Hyundai Ioniq 6 review

Hyundai Ioniq 6 review

We road test the sensational new Hyundai Ioniq 6 – a boldly-styled EV marketed as a ‘streamliner’…

Hyundai is absolutely smashing it out of the park at the moment. Hot on the heels of the latest i10 city car, Tucson Hybrid SUV and crowd-pleasing Ioniq 5, comes the Ioniq 6.

Inspired by aerodynamic style icons of the 20th Century, this slippery four-door saloon may have divisive looks, but believe me, it is one of the best electric cars on the market.

Hyundai Ioniq 6 review

I’m not alone either, because it was crowned overall World Car of the Year 2023, plus it won the World Electric Vehicle and World Car Design of the Year categories.

Slightly longer than the Tesla Model 3, its other rivals include the Polestar 2 and BMW i4.

Currently only available with a large 77.4kWh battery, the Ioniq 6 has a driving range of up to 338 miles (rear-wheel drive) or 322 miles (all-wheel drive).

Hyundai Ioniq 6 review

The single motor RWD develops 226bhp and 258lb ft of torque and is capable of 0-62mph in 7.4 seconds, while the twin-motor AWD delivers 320bhp and 446lb ft, resulting in a faster 0-62mph time of 5.1 seconds.

Featuring an 800V charging system providing 350kW compatibility, it can be used at the fastest chargers currently available.

So, expect the Ioniq 6 to charge to 80% in around 20 minutes when connected to a 350kW ultra-rapid connection. And if you have a home wallbox, you’ll be able to charge overnight, while a boost to 80% via a 50kW public charger will take one hour 13 minutes.

Hyundai Ioniq 6 review

Sharing its underpinnings with the award-winning (more angular) Hyundai Ioniq 5 crossover, the 6 has an ultra-low drag coefficient of 0.21, which boosts performance and optimises efficiency.

Priced from £47,040, there’s a choice of two generously-equipped trim levels (Premium and Ultimate).

The Ioniq 6 is futuristic inside too, with dual 12.3-inch screens – a driver’s digital instrument panel and a central infotainment display.

Hyundai Ioniq 6 review

Thankfully it’s not totally minimalist either. For instance, there are small touch-sensitive buttons for the climate controls in a separate panel beneath the touchscreen. These are a tad fiddly, but much better than having to swipe through menus on a touchscreen.

Overall, the quality of the interior is a step up from the Ioniq 5, while the seats are comfortable and there are plenty of soft-touch surfaces.

There’s also ample space inside front and rear, though taller rear passengers (6ft and over) might struggle for headroom, thanks to that sweeping roofline. The 401-litre boot capacity is very useful too, and you can flip the back seats to transport longer objects.

Hyundai Ioniq 6 review

A special mention for the Ioniq 6’s distinctive ‘Parametric Pixels’. There are 700 in all and you can find then in the headlights, rear lights, front sensors, air damper trim, centre console indicator and third brake light. In fact, the rear wing light signature when braking is something else.

I got behind the wheel of a Premium spec model with all-wheel drive. Naturally, the seating position is lower than a crossover, though personally I would prefer it lower still.

Right from the off, the whole cabin experience is smooth and refined. Not only does the Ioniq 6 float over most potholes – it’s whisper quiet too.

Hyundai Ioniq 6 review

It was lashing down with rain for much of my test time, but the car never felt anything other than planted, with abundant grip and effortless power.

It’s surprisingly agile when you push it on more challenging roads with well controlled body lean, while the steering is nicely weighted.

Hyundai Ioniq 6 review

At its best cruising along, there are three drive modes – Eco, Normal and Sport. As ever, Normal is the best compromise between performance and economy. And if you want extra regenerative braking, then flick one of the steering-wheel-mounted paddles.

Hard to tell without spending more time with the car, but the claimed range seemed realistic based on mixed driving.

As you’d expect with a modern EV, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 was awarded a maximum five stars when it was crash-tested by Euro NCAP.

Hyundai Ioniq 6

It’s also fitted with Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2), which is Level 2 autonomous driving. The system helps to maintain a set distance and speed from the vehicle ahead when driving on faster roads and motorways and helps to centre the vehicle in the lane while driving. It can even overtake the vehicle in front.

Verdict: If you want to stand out from the crowd with a retro-mod, low slung EV saloon, then the Hyundai Ioniq 6 is the car for you. Safe, spacious, sophisticated and serene, it delivers a long range and is quite simply, one of the most impressive electric vehicles on the road.

