The evening took a celebratory turn as we gathered to celebrate a birthday in our group. Under a sky full of stars, with laughter, toasts, and a few unexpected desserts, the night felt magical.

We were all reminded that this journey wasn’t just about destinations, it was also about connections, whether with our driving companions, the places we visited, or the memories we made along the way. I realised then that the IONIQ 6 was helping us create memories that somehow felt both exhilarating and deeply personal.

Day 3: Wrapping Up with Reflection and Farewell

Our final day began with a bittersweet breakfast as we geared up for the last leg of our journey. Heading to Petronas, Air Hitam, I found myself marvelling at how natural and easy the IONIQ 6 felt.

In the city, it was easy to pilot around tight and heavy traffic with its instantaneous response, on the highway, the car felt really stable at (really) high speeds. Putting it in i-pedal regeneration mode also really helped to keep battery efficiency high.

Our drive back was one filled with quiet conversations, contemplative moments, and a collective sense of appreciation for everything the trip had given us.

Lunch at Marui by The Tins was a cosy affair, and as we enjoyed our last meal together, I thought about how this journey had taken me from the bustling city streets of KL to tranquil natural hideaways and back home with a fresh perspective on driving.

This was an invitation into the future of electric driving, a glimpse of how Hyundai has transformed a simple road trip into an artful, eco-friendly experience.

As I crossed the Causeway back to Singapore, watching the IONIQ 6 settle back into the city’s familiar rhythm, I felt a kind of peace that only comes from adventure.

It’s 4:30 pm, I feel as tired as I was three days ago when I stepped into the Komoco Motors showroom. But only because the Great Electric Escape had truly lived up to its name.

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Avid readers of AutoApp will not be strangers to the Hyundai Ioniq 6. We’ve tested practically the entire range at this point, and each variant continues to charm us with market-leading specs and thoughtful practicality.

Though, I’ll wager this single-motor long-range variant is the cream of the crop.

It just feels right

For prospective buyers, this is essentially the Cat B Ioniq 6. Hyundai has kept it simple with a 77kWh battery feeding a rear-mounted motor, and you only get one trim option – Prestige. If you want the fancier Inspiration trim, you’ll have to throw in another motor for the dual-motor setup. 

To me, this is the sweet spot. You don’t get the sluggishness of the Cat A variant, nor the neck-snapping speed of the dual motor.

With a century sprint time of 7.4 seconds, it strikes a nice balance of power. EVs come with the added bonus of instant torque, so a quick tap on the throttle is all you need to weave through city traffic with ease.

Surprisingly, the Ioniq 6 is also quite engaging when you throw it into corners. Thanks to its low centre of gravity, it feels planted and balanced, even when the road starts to twist.

Hyundai hasn’t skimped on the details either. One notable feature are the steering wheel paddles that let you toggle through different levels of regenerative braking. It’s all intuitive, something you’ll quickly get used to and appreciate.

Despite all the tech under the skin, driving the Ioniq 6 doesn’t feel like you’re operating a spaceship. It’s refined, smooth, and comfortable. Hyundai’s thoughtful engineering shines through here.

Like you’re on a cloud

Around town, the Ioniq 6 is an effortless, smooth operator. Light steering combined with the electric motor’s instant power delivery means it’s got a real bite at junctions, and it’s nimble when it needs to be. Even with the hammer down, it stays composed.

The ride is generally comfortable. Sure, sharper undulations in the road might jolt you a little, but it’s a fair trade-off considering the Ioniq 6 has more confident road-holding than its sibling, the Ioniq 5. On the highway, it’s quiet, delivering you to your destination with calm efficiency. 

But what about range?

The uprated 77kWh battery offers up to 614km of range, so you’ve got plenty of stretch before needing to recharge.

And when you do need to juice up, it supports up to 350kW from a DC charger, meaning you’ll be back on the road in under 20 minutes.

You either like the design or you don’t

Hyundai’s definitely betting on the Ioniq 6 to catch eyes and drop jaws. Whether you love or loathe its design, there’s no denying the Ioniq 6 has presence.

Credit to the design team for going bold. The Ioniq 6 borrows from vintage “streamliners” like the 1930s Art Deco Stout Scarab, blending that retro vibe with a distinctly modern twist. It’s a remastered take on the kind of design that made cars in the ’80s iconic.

This car’s got an impressive drag coefficient of 0.22, helping you squeeze out every last mile of range. Is anyone else getting nostalgic Saab 900 vibes?

