As the autumn sun casts its golden glow across Australia’s diverse landscapes, from the urban sprawl of Sydney to the rugged Outback, a new automotive contender is making waves in our increasingly electrified market. The 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 6 facelift has arrived on Australian shores, bringing with it a bold redesign and the introduction of an exciting N Line variant that promises to inject some much-needed performance DNA into the electric sedan segment.
For Aussie drivers who’ve been watching the electric revolution unfold with a mix of curiosity and caution, this refreshed IONIQ 6 represents a compelling new chapter. It’s not just another EV – it’s a statement of intent from Hyundai, a brand that has steadily climbed the ranks in Australia to become a mainstream favourite.
The timing couldn’t be better. With fuel prices continuing their upward trajectory and our major cities implementing increasingly stringent emissions regulations, many Australians are finally considering making the switch to electric. The question is: does this revamped IONIQ 6 have what it takes to convince the skeptics and delight the early adopters?
I spent a week with the 2025 IONIQ 6 on Australian roads – from the congested streets of Melbourne to the sweeping coastal roads of Victoria – to find out if this Korean electric contender can truly deliver on its bold promises.
A Bold New Face: Design Evolution
The original IONIQ 6, which debuted back in 2022, was already a head-turner with its streamlined, almost retro-futuristic design. Hyundai dubbed it an “Electrified Streamliner,” and with its slippery 0.21 drag coefficient, it certainly backed up that claim with substance.
But the 2025 facelift takes things to another level entirely.
Pulling into a café parking lot in Port Melbourne, I counted no fewer than five turned heads as the new IONIQ 6 glided to a stop. Where the original model was smooth and subtle, this refresh is confident and assertive.
The front fascia has been completely reworked, featuring a more angular interpretation of Hyundai’s “Parametric Pixel” design language. The LED headlights are now slimmer and more aggressive, connected by a full-width light bar that illuminates in a dramatic sequence when approaching the vehicle. It’s theatrical, yes, but in an era where automotive design is increasingly becoming a form of technological expression, it works.
Along the flanks, new sculpted lines add more visual drama to the silhouette, and the flush door handles now illuminate in the same pixelated pattern as the lighting elements. The rear end maintains its distinctive elliptical shape but now houses a more pronounced spoiler and redesigned tail lights that extend further across the boot lid.
“We wanted to maintain the IONIQ 6’s distinctive character while pushing the boundaries of our design language,” explains SangYup Lee, Hyundai’s Global Head of Design, during the virtual press briefing for Australian media. “The facelift represents an evolution rather than a revolution – enhancing what was already a strong emotional connection with customers.”
Perhaps the most striking aspect of the exterior redesign is the expanded colour palette. My test car came in a striking new shade called “Digital Green” – a deep, metallic hue that shifts dramatically under different lighting conditions. It’s joined by other new options including “Quantum Blue” and “Gravity Gold,” giving Australian buyers much more opportunity for personal expression than the somewhat limited palette of the original model.
For those who find the standard IONIQ 6 too understated, the new N Line variant delivers a significant visual upgrade. Borrowing design cues from Hyundai’s performance division, the N Line adds a more aggressive front bumper with larger air intakes, side skirts, a rear diffuser element, and exclusive 20-inch wheels with a turbine-inspired design. It’s the perfect middle ground between the standard IONIQ 6 and what we hope will eventually be a full-fat IONIQ 6 N.
Inside Story: Cabin Evolution
Stepping into the cabin of the 2025 IONIQ 6 reveals a space that has matured rather than completely transformed. Hyundai has wisely retained the airy, minimalist approach of the original but has focused on enhancing material quality and introducing new technology.
The first thing you’ll notice is the new steering wheel design, which features a flattened bottom section and perforated leather on the N Line models. The digital instrument cluster and central infotainment touchscreen remain, but they’ve been updated with Hyundai’s latest user interface, which is noticeably more responsive and visually refined than before.
Perhaps the most welcome addition for Australian drivers is the new climate control system, which now features physical buttons for key functions rather than relying entirely on touchscreen controls. It’s a small change, but one that makes a significant difference when trying to adjust the temperature on our notoriously rough country roads.
The sustainable ethos of the original IONIQ 6 remains intact, with extensive use of recycled and eco-friendly materials throughout the cabin. The seats in my test car were upholstered in a new fabric made from recycled plastic bottles, but you wouldn’t know it from the premium feel. Higher-spec models offer a wool-blend option that feels particularly appropriate for cooler Australian mornings.
