First Look at Hyundai’s Next Big Thing: Ioniq 6 N

First Sighting of Hyundai’s Ioniq 6 N Test Mule
What’s Different From the Current Model?

Hyundai is making a name for itself in the high-performance electric vehicle sector. The first pure electric vehicle from the high-performance division N, the Ioniq 5 N, has been well-received for its fun driving experience, top-notch heat management system, and affordable price for its performance.

As a result, there are high expectations for the upcoming Ioniq 6 N. Rumors suggest that it will have even more advanced features than the Ioniq 5 N. A prototype of this model was recently spotted for the first time.

Lower and wider proportions
Applied wheels similar to RN22e

According to foreign media reports, the Ioniq 6 N test mule was recently spotted during field testing in Germany. It seems to be using the body of the regular model, suggesting it’s still in the prototype stage. However, there are noticeable differences between this model and the regular one. The tread has widened, the tire diameter has increased, and the ground clearance has been lowered. As a result, the wheel arch space has also been expanded.

The 20-inch 5-spoke wheels, which resemble stars, are similar to those on the previously revealed RN22e concept. There’s a high likelihood that this design will be refined and applied to the production model. The wheels are filled with oversized brake rotors and calipers. While the Ioniq 5 N generates a deceleration of 0.6G with regenerative braking, this new vehicle is expected to have even more powerful braking with its extensive brake system.

Ducktail spoiler applied
Expect aggressive details

The rear end also shows a bold appearance due to the widened tread, adding to the anticipation for the production model. A lip spoiler is not present on the current model and is attached to the trunk lid. Because of its upward curve at the end, it’s sometimes referred to as a ‘ducktail’ spoiler. This design element is commonly found in vehicles like the Porsche 911.

While installing a large wing as standard equipment like the RN22e might be difficult, the ducktail spoiler is expected to be a definite feature on the production model. The rear bumper still uses parts from the current model, but it will likely be changed to a design emphasizing the diffuser, similar to the RN22e. The front bumper, side skirts, and all the black-painted parts will have unique designs.

Developing for a 2025 target
Superior to Ioniq 5 N

Albert Biermann, technical advisor for the Hyundai Motor Group, has stated that the new vehicle is slated for release in 2025. Since many of the high-performance technologies applied to the RN22e were first applied to the Ioniq 5 N, this new vehicle is expected to have a similar configuration. Due to its superior aerodynamic performance compared to hatchbacks, it’s expected to have driving range and acceleration advantages in the latter half.

The Ioniq 6 N is expected to be the last high-performance electric vehicle based on the E-GMP platform. The Hyundai Motor Group is developing a next-generation electric vehicle platform, ‘eM,’ which is lighter and more rigid than the current platform. The goal is to improve driving range by more than 50%, and it’s expected to be applied to Kia’s high-performance electric vehicle, ‘GT1 (codename),’ which will be released in 2026.