Modern family

Step inside the Ioniq 6, and you’re greeted by a cabin that’s all about sleek minimalism. Think of it as a modern lounge on wheels.

Hyundai’s gone with a dual infotainment screen setup that’s easy on the eyes, with plenty of breathing room around the controls. It’s functional and intuitive, though the drive select stalk is a bit shy.

Climate controls have their own dedicated controls (thankfully), and the infotainment system delivers clean, crisp graphics with a driver’s display that feeds you all the important stuff without bombarding you.

No wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto just yet; you’re stuck with the wired version for now.

Storage-wise, there’s plenty in the centre console, but the door bins? A bit too slim, like trying to shove your wallet into skinny jeans.

There’s lots of room

No transmission hump means the rear legroom is pretty generous. Honestly, you could sit on the floor back there. The sloping roofline might make taller passengers feel a bit snug, but Hyundai had the foresight to lower the seat height to compensate.

At 401 litres, the boot is not exactly class-leading. Plus, the narrow opening doesn’t help much when you’re trying to load larger items.

There’s also a bit of storage under the bonnet, perfect for stashing away dirty or unwanted gear.

My money’s on this variant

The Ioniq 6 is a well-rounded package. Hyundai hasn’t gone overboard with the tech, but it’s loaded with enough modern features to feel practical and ahead of the curve. If you’re after an EV that stands out for both its design and performance, the Ioniq 6 is absolutely worth considering.

Fast, practical, and just the right amount of quirky. It’s got something for everyone.

Technical Specifications

Hyundai Ioniq 6 (Prestige 77kWh)

Engine: Single Electric Motor

Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive
Power: 168 kW (225 bhp)
Torque: 350 Nm
Gearbox: Single-Speed (A)
0-100km/h: 7.4 seconds (claimed)
Top Speed: 185 km/h
Battery Capacity: 77 kWh
Drive Range: 614 km (claimed)
Energy Consumption: 7 km/kWh (claimed)

Price: S$232,800 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)
Contact: Hyundai Singapore

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

Read more automotive news at AutoApp, or check out our latest videos on Ignition Labs TV and on TikTok!

The Hyundai Ioniq 6 took the world by storm when it was first launched, subsequently bagging awards left and right from folks around the globe. 

The streamliner seemed to have struck a sweet spot amongst journalists and customers alike. And Hyundai Singapore, wanting to expand its lineup of products, have since launched a more COE-friendly Cat A variant.

Cat A? Is there enough power?

Unlike the Cat B variants, the Cat A Ioniq 6 keeps it simple with just one battery option – a 53kWh cell feeding a rear-mounted motor. You can opt for either the Exclusive (base) or Prestige (premium) variant, but changes only occur features-wise; power for both trims remains the same at 143bhp. 

Yes, this is essentially a detune of the Cat B car, but crucially you still receive the same 350Nm of torque.

To no surprise, the Ioniq 6’s century sprint time has taken a bit of a hit, now needing 9.4 seconds. But, out on the streets, you most likely won’t feel that this car is lagging behind traffic. EVs have the distinct advantage of having instant torque at your disposal, and a quick tap of the throttle is still effective in cutting through traffic with ease.

So, if you were someone concerned about power, don’t worry, there’s sufficient grunt for your needs.

But what about handling? 

Around town, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 53kWh is a smooth operator. Light steering coupled with the electric motor’s prompt power delivery means it’s got bite at junctions, being nimble when the situation calls for it. 

Ride comfort is decent, and highway cruising is a serene affair, but sharper undulations in the road will send jolts into the cabin. A fair trade-off considering the Ioniq 6 has a more confident grip on the road than the Ioniq 5.

It’s comfortable, fairly hushed, and delivers you to your destination in relatively silent efficiency.

My concern is range

We hear you. That streamlined facade means it can stretch its legs, giving you up to 429km of range.

That is a claimed figure from Hyundai, but even so, the car does come darn well close. My media stint totalled 350km, and there was still 20% left in its battery, so fair play to Hyundai.

And considering it can guzzle up to 350kW from a DC charger, you’ll be out of that charging station in less than 20 minutes. 

You still get the same good looks

Hyundai’s banking on the Ioniq 6’s eye-catching looks to make it stand out, and it’s a grand entrance indeed. 

Now, the aesthetics might trigger a love-it-or-hate-it reaction. But opinions are like rims; everyone’s got their favourite set.