Rear seat passengers benefit from a revised seat design that offers slightly more under-thigh support – addressing one of the few criticisms of the original model. Boot space remains unchanged at 401 litres, which is adequate if not class-leading. The front boot (or “frunk” as it’s increasingly known) offers an additional 45 litres of storage, perfect for stowing charging cables or small items.
The N Line variant elevates the interior experience further with sports seats featuring integrated headrests, red contrast stitching, and N-branded elements throughout. These seats offer excellent lateral support without sacrificing comfort – a balance that’s particularly appreciated on Australia’s often challenging road surfaces.
Technology has always been a Hyundai strong suit, and the updated IONIQ 6 doesn’t disappoint. The dual 12.3-inch screens are now complemented by an updated augmented reality head-up display that projects navigation instructions and safety information directly onto the windscreen in your line of sight. It’s one of the best implementations of this technology I’ve experienced, proving particularly useful when navigating Melbourne’s confusing hook turns.
Audiophiles will appreciate the upgraded Bose sound system, which now features 12 speakers and a dedicated amplifier. It delivers impressive clarity and depth, making it the perfect companion for long drives along the Great Ocean Road.
One particularly clever new feature is the updated vehicle-to-load (V2L) function, which allows you to power external devices using the car’s battery. Where the original model offered this capability via the external charging port and an internal socket, the 2025 facelift adds two additional power outlets in the boot area – perfect for powering a portable fridge during a weekend camping trip in the Victorian High Country.
Power and Performance: Electric Thrills
The standard 2025 IONIQ 6 continues with the same powertrain options as before, but with some meaningful improvements to efficiency and performance.
The rear-wheel drive Long Range model, which is expected to be the volume seller in Australia, features a 77.4kWh battery pack and a single electric motor producing 168kW and 350Nm of torque. Hyundai claims a 0-100km/h time of 7.4 seconds for this variant – a slight improvement over the original model thanks to software optimizations.
The dual-motor all-wheel drive version bumps power output to a combined 239kW and 605Nm, enabling a 0-100km/h sprint in just 5.1 seconds. It’s properly quick and delivers its performance with the instant torque that makes EVs so addictive in everyday driving.
However, it’s the new N Line that really captures the imagination. While not a full-fledged N model (we’re still waiting for that), the N Line variant includes a performance boost that increases output to 275kW and 650Nm in the dual-motor configuration. This drops the 0-100km/h time to a claimed 4.7 seconds – making it competitive with much more expensive performance EVs.
The N Line also features a unique tuning for the motor control unit that delivers power in a more progressive manner, addressing one of the few dynamic criticisms of the original model. Launch control is included, as is a specific N driving mode that sharpens throttle response and increases the synthetic sound generator’s volume.
On the winding roads around the Mornington Peninsula, the N Line demonstrated remarkable poise for a vehicle of its size and weight. The standard IONIQ 6’s multi-link rear suspension has been retained but features stiffer springs and revised damper tuning for the N Line. The result is a car that feels more planted during spirited driving without sacrificing too much ride comfort.
Regenerative braking remains a highlight of the IONIQ 6 driving experience, with the paddle shifters allowing you to adjust the level of regeneration on the fly. In its strongest setting, you can achieve genuine one-pedal driving – a boon in Melbourne’s stop-start traffic.
Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the dynamic package is how well-suited it is to Australian conditions. Hyundai’s local chassis tuning program continues to pay dividends, with the IONIQ 6 displaying excellent composure over the broken surfaces and unexpected camber changes that define many of our rural roads.
Range and Charging: The Numbers That Matter
For many Australian buyers, particularly those outside major metropolitan areas, range anxiety remains a significant barrier to EV adoption. Hyundai has addressed this concern head-on with the 2025 IONIQ 6 facelift.
Thanks to improvements in battery management software and more efficient thermal management, the rear-wheel drive Long Range model now boasts a WLTP-rated range of up to 614km – a modest but meaningful improvement over the original model. The all-wheel drive variant offers a slightly reduced range of 583km due to the additional power consumption of the front motor.
The N Line AWD, with its performance-focused tuning, reduces this figure further to around a 550km range – still ample for most Australian driving needs. During my week with the car, I averaged around 16.5kWh/100km in mixed driving conditions, which aligns closely with Hyundai’s official efficiency claims.
