After 620 miles of mixed driving in a 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6 SE Long Range RWD, we measured efficiency, charging performance, and everyday usability to see if this sleek EV sedan delivers strong value against the Tesla Model 3 and Polestar 2.
Our test car was a SE Long Range RWD on 18-inch wheels (77.4 kWh battery, 225 hp, 258 lb-ft). EPA range is rated up to 361 miles for this configuration. With destination and minor accessories, the as-tested price landed just over $43,000. We ran a week of commuting, a 200-mile 70-mph highway loop, and two DC fast-charging sessions on a 350-kW station in 68–78°F weather, with climate control set to 72°F and two occupants plus 60 lb of cargo.
Efficiency is the headline. On our 70-mph loop the Ioniq 6 returned 4.0 mi/kWh, projecting roughly 295–305 miles at that speed. In mixed suburban driving we saw 4.3 mi/kWh, and 3.7 mi/kWh on a brisk backroad route. The car’s strong coasting and adjustable regen (via paddles) make it easy to hit numbers; Normal mode balances throttle response without dulling efficiency.
Our observed usable capacity, inferred from kWh added at the charger, was about 74 kWh. Performance is adequate for the class. We recorded 0–60 mph in 7.2 seconds and 50–70 mph in 4.3 seconds—slower than a dual-motor Model 3 but comparable to single-motor rivals. The chassis feels settled, with well-damped control over sharp impacts and a stable highway ride.
Steering is light but precise, and brake modulation is natural even as regen blends with friction. At 70 mph, our cabin sound reading averaged 66 dBA on smooth asphalt, rising to 68 dBA on coarse concrete. Charging is a strength. Thanks to its 800V architecture, our best 10–80% session took 19 minutes, peaking at 232 kW and holding above 150 kW until ~60%.
From 15% to 80% we added 49 kWh in 17 minutes. Using a common $0.36/kWh rate, that stop cost about $17.60 and yielded roughly 190–210 miles at highway speeds. We did encounter one offline 350-kW stall and moved one bay over—Electrify America reliability remains variable compared with Tesla’s network. Practicality and features support the value case.
The Ioniq 6 rides lower than an SUV but has generous rear legroom; the sloped roof slightly pinches rear headroom and ingress. The trunk is modest for a mid-size sedan, and the frunk is small. Dual 12.3-inch displays are crisp; CarPlay/Android Auto are wired; driver assists (adaptive cruise with lane centering) performed smoothly on our 100-mile freeway stint. Warranty coverage (5yr/60k basic; 10yr/100k powertrain/battery) outshines most rivals.
Against the Model 3 (stronger performance, superior charging network) and Polestar 2 (nicer materials, higher price), the Hyundai typically undercuts on MSRP and often wins on lease value via pass-through incentives. Overall, the Ioniq 6 SE Long Range offers excellent efficiency, fast charging, and robust warranty coverage at a compelling price. It’s the value pick if you prioritize low running costs and a calm ride over peak acceleration and the best charging ecosystem. Choose SE Long Range RWD for efficiency or AWD for traction; skip upper trims unless you specifically want the extra luxury kit.