Kudos to the design squad for taking a bold step, fashioning the Ioniq 6 with sleek curves inspired by vintage “streamliners” like the Art Deco Stout Scarab from the 1930s. A modern remaster of the throwback-to-the-80s era of design.

It’s not all looks either; this beauty boasts a drag coefficient of 0.22, designed to milk the most out of every mile. The front bumper flaunts active air flaps that minimise resistance and maximise cooling.

And that rear spoiler array really gives off Saab 900 flashbacks, don’t you think?

And the same spacious cabin

Stepping into the Hyundai Ioniq 6 feels like entering a sleek, minimalist lounge. Comfortable seats (though those headrests are a bit quirky) and an overall vibe of simplicity make this a refined space to be in.

The dual infotainment screens are laid out with some purposeful blank space around them, keeping things easy on the eyes and user-friendly. The drive select stalk is a bit shy, hiding behind the steering wheel, but otherwise everything else is placed just where you’d expect it to be.

Climate controls have their own dedicated area, and the infotainment system boasts clean graphics and a driver’s display that gives you all the info you need without being overwhelming.

Unfortunately, as of now the Ioniq 6 does not support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; only the wired version is offered.

The centre console has plenty of storage space, but the door bins are a bit too slim, like trying to fit a big wallet into skinny jeans. 

Room for the family

Without a transmission hump, there’s plenty of legroom in the back, which is a nice surprise. You could practically sit on the floor back there!

The only catch is the sloping roofline; taller passengers might feel a bit squeezed, but Hyundai has thoughtfully lowered the seat height to counteract this.

Now, the boot. It’s not exactly class-leading. At 401 litres, it falls short compared to the Polestar 2, Tesla Model 3, and BMW i4, plus the narrow opening limits cargo volume.

But hey, you can fold down the rear seats (60/40 split) to give yourself a bit more space. And there’s also a handy storage area under the bonnet for stashing your charging cables.

All-rounder

The Cat A Hyundai Ioniq 6 53kWh still retains what you love from its faster (and more expensive) siblings, but packages it in a more palatable package.

In essence, it’s a damn well-rounded package. It doesn’t go too overboard with the tech, yet it’s packed with modern features that make it practical and forward-thinking.

If you’re after something that stands out from the crowd, both in design and performance, the Ioniq 6 is a solid contender.

Technical Specifications

Hyundai Ioniq 6 Electric (Prestige 53kWh)

Engine: Single Electric Motor
Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive
Power: 107 kW (143 bhp)
Torque: 350 Nm
Gearbox: Single-Speed (A)
0-100km/h: 9.4 seconds (claimed)
Top Speed: 185 km/h
Battery Capacity: 53 kWh
Drive Range: 519 km (claimed)
Energy Consumption: 7.2 km/kWh (claimed)

Price: S$201,150 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)
Contact: Hyundai Singapore

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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This year, it’s happening at Wheeler’s Estate in Seletar, from 31 August to 1 September 2024.

If you missed out last year, here’s your chance to jump behind the wheel of the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6. Throughout the event, attendees can take these electric vehicles for a spin. Plus, there’s a little something extra for those who complete a test drive; complimentary Hyundai merchandise and free drinks and dessert to enjoy.

This year’s Ioniq Brews & Drives promises much more, blending technology, fun, and a bit of friendly competition. Explore interactive displays featuring the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6, and get your cameras ready because the Ioniq Brews & Drives photo contest is back.

Snap your best shot with any of the Ioniq vehicles or stations, post it on Instagram, tag @hyundai.innovation.sg, and don’t forget to include the hashtag #HMGICS.

Not only could you win bragging rights, but you might also walk away with some fantastic prizes. Make sure your account is set to public to qualify, and keep an eye out on 9 September 2024 for the winner announcement.

Attendees who decide to purchase an Ioniq 5 or Ioniq 6 during the event also stand a chance to win retail vouchers worth up to $300, along with exclusive Hyundai merchandise like Ioniq 5 diecast models and diffusers.

Event Details

Date: 31 August – 1 September 2024
Time: 10 am to 6 pm
Venue: Wheeler’s Estate, 2 Park Lane, Singapore 798386
Parking: On-site visitor parking is available

And don’t worry about leaving anyone behind. Ioniq Brews & Drives is designed to be kid- and animal-friendly, so bring the whole family along for a weekend of entertainment and electric excitement.

