Hyundai’s Ioniq 6 redesign is a little sportier and a bit weirder

Hyundai’s Ioniq 6 electric sedan already had a polarizing “streamliner” design that only owners seem to love. Now the automaker has massaged the front a bit more for a new look for 2026. The latest Ioniq 6 has squintier daytime running lights and headlights that are lower down into the bumper, something that we’re seeing in a lot of new EVs, like the redesigned Tesla Model Y and Chevy Equinox EV. The original Ioniq 6 already looked like a car modeled from an Apple Magic Mouse, and the new one looks even slope-ier, enhanced further by pressing in the hood brows. Here’s what the Hyundai press release says about the changes: > With the new IONIQ 6, Hyundai Motor is emphasizing the identity of electrified streamliners, focusing on connecting the body flow more precisely and naturally based on the evolved concept of ‘Pure flow, Refined.’ [Image: https://platform.theverge.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/04/mk04.jpeg?quality=90&strip=all] [Image: https://platform.theverge.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/04/hyundai-ioniq-6-driving-experience-0323-exterior-10.jpg?quality=90&strip=all] Left: 2026 Ioniq 6, Right: 2023 Ioniq 6 There’s also a performance N version coming that’s based on Hyundai’s RN22e concept, revealed in 2022. Hyundai says it will be a “true high-performance electrified streamliner” that looks sportier with a black painted rear. The Ioniq 6 N will be fully revealed in July. [Image: Take a peek at the Ioniq 6 N in the back. https://platform.theverge.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/04/mk01.jpeg?quality=90&strip=all] The original 2023 model year Ioniq 6 was already a good alternative to the Tesla Model 3 with a similar size, price, and maximum battery range (EPA-estimated 361 miles on a full charge on the RWD Ioniq 6). Hyundai is continuing to find a place for the Ioniq 6 in its lineup next to its more popular Ioniq 5 crossover SUV, and it’ll be up to buyers to decide if the new look and slightly tweaked button layout in the interior are enough to swing for the 6.