2026 Hyundai IONIQ 6 N Unleashed as 641-hp, Drift-Happy EV Sedan
Although sedans are nowhere near as popular as SUVs and crossovers, Hyundai insisted on creating a high-performance N version of its IONIQ 6. The car officially debuted today at the opening of the Goodwood Festival of Speed in England.
If you remember, it was at this same event two years ago that the Korean manufacturer unveiled the IONIQ 5 N.
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“IONIQ 6 N is engineered to thrill on the track while retaining the comfort and refinement expected for daily driving, achieving a harmonious balance between performance and practicality,” Hyundai said.
The Quickest Production Hyundai Ever
With up to 641 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque, the new 2026 IONIQ 6 N can sprint from 0-100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds using N Launch Control. On a track, it will go on to a top speed of 257 km/h.
During the process, drivers can virtually change gears as they would with a conventionally powered vehicle thanks to N e-Shift. Revised suspension geometry combines with new electronically controlled dampers to enhance handling precision and road holding. With a lowered roll centre, the IONIQ 6 N also delivers greater high-speed stability and improved cornering grip.
Other special features and technologies developed by Hyundai’s N division include:
- N Grin Boost – Unlocks full power for 10 seconds to maximize acceleration and passing (609 hp otherwise);
- N Battery – Preconditions the 84kWh battery to optimal temperature according to driving purposes (Drag/Sprint/Endurance);
- N Active Sound + – Brings a dynamic audio dimension to the driving experience using a stereo sound source and performance-enhanced Acoustic Design Processor; offers custom sound modes tailored to specific moods and driving scenarios, from the motorsport-inspired ‘Ignition’ to the EV sound ‘Evolution’;
- N Drift Optimizer – Offers superior control over the vehicle’s drift characteristics as well as customizable parameters for drift initiation, angle and wheel spin;
- N Ambient Shift Light – Acts as a unique interior lighting feature that visually cues precise shift points for optimal performance;
- N Pedal – Enables agile cornering with three selectable levels for faster tuck-in motion;
- N Brake Regen – Increases regenerative braking force to 0.6G for improved brake endurance with 0.35G regenerative braking under ABS;
- N Track Manager – Allows users to create custom tracks, monitor speed data and evaluate performance through real-time ghost car visuals and detailed lap time analysis.
Aero-Focused Design
The IONIQ 6 is one of the most aerodynamic cars on the planet, but with the new N model Hyundai had to balance downforce and drag reduction for optimum performance. Motorsport-inspired elements such as the swan neck rear wing and widened fenders contribute to enhanced stability during high-speed cornering while making for a more aggressive, track-ready appearance.
By the way, the IONIQ 6 N is available in the same Performance Blue as other N vehicles from Hyundai, except with a new pearl finish. Other body colours include Abyss Black Pearl, Serenity White Pearl, Nocturne Gray Metallic, Nocturne Gray Matte and Gravity Gold Matte.
The 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 6 N is expected to go on sale in Canada in the first half of 2026. Details such as range, equipment and pricing will be announced closer to launch. Don't forget to read our previous story outlining the changes to the IONIQ 6 for 2026, including the addition of a sportier-looking N Line model.