For more information about the event, and to sign up for a test drive, visit this helpful bit of highlighted text.

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Following the success of the award-winning IONIQ 5 and the IONIQ 5 robotaxi, the IONIQ 6 marks another milestone in Hyundai’s EV lineup.

Manufactured at HMGICS, Singapore’s first and only EV production smart facility, the IONIQ 6 benefits from an automated and intelligent cell-based production platform.

This allows Hyundai to respond swiftly to the diverse needs of Singaporean drivers, using advanced technologies such as AI, Robotics, and Digital Twin to ensure flexibility in production.

Dr Hyun Sung Park, CEO of HMGICS, shared, “Following the success and interest in the IONIQ 5 and the IONIQ 5 robotaxi, we are pleased to launch our next made-in-Singapore EV, the IONIQ 6. We believe that the IONIQ 6 will offer an elevated quality and driving experience for customers in Singapore, easing the adoption of EVs and contributing to Singapore’s sustainable ecosystem and mobility journey.”

The IONIQ 6 is no stranger to our market; we previously gave it an award in AutoApp’s Car Of The Year 2024. Overseas, it has secured titles like World Car of the Year 2023, World Electric Vehicle of the Year 2023, and World Car Design of the Year 2023.

As Hyundai’s first EV sedan, it offers a streamlined silhouette that boasts an impressive aerodynamic coefficient of 0.217 CD and a range of up to 614 km (WLTP). The second model to feature Hyundai’s Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), it offers ample space for passengers and luggage.

The made-in-Singapore IONIQ 6 is available in four trims:

• Inspiration (77 kWh, Cat B)
• Prestige (77 kWh, Cat B)
• Prestige (53 kWh, Cat A)
• Exclusive (53 kWh, Cat A)

As a benchmark, the long-range Prestige (77 kWh) 2WD model offers a range of up to 614 km (WLTP), balancing distance and performance.

Local production also brings enhanced connectivity features like Bluelink and OTA software updates. Bluelink offers online voice recognition and a host of convenient features, while OTA updates ensure the latest maps and infotainment features are always at your fingertips, reducing the need for dealership visits.

Hyundai is partnering with various companies to enhance EV charging solutions, addressing a key concern for potential EV adopters. For home charging, Hyundai has teamed up with Schneider Electric to offer an industry-leading three-year warranty and a new charger.

Mobile charging provider P.UP will offer five charges a month for up to 12 months, along with emergency rescue services, including emergency charging, 12V battery replacement, and towing.

Hyundai customers can also leverage destination charging services from Charge+ across Singapore and the region, including Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Cambodia. Hyundai’s partnership with Singapore Power Mobility (SPM) further expands destination charging services.

The made-in-Singapore Hyundai IONIQ 6 is now available for pre-booking. Interested customers can visit the HMGICS website from 16:00 SGT on July 19, 2024, to check out pricing and secure their vehicle.

For those who want to experience the IONIQ 6 firsthand, test drives are available at Komoco Motors at 253 Alexandra Road, Singapore 159936 (Tel: 6475 8888).

Read more automotive news at AutoApp, or check out our latest videos on Ignition Labs TV and on TikTok!

(Article updated 25 October 2023)

Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 is one of the defining cars of the past few years – a vehicle with a polarising bold design and tech to boot, marking the Korean automaker’s emergence as a real dominant superpower, particularly in the electric vehicle segment. Now the company is aiming to build on that success with the Ioniq 6, a swoopy new saloon that’s hot off the press in Singapore.

The nomenclature might lead you to expect the 6 to be positioned a notch above the 5, but that isn’t quite the case. There is a premium, but it’s a modest one, and both cars fit different roles on the EV spectrum.

But, just how good of an EV is the Ioniq 6?

A Bold Entrance

Hyundai’s banking on the Ioniq 6’s eye-catching looks to make it stand out, and let me tell you, it’s a grand entrance indeed. Kudos to the design squad; they’ve taken a bold step here. They could’ve just scaled down the Giugiaro-inspired Ioniq 5, and folks would’ve nodded in approval. 

But, Hyundai decided to take the high road, fashioning the Ioniq 6 with sleek curves inspired by vintage “streamliners” like the Art Deco Stout Scarab from the 1930s. A modern remaster of the throwback-to-the-80s era of design.

It’s not all looks either; this beauty boasts a drag coefficient of 0.22, designed to milk the most out of every mile. The front bumper flaunts active air flaps that play peekaboo with the wind, minimizing resistance and maximising cooling.