Hyundai UK

Top 20 pieces of technology that baffle modern car owners

Gareth Herincx

3 days ago
Auto News

Hyundai Ioniq 6

Thousands of motorists feel ‘overwhelmed’ by the technical capabilities of their cars – with cruise control, assisted parking and getting connected to Bluetooth among the most baffling features.

A study of 500 car owners with a vehicle less than two years old, commissioned by Hyundai, found that 68 per cent said they struggle to get to grips with everything – taken aback by the likes of sport mode, electronic handbrakes and autonomous emergency braking.

And 40 per cent don’t believe they are using their beloved vehicle to its full potential – despite it being the most expensive tech purchase for 86 per cent.

Sat-navs, voice activation and reverse parking cameras are also things that bemuse drivers, while 19 per cent haven’t even heard of blind spot alert, and 18 per cent don’t know about lane assist or a digital key.

The research also found it took six months for 55 per cent to discover their motor came with certain features.

Hyundai has created a quiz to expose the untapped potential of modern technology in new cars and give drivers the knowledge they need to make their car owning experience more pleasurable.

And in the future, motorists would like to see new tech that helps with comfort (48 per cent), followed by safety (40 per cent), entertainment (33 per cent), navigation (31 per cent), and self-driving (23 per cent).

It also emerged those under 40 are significantly more likely to want more comfort in their car, compared to older people, and 52 per cent of under-30s desire more in-car entertainment.

“It is interesting to see the divide between tech adoption in our wider lifestyle choices and that in our vehicles,” said Ashley Andrew, president of Hyundai Motor UK.

“We want to empower all drivers to embrace the technology available to them and seize the opportunity to engage with our innovative tech for a more pleasurable experience.”

Top 20 pieces of technology in a car that baffle modern car owners

  1. Cruise control
  2. Assisted parking
  3. Connecting different Bluetooth devices
  4. Sports mode
  5. Lane assist
  6. Assisted braking
  7. Different switch location for fog lights
  8. Wireless smartphone connectivity/charging
  9. Electronic handbrakes
  10. Sat nav
  11. Heated steering wheel
  12. Climate control
  13. Voice activation/recognition
  14. Blind spot detection
  15. Remote engine starting
  16. Reverse parking camera
  17. Automatic boot
  18. Blind-spot alert
  19. Massage seats
  20. 360-degree camera

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Electrified Genesis GV70 review

Electrified Genesis GV70

We road test the new electric version of one of the stars of the Genesis range – the GV70 medium-sized SUV…

Before we start, if you’re unfamiliar with the Genesis brand, then here’s a quick recap.

Genesis is the luxury arm of the Hyundai Motor Group, which also includes Kia. So, think Lexus/Toyota or Infiniti/Nissan.

Electrified Genesis GV70

Genesis was launched in the UK in the summer of 2021 and the GV70 was one of the first models, though at the time it was only available with petrol and diesel engines.

Fast forward to 2022 and an all-electric variant of the GV70 has been added to the range, though it’s marketed as the ‘Electrified GV70’, which is a term more often associated with hybrids.

Starting at £64,405, it is on the pricey side and its main competitors include the Audi Q4 e-tron, BMW iX3, Mercedes-Benz EQC and Tesla Model Y.

Electrified Genesis GV70

Currently only available with all-wheel drive, the Electrified GV70 combines a 77.4kWh battery with two electric motors, delivering 700Nm of torque and a range of up to 283 miles.

Most of the time it pushes out 436hp and can accelerate from standstill to 62mph in 4.8 seconds.

However, if you hit the ‘Boost’ button on the steering wheel you get access to the full power (483bhp), for about 10 seconds, which is enough to reduce the 0-62mph time to just 4.2 seconds.

Electrified Genesis GV70

Apart from the instant torque and the refined, whisper quiet driving experience, the EV version of the GV70 is much the same as its ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) siblings – which is no bad thing.

The GV70’s classy interior has comfortable leather seats and it oozes quality. There’s a huge 14.5-inch central infotainment screen which can be operated by touch or via the rotary dial down by the gear selector.

Thankfully, it’s not too minimalist either. Instead, there are some accessible buttons and switches – and most importantly of all – physical climate controls.

Electrified Genesis GV70

There’s plenty of space for rear passengers, while the luggage capacity is a little smaller than the non-electric versions, but it’s still a decent 503 litres with the seats in place. Flip them down and there’s a useful 1,678-litre load space with good access.

For  substantial 2.3-tonne SUV that wasn’t designed as a pure electric vehicle from the ground up, the GV70 handles surprisingly well.

The suspension is on the firm side, but the overall driving experience is a relaxing one. Unlike some competitors, it can be hustled on more challenging roads and it’s good fun – especially in Sport mode.

