Hyundai N redefines high-performance EV driving experience with IONIQ 6 N

Since its debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July, the Hyundai IONIQ 6 N has ignited excitement among driving enthusiasts eager to experience the high-performance electric vehicle (EV) firsthand.

This week, that anticipation becomes a reality as Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai Motor) welcomes international media to the Korea International Circuit in Yeongam for their first opportunity to push the IONIQ 6 N to its limits ahead of its global market launch in early 2026. IONIQ 6 N is designed to deliver unparalleled driving excitement, guided by Hyundai N’s three-pillar philosophy: Corner Rascal, Racetrack Capability, and Everyday Sportscar. This approach seamlessly blends track-ready performance with daily usability, setting a new benchmark for high-performance EVs.

Building on the technical achievements of the acclaimed IONIQ 5 N, the IONIQ 6 N delivers an even more distinct N-focused design and a plethora of advanced features for heightened precision and engagement. Specifically optimized for high-intensity driving, it integrates newly developed hardware and intelligent software to ensure peak capability, control, and endurance on circuit. Key technical innovations include a fully redesigned suspension geometry for superior handling, an enhanced N e-Shift (virtual gear shift) system with shorter gear ratios, and a refined N Active Sound + system achieved through upgraded hardware and meticulous acoustic tuning — all contributing to a more engaging and immersive driving experience.

Corner Rascal: Exhilarating Agility on Road and Track 
IONIQ 6 N delivers exceptional cornering precision through advanced suspension geometry and a reengineered chassis for superior handling. Stroke-sensing Electronically Controlled Suspension (ECS) dampers and a lowered roll centre work together to enhance grip and stability, ensuring confidence-inspiring performance on undulating roads and demanding circuits.

The revised suspension geometry not only lowers the roll centre for improved high-speed stability but also incorporates new bushing applications to balance sharp handling with refined comfort. An electronic limited slip differential (e-LSD) actively manages wheel torque to boost traction and overall performance. Complementary upgrades to axle stiffness, steering precision, and mount damping further reduce vibration while enhancing ride comfort and refinement across varied surfaces.

Aerodynamic enhancements — such as a motorsport-inspired swan-neck rear wing and widened fenders ­— deliver increased downforce while achieving a drag coefficient of just 0.27Cd, ensuring stability at high-speeds and accentuating the IONIQ 6 N’s aggressive, track-ready stance.

Body rigidity has been strengthened through additional weld points, adhesives, and structural reinforcements. Key upgrades include a stiffer rear anti-roll bar and structural underbody reinforcement, improving load-bearing capacity and rear body stiffness for sharper steering response, reduced vibration, and enhanced ride quality.

Advanced braking systems combine high-performance hardware with intelligent controls to optimize stability, agility and efficiency. Dedicated braking modes support both daily driving and track use, while regenerative systems adapt to road conditions and driving style to maximize energy recovery and range. 

Racetrack Capability: Precision Engineering for Peak Performance
IONIQ 6 N is meticulously crafted to excel on the racetrack, delivering an electrified experience that seamlessly blends power, control and advanced technology. 

Its integrated power electronics (PE) system delivers significantly higher efficiency and output than the standard model, unlocking maximum performance. At the front, a high-efficiency, high-output drive system combines motor, reducer and inverter, while the rear motor serves as the primary drive unit for enhanced traction.  

Generating an impressive 650 PS (478 kW) and 770 Nm of torque, IONIQ 6 N accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds (with N Launch Control) and reaches a top speed of 257 km/h (approximately 160 mph).

IONIQ 6 N boasts N e-Shift, Hyundai N’s innovative shift control feature that replicates close gear ratios inspired by motorsports, amplifying responsiveness and driver engagement. The system works in harmony with key performance features such as N Launch Control, N Drift Optimizer, N Grin Boost and N Torque Distribution, giving the driver maximum control and ensuring IONIQ 6 N performs at its peak under even the most demanding track conditions.

Drivers can elevate their racetrack performance further with N Track Manager, an intelligent tool that enables custom track design, lap-time monitoring, and real-time insights — including ghost car visuals for comparative analysis. Additionally, N Drift Optimizer adds another layer of control, allowing drivers to fine-tune their drift initiation, angle and wheel spin, tailoring the vehicle’s behaviour to individual preferences and skill levels.