And that rear spoiler array really gives off Saab 900 charisma, don’t you think?

Now, this ride’s aesthetics might trigger a love-it-or-hate-it reaction. But hey, opinions are like rims – everyone’s got their favourite set. Me? I’m in the former camp, loving every curve and edge. The Ioniq 6 doesn’t just look avant-garde; it lives it.

Business-Class Cabin

Step inside, and the Ioniq 6’s interior design is a modern affair. The cabin colour palette offers a monochrome choice of grey or black; go for the lighter shade, and you’ll be soaking in an aura of spaciousness. It’s like stepping into a lounge – comfortable seats (except for those quirky headrests) and a setup that oozes simplicity.

The dual infotainment screens sit amidst some intentional blank space, making the experience smooth and user-friendly. The drive select stalk might be playing hide-and-seek behind the wheel, but the rest is right where you’d expect them.

Climate controls have their own dedicated array; a huge relief for driving – no more finger gymnastics with menus like in the BMW i4. The infotainment system’s graphics are clean, menus are intuitive, and the driver’s display delivers all the info you need.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto? Check. Wireless charging pad and USB port? Check. Nifty centre console with ample storage for your various bits and bobs? All good chief.

The glovebox? Well, it’s a drawer now – old-school charm with a dash of modern. But hold on, the door bins aren’t quite what you’d hope for. Yes, they’re transparent, but they’re slim, like fitting a water bottle in skinny jeans. But don’t stress; the extra storage space in the middle compensates.

Now, let’s venture to the back. With no transmission hump, there’s a shocking amount of foot and knee room. Heck, you could sit on the floor if you’ve tried.

However, the sweeping roofline might play spoilsport for taller folks, but Hyundai’s played with the seat height to keep headroom issues at bay.

The only slight discrepancy is the boot. At 401 litres, it trails behind the Polestar 2, the Tesla Model 3, and the BMW i4. The opening aperture? Well, it’s not winning any awards either. But, you can fold the rear seats (60/40 split) for extra cargo room. The Ioniq 6 does boast a bonnet stash. Not the deepest, but still handy for charging cables.

Otherwise, it’s a pretty well-sorted package. The Ioniq 6 does well by not going too overboard, and it retains its practicality amid the incorporation of new-fangled tech.

Power-Packed Journeys

Unlike its 5 sibling, the Ioniq 6 keeps it simple with a 77.4kWh battery paired with dual motors, yielding all-wheel drive and a nifty 325hp with 605Nm of torque.

On the handling front, it’s not just a casual shift; it’s a leap. The 6 shares the E-GMP platform with the 5 but stretches over 20cm longer. Longer, with extended overhangs, yet it’s a whole 11cm shorter in height. And that translates to a lower centre of gravity, which provides tighter body control, and a sharper steering response. Cornering? It’s like writing your name with a flourish, confident strokes all the way.

Around town, the Ioniq 6 is a smooth operator. Light steering coupled with the electric motors’ prompt power delivery means it’s punchy at junctions, and nimble in tight spots. 

Of course, these good traits have to have trade-offs, and ride comfort is where the Ioniq 5 takes the cake. The 6 isn’t uncomfortable by any means, but it’s got a tad more firmness to its ride. Yet, it’s a fair deal; the 5 might be soft, but it can be floaty. The 6? It’s got a more confident grip on the road, but it doesn’t shy away from the occasional road bump dance.

Now, when you hit the highway, things change a bit. Cabin quietness is compromised a little by tire chatter on rough roads and a dash of wind hum around those wing mirrors. But hey, on those long stretches up North, the Ioniq 6 is your dependable pal. It’s comfortable, fairly hushed, and delivers you to your destination in relatively silent efficiency.

That streamlined facade means it can stretch its legs up to 519km, as claimed on paper. Like all EVs, it falls short of its target figures. But, it comes darn well close. My media stint totalled 400km, and there was still 20% left in its battery, so fair play to Hyundai. It’s not all gloom too; this ride’s no stranger to fast-charging stations. It can guzzle up to 232kW from a DC charger, taking that battery from 10% to 80% in a neat 20 minutes.

(update: 25 October 2023)

Our resident Saab-for-life enthusiast Vivek was chomping at the bits to get his grubby mitts on the steering wheel of the IONIQ 6. When he FINALLY stopped waxing lyrical about “the Korean Saab”, he went away to do his usual economy testing thingamajig.