Electrified Genesis GV70

Naturally there’s a bit of body roll in faster corners, but it’s not excessive and the Electrified GV70 remains composed.

Add precise steering, good visibility and plenty of traction to the well soundproofed cabin (there are double-glazed windows and an acoustic laminated windscreen to help minimise tyre and wind noise), and it just keeps ticking the right boxes.

There are Eco, Comfort and Sport driving modes, plus a one-pedal driving option which can bring the car to a halt without having to touch the brake pedal.

Electrified Genesis GV70

It also features an e-Terrain mode, but we didn’t get to test it in anger. Let’s just say that it’s probably more than enough to get you out of a muddy field at a festival site.

Living with the Electrified GV70 is easier than some rivals too, because it comes with an ultra-fast charging capability, which can take the battery from 10-80% in 18 minutes when hooked up to a super rapid 350kW charger.

There is also a vehicle-to-load feature (V2L) for plugging in external devices, such as camping equipment, laptops or tools, for example.

Electrified Genesis GV70

It’s also worth noting that Genesis has a deal with the IONITY charging network which means five years’ of discount rates.

If safety is a priority then it won’t disappoint either. The Genesis GV70 range enjoys a five-star score from Euro NCAP, with high ratings in the occupant and safety tech categories.

The long list of standard safety and driver assistance kit includes autonomous emergency braking (AEB), lane keep assist, automatic high beams, rear-cross traffic alert, blind spot monitoring and a reversing camera.

Electrified Genesis GV70

Finally, don’t forget that Genesis offers a completely different VIP ownership experience.

There are no dealerships. Instead, you visit a studio where you can interact with a Genesis Personal Assistant (GPA), who’s under no pressure to make a sale and is employed on a commission-free basis.

It’s hoped the GPA will remain a direct point of contact throughout the ownership experience, delivering cars for test drives and purchases, and collecting your car for servicing (providing a like-for-like Genesis while your car is away).

What’s more, Genesis’s 5-Year Care Plan includes servicing, roadside assistance, courtesy car, mapping and over-the-air software updates.

Verdict: Handsome, generously equipped, safe, spacious, comfortable, packed with tech and a joy to drive, the Electrified GV70 is one of the best big zero emissions SUVs on the market. If that hasn’t convinced you, then add the VIP ownership experience and five-year warranty/care plan to the list.

Genesis UK

Electrified Genesis GV70

Revealed: The UK’s most reliable car brands

Gareth Herincx

23 hours ago
Auto News


Honda

Japanese and Korean car manufacturers have once again dominated an annual Top 10 of most reliable marques.

Honda topped the table, scoring an impressive 96.8/100 overall, according to Warrantywise – the UK’s leading extended car warranty provider,

The Reliability Index is compiled from more than 131,000 active extended car warranty plans between 2021 and 2022,

It ranks every car on a combination of factors, including the cost to carry out repairs and the frequency rate of those repairs.

With an impressive overall score of 96.8/100, Honda’s solid reputation for being ultra-dependable seems unshakeable, and as shown in previous Warrantywise data, the Honda Jazz was named the most reliable used car in this year’s Reliability Index.

Toyota came a close second, scoring 91.2/100 overall, followed by Suzuki.

Top 10 most reliable car brands 2022

  1. Honda – 96.8
  2. Toyota – 91.2
  3. Suzuki 88.7
  4. Kia 86.2
  5. Hyundai 80.5
  6. Fiat 79.9
  7. Citroën 74.3
  8. Renault 73.2
  9. Mazda 73.1
  10. Ford 73.1

“As the cost of living continues to rise, it’s important to keep things like reliability at the forefront of our minds when choosing a used car to buy,” said Lawrence Whittaker, CEO of Warrantywise.

“By collecting and collating all this data into an index like this one, we’re able to further help our customers with their purchases by arming them with information to try and help lessen the burden as much as we can.”

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Genesis GV60 review

Genesis GV60

We road test the first pure electric car from the new, upmarket Genesis brand…

Before we begin, let’s start with a quick refresh. Genesis is the luxury arm of the Hyundai Motor Group, which also includes Kia. So, think Lexus/Toyota and DS/Citroen. Only launched in the UK in the summer of 2021, its impressive stable of prestige cars includes saloons, SUVs and an estate.

Up until now, the range hasn’t quite matched up to the equivalents from BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz and Volvo.

The good news for Genesis is that we think the fully electric GV60 will go down as the brand’s breakthrough model.

Genesis GV60

Developed alongside its award-winning cousins, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6, the GV60 is arguably the most successful of the trio in the looks department.