Where the IONIQ 6 continues to shine is in its charging capabilities. Built on Hyundai’s 800-volt Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), it can accept charging rates of up to 350kW from compatible DC fast chargers. This enables a 10-80% charge in just 18 minutes under ideal conditions – perfect for a coffee break on the highway between Sydney and Canberra.
For Australian drivers, however, AC charging at home or work will remain the primary method of replenishing the battery. The IONIQ 6 comes with an 11kW onboard charger as standard, enabling a full charge in around 7 hours from a compatible wallbox. This makes overnight charging a breeze, and Hyundai continues to offer competitive wallbox installation packages through its dealer network.
The updated IONIQ 6 also introduces a new battery preconditioning function that automatically warms or cools the battery when navigating to a DC fast charger. This ensures optimal charging rates regardless of ambient temperature – a feature that will be particularly appreciated in Australia’s varying climate zones, from Tasmania’s chilly winters to Queensland’s tropical heat.
Technology and Safety: Leading the Charge
Hyundai has built a reputation for offering comprehensive safety packages, and the 2025 IONIQ 6 builds on this foundation with several noteworthy enhancements.
The Hyundai SmartSense suite now includes an improved Highway Driving Assist 2 system that combines adaptive cruise control with lane centering assistance. The system can now change lanes automatically with a flick of the indicator stalk – a feature previously reserved for luxury brands. In practice, it works remarkably well on Melbourne’s straight, wide freeways, though it remains appropriately cautious when traffic densities increase.
The forward collision avoidance system has been upgraded to better detect cyclists and pedestrians at night – critical for Australian suburban driving where cycling commuters and pedestrians are increasingly common. The blind-spot monitoring system now includes an active avoidance function that can subtly steer the car away from potential collisions.
Perhaps the most impressive new safety feature is the Remote Smart Parking Assist, which allows you to park the car or retrieve it from a tight space using the key fob – without being inside the vehicle. It’s particularly useful in Australia’s notoriously tight shopping centre car parks, though it does take some getting used to.
The infotainment system receives a meaningful upgrade with faster processing power and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard across the range. The native navigation system has been enhanced with real-time charging station information, including availability status and charging speeds – crucial information for longer journeys through regional Australia.
Hyundai’s Bluelink connected car services have also been expanded for the Australian market, offering remote vehicle monitoring, geofencing alerts, and over-the-air updates for vehicle systems. A new smartphone app provides comprehensive control over charging schedules and climate preconditioning – allowing you to cool the car down before leaving the office on a scorching summer afternoon.
The Australian Context: Value and Running Costs
Pricing for the 2025 IONIQ 6 range starts at $72,900 (before on-road costs) for the base rear-wheel drive Standard Range model, rising to $79,900 for the Long Range RWD and $84,900 for the Long Range AWD. The new N Line AWD tops the range at $89,900 – positioning it as a premium offering but still undercutting similar performance-oriented electric vehicles from European manufacturers.
When considering the comprehensive standard equipment list, including the advanced driver assistance systems, these prices represent reasonable value in the current Australian EV market. It’s worth noting that the IONIQ 6 no longer qualifies for electric vehicle incentives in states like NSW and Victoria due to its price point – though fleet buyers may still access certain business incentives.
Running costs remain a compelling part of the IONIQ 6 ownership proposition. With electricity prices in Australia averaging around 30 cents per kilowatt-hour, a full charge of the 77.4kWh battery will cost approximately $23 – equating to about $3.80 per 100km in the rear-wheel drive model. This compares favourably to a similar-sized petrol vehicle, which might cost $12-15 per 100km at current fuel prices.
Hyundai’s warranty coverage continues to impress, with a 5-year/unlimited kilometre vehicle warranty complemented by an 8-year/160,000km battery warranty. Servicing costs are significantly lower than equivalent internal combustion vehicles, with service intervals set at 24 months or 30,000km.
For Australian businesses considering fleet adoption, Hyundai has introduced a new fleet management portal that provides detailed reporting on vehicle usage, charging patterns, and energy consumption. This could prove particularly valuable for organisations looking to demonstrate the environmental benefits of transitioning to electric vehicles.
Living with the IONIQ 6: The Everyday Experience
Beyond the specifications and features, what’s the 2025 IONIQ 6 actually like to live with in typical Australian conditions?
My week with the car included the full spectrum of Australian driving scenarios – from the dense urban crawl of Melbourne’s CBD to high-speed cruising on the Hume Highway and winding coastal roads along the Great Ocean Road.