With an overall average energy economy of 14.6kWh/100km or 6.9km/kWh across 486.7km, he bested Hyundai’s claimed 16.9kWh/100km or 5.9km/kWh WLTP average by quite a margin.

Driving smoothly is key, despite the IONIQ 6’s tempting 321hp and 605Nm which can be addicting when unleashed. Naturally, your mileage may vary based on use-case and driving conditions, but it just goes to show that good economy is there for the taking if one so chooses.

(/update)

In essence, this is a huge step up from the Ioniq 5 dynamic-wise, and the Ioniq 6 holds itself to a pretty high standard.

Big Improvements All Around

The Hyundai Ioniq 6 might have a few quirks up its sleeve, but it definitely has the moves to charm prospective EV buyers in Singapore. It’s like the Ioniq 5’s cooler, more refined sibling. The exterior facade might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s the dance within that matters. It’s got the strengths of the 5, sprinkled with an extra dose of charisma.

It’s on track to be the 2023 EV star, and boy, it’s not shy about it. That’s why I feel it’s great.

Technical Specifications

Hyundai Ioniq 6 Electric 

Engine: Two Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors
Power: 239kW (321bhp)
Torque: 605Nm
Gearbox: Single-Speed (A)
0-100km/h: 5.1 seconds (claimed)
Top Speed: 185km/h
Battery Capacity: 77.4 kWh
Drive Range: 519 km (claimed)
Energy Consumption: 5.9 km/kWh (claimed)

Price: S$272,888 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)
Contact: Hyundai Singapore

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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“A new model every quarter over the next two years,” was declared during the address to the media at the local launch of the Hyundai Ioniq 6 and preview of the Hyundai Kona Hybrid at the showroom of official dealer, Komoco Motors. 

If the two new models unveiled on 14 July are anything to go by, it looks like Hyundai is set to be a roll. 

First up, the Ioniq 6 is an EV sedan that, according to the Korean manufacturer, is capable of a range of up to 519km. Priced starting from $257,888 with COE, this car finds itself in a burgeoning segment of EVs with offerings from Audi, Polestar, Volvo, and compatriot Kia. Stretch another $25k or so and the Mercedes-Benz range of EQ crossovers will come within reach.

In any case, the Ioniq 6 appears to have the right stuff to take on alternatives from the aforementioned competitors. For starters, it’s futuristic styling looks like something Porsche might design if it were commissioned by Hyundai to create an EV sedan. Others in attendance could also be overheard likening it to early Saab models. In either case, there’s a timeless desirability to its shape. 

Step inside, and the impression improves, if anything. The feel of the cabin materials and design has not only surpassed anything that Hyundai has made up until now, but it arguably surpasses the standards of many mass production carmakers you might care to name. 

Although the Ioniq 6 for the Singapore market goes without the electronic camera wing mirrors that have been teased on the international press kits, drivers are unlikely to mind or even notice at all.

Against the stiff competition, the Ioniq 6 should hold its own in the performance department as well. An electric motor for each axle effectively gives this model all-wheel drive and works in tandem to produce up to 325hp and 605Nm of torque. It sports a drag coefficient of just 0.22 and in tandem with its 77kW battery pack, which can be charged from 10-80% in just 18 minutes, allows the Ioniq 6 its impressive 519km claimed range. 0-100km/h is quoted at 5.1 seconds.

Aloha Kona

Ask very nicely and the Hyundai sales representatives at the showroom might just let you into the special lounge created to preview the all-new Kona Hybrid.

Hyundai tends to name its Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) after evocative cities in the United States and so the Kona takes its name from a town in Hawaii that’s especially famous for its coffee. 

Strictly speaking, the Kona is not yet on sale in Singapore as the car is undergoing local homologation. So exact specifications and features are yet to be finalized. However, Expressions Of Interest are being collected.

A fully-electric version of the Kona will eventually make its way to our shores but for now, the Hybrid model promises a mix of drivability, fuel economy, and convenience from its 1.6-litre hybrid petrol-electric drivetrain. 

In addition to the distinctive exterior styling, one highlight that Kona customers can look forward to is that this crossover shares many interior design cues with the upmarket Ioniq 6. For example, the column-mounted gear selector on the right is an interesting touch. 

A closer look around the Kona preview lounge reveals eight surfboards displayed on either side of the room. These are cleverly painted in the colours that the Kona will be available in when it is expected to go on sale as soon as August.

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