Slightly shorter than the Ioniq 5 and EV6, it’s nicely proportioned with a curvaceously muscular stance and short overhangs. There are flush-fitting door handles along its flowing profile, plus the option of rear-facing cameras instead of conventional door mirrors. Slim, stacked headlights and a broad black grille are highlights up front, while its sexy derrière is a candidate for Rear of the Year.

Priced from £47,005, the new Genesis GV60 is available in three trims (Premium, Sport and Sport Plus) and all versions come with a 77.4kWh battery, but different choices of electric motor.

Genesis GV60

It’s not worth listing the differences between the grades when it comes to goodies. Let’s just say, the GV60 is generously equipped, though obviously you should compare. Perhaps more importantly, it’s the technical differences that matter.

The GV60 Premium gets a single 225bhp electric motor that drives the rear wheels, giving up to 321 miles of range.

Sport versions come with dual motors producing a total of 314hp. These cars are four-wheel drive, but range is down to 292 miles.

Genesis GV60

The top-spec GV60 Sport Plus we tested gets a more powerful dual-motor setup that produces an impressive 483bhp in total, though range is down again to a still decent 289 miles on a single charge.

It’s worth noting that there’s a boost button on the Sport Plus which unlocks a 10-second blast of gut-wrenching power. Oh, and those 0-62mph times range from 7.8 seconds for the Premium down to 4.0 seconds for the Sport Plus.

The Genesis GV60 also comes with a state-of-the-art 800-volt electrical system that lets you charge it using ultra rapid 350kw chargers from 10-80% full in just 18 minutes.

Genesis GV60

Alternatively, a 10-80% charge via a more common 50kW connection will take 73 minutes, while a 10-100% boost from an 11kw home wallbox takes seven hours 20 minutes.

The cabin is spacious and faultlessly finished, though it’s worth test-driving the GV60 is you regularly carry taller than average rear passengers because of the sloping roofline.

Two wide 12.3-inch digital screens take care of infotainment duties, but thankfully there’s also a good balance of traditional buttons and dials to easily access commonly used functions.

Genesis GV60

The interior’s party trick is the gorgeous crystal ball in the middle of the centre console (Genesis calls it a ‘Crystal Sphere’) which revolves to reveal a rotating dial with Drive, Reverse, Park etc when the GV60 is ready to go.

The boot has a useful 432-litre capacity to the parcel shelf, expanding to 1,550 litres with the rear seats folded down. There’s also space under the bonnet – the perfect spot to store your charging cables.

My only criticisms of the cabin are that the brushed metal effect used extensively has a plastic feel to it – not unlike a much cheaper Hyundai. Also, visibility through the small rear window isn’t the best, and there’s no wiper.

Genesis GV60

The GV60’s driving position is comfortable, if fairly high, and the car itself certainly feels substantial.

Obviously it’s quiet, refined and very fast. The Sport Plus we tested had adaptive predictive suspension, which uses information from the front camera and navigation system to adjust damping in advance, delivering an impressively comfortable ride.

There’s good body control in corners, but ultimately the GV60’s agility will always be compromised by its width and two-tonne weight. In other words, you’d need some track time to have the confidence to take it close to the limit.

Genesis GV60

That said there’s a serious amount of grip and traction from those epic 21-inch Michelin-shod wheels, so you can still have fun and a play with the various drive modes.

We found Comfort mode does just fine and the GV60 is at its best cruising effortlessly along at the legal limit. Oh, and a special mention for the steering wheel paddles which let you vary the amount of brake regeneration through five levels, from frictionless coasting to one-pedal driving.

Finally, the steering is light and accurate, but there’s not much in the way of feedback, while the brakes are progressive, unlike many EVs.

Genesis GV60

Before we sign off, it’s worth remembering that Genesis is no ordinary brand, offering a completely different VIP ownership experience.

There are no dealerships. Instead, you visit a studio where you can interact with a Genesis Personal Assistant (GPA), who’s under no pressure to make a sale and is employed on a commission-free basis.

It’s hoped the GPA will remain a direct point of contact throughout your ownership experience, delivering cars for test drives and purchases, and collecting your car for servicing (providing a like-for-like Genesis while your car is away).

What’s more, Genesis’s 5-Year Care Plan includes servicing, roadside assistance, courtesy car, mapping and over-the-air software updates.

Verdict: The all-new Genesis GV60 is a class act. Big, practical, comfortable, safe and a joy to drive, it’s one of the best electric crossovers on the market with serious kerb appeal. Add the unique sales and aftercare package and it’s sure to appeal to buyers who prefer the finer things in life.

Genesis