To meet the rigorous demands of high-performance driving, IONIQ 6 N features the advanced N Battery system. Optimized for temperature management, it adapts seamlessly to drag, sprint and endurance scenarios. Integrated conditioning functions enhance performance longevity, while improved thermal management and an upgraded coolant heater significantly reduce conditioning time.

The upgraded battery also delivers increased output and improved energy density for greater range and responsiveness. Supporting this is the enhanced Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU), which boosts power density and charging capacity. With an innovative 400V–800V multi-charging architecture, IONIQ 6 N achieves a 10–80% charge in just 18 minutes when connected to an ultra-fast charger.

IONIQ 6 N’s superior racetrack capabilities are not only underpinned by its advanced vehicle control software but also complemented by Hyundai N’s dedication to precise engineering and innovation, ensuring every trip to the circuit is a highly rewarding adventure.

Everyday Sportscar: Electrified Performance Meets Daily Versatility
While IONIQ 6 N delivers exceptional performance on the track, it is also a refined, comfortable everyday companion. At the heart of the experience is N Active Sound+, a dynamic audio system that enriches the driving experience with immersive, tailored soundscapes. Powered by a stereo sound source and a sophisticated Acoustic Design Processor (ADP), this system offers a choice of sound modes — from the motorsport-inspired ‘Ignition’ to the nostalgic rhythm of ‘Evolution,’ and the futuristic tones of ‘Lightspeed’ — to suit the driver’s mood or environment.

Adding a visual dimension to the experience, the N Ambient Shift Light provides interior lighting cues that indicate precise shift points, creating a multi-sensory connection between driver and vehicle. This synchronized glow transforms the cockpit into an immersive performance hub, ensuring every gear change is both seen and felt.

Designed to be as comfortable as it is thrilling, IONIQ 6 N features a finely balanced suspension and chassis system that maintains ride comfort without compromising dynamic handling. Whether navigating urban streets or commuting on long highways, IONIQ 6 N achieves a seamless transition between electrified exhilaration and everyday practicality.

Hyundai N also offers a range of N performance parts designed to enhance personalization while retaining the IONIQ 6 N’s motorsport-inspired DNA. Drivers can customize their vehicles to reflect their unique style while enjoying track-ready performance on every drive.

By blending cutting-edge technology with daily usability, IONIQ 6 N delivers a driving experience that is as rewarding on a day-to-day basis as it is on the racetrack, solidifying its position as the ultimate Everyday Sportscar.

IONIQ 6 N is also equipped with Hyundai Motor’s Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) as part of its SmartSense suite. Features such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Highway Driving Assist 2 ensure enhanced safety and semi-autonomous driving capabilities. Features such as Remote Smart Parking Assist 2 allow automated parking manoeuvres while the driver remains outside the vehicle.

Design and Customization
IONIQ 6 N makes a bold statement with its Performance Blue Pearl exterior finish and widened fenders, underscoring its high-performance identity. Standard 20-inch forged wheels complete the aggressive stance, while drivers seeking a personalized touch can enhance their vehicle with N performance parts ­— track-inspired upgrades designed for both street and circuit use. 

Additional exterior colour options include Serenity White Pearl, Nocturne Grey Matte, Nocturne Grey Metallic and Abyss Black Pearl. 

Inside, the cabin is optimized for high-performance driving. A black monochrome colourway with Performance Blue accents sets the tone, complemented by bucket seats upholstered in Alcantara suede and genuine leather for optimal support during spirited driving. 

Every detail reinforces driver engagement. An exclusive N Pasubio steering wheel, complete with a centre mark, features dedicated N1/N2 buttons for rapid mode selection, while N-exclusive metal pedals ensure precision braking and stable pedal response. An N knee support pad enhances comfort during cornering, and additional physical buttons provide intuitive, driver-focused control.

Premium touches such as welcome lighting on the front N logo and real aluminium N emblems elevate the cabin’s motorsport-inspired character, creating an environment that blends cutting-edge performance with everyday usability.

* N Grin Boost is available for up to 10 seconds and its recharge time is required for 10 seconds.