In urban environments, the IONIQ 6 excels. Its relatively compact dimensions (it’s shorter than it looks in photos) make it easy to manoeuvre through tight city streets, while the excellent visibility and comprehensive camera systems simplify parking. The one-pedal driving mode transforms stop-start traffic from a chore into an almost game-like experience as you try to maximise efficiency.
On the highway, the refined cabin and excellent noise insulation create a serene environment even at higher speeds. The Highway Driving Assist system reduces driver fatigue on longer journeys, though it still requires regular attention and input as it’s not a full autonomous driving solution.
Where the IONIQ 6 – particularly the N Line variant – really shines is on the flowing country roads that connect Australia’s coastal communities. Here, the instant torque delivery and low centre of gravity (thanks to the underfloor battery pack) create a driving experience that’s both engaging and reassuring. The steering has a natural weight to it, and while it’s not overflowing with feedback, it’s precise enough to place the car confidently through corners.
Practical considerations haven’t been overlooked either. The boot, while not as capacious as some rivals, easily swallows a couple of medium-sized suitcases or a weekly grocery shop. The frunk provides a handy space for charging cables or smaller items you want to keep secure.
The cabin offers plentiful storage options, including generous door bins, a sizeable central cubby, and a clever sliding centre console that can be configured to suit different needs. Rear seat passengers are well catered for with adequate legroom, USB-C charging ports, and air vents – though the sloping roofline does slightly compromise headroom for those over six feet tall.
Perhaps the only significant practical compromise is the rear window, which is small and divided by the spoiler, limiting rearward visibility. Fortunately, the excellent digital rear-view mirror (which uses a camera mounted in the spoiler) largely mitigates this issue.
Charging infrastructure remains a consideration for potential Australian EV buyers, but the situation is improving rapidly. During my week with the IONIQ 6, I used a mix of home charging on a standard 10A power point (slow but convenient overnight), public AC chargers in shopping centre car parks, and DC fast chargers on major routes. The experience was largely seamless, though some charging networks proved more reliable than others – an issue that’s gradually being addressed as the infrastructure matures.
A Compelling Electric Proposition
The 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 6 facelift represents a thoughtful evolution of what was already an impressive electric vehicle. Rather than reinventing the wheel, Hyundai has addressed customer feedback and market demands to refine the package into something that feels particularly well-suited to Australian conditions and expectations.
The standard IONIQ 6 continues to offer an excellent balance of range, performance, and value, while the introduction of the N Line variant adds a new dimension of driver appeal that was previously missing from the lineup. It’s not quite a full-blooded performance car, but it offers enough visual and dynamic enhancements to satisfy those who want their EV to deliver a more engaging driving experience.
For Australian buyers, the IONIQ 6’s combination of practical range, fast charging capabilities, and comprehensive warranty coverage addresses many of the common concerns about electric vehicle ownership. The improved efficiency and enhanced technology features further strengthen the ownership proposition.
Is it perfect? No. The price point puts it beyond the reach of many Australian families, the boot could be more practical, and the styling – while distinctive – won’t appeal to everyone. Some may also question the need for a sedan in a market increasingly dominated by SUVs (though Hyundai has that covered with the IONIQ 5).
But for those who are ready to make the electric transition and want a vehicle that doesn’t compromise on driving enjoyment, the 2025 IONIQ 6 – especially in N Line form – makes a compelling case. It’s a car that satisfies both the rational and emotional aspects of the purchasing decision – delivering efficiency and technology alongside style and performance.
As Australia’s electric vehicle market continues to mature, the 2025 IONIQ 6 stands as evidence that the future of motoring doesn’t have to be boring, compromise-laden, or devoid of character. It’s a bold statement from Hyundai and one that deserves serious consideration from anyone in the market for a premium electric vehicle.
Specifications: 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 6 N Line AWD
Price: $89,900 (before on-road costs)
Powertrain: Dual electric motors, all-wheel drive
Power/Torque: 275kW/650Nm
Battery: 77.4kWh lithium-ion
Range: 550km (WLTP)
0-100km/h: 4.7 seconds (claimed)
Energy Consumption: 17.8kWh/100km (combined)
Charging: 10-80% in 18 minutes (350kW DC)
Dimensions: 4855mm (L), 1880mm (W), 1495mm (H)
Wheelbase: 2950mm
Boot Capacity: 401 litres (rear), 45 litres (front)
Weight: 2200kg (approx.)
Warranty: 5 years/unlimited km vehicle, 8 years/160,000km battery