Summary

  • The Kia EV6 outperforms the Hyundai Ioniq 5 in terms of horsepower and torque, making it a more powerful and faster option.
  • California residents can get a better deal on the 2023 Kia EV6, with a base price of $42,600 for the Light trim model.
  • The Kia EV6 is geared more towards performance, offering a sportier ride and more powerful options, while the Ioniq 5 focuses on comfort and is better suited for everyday commuting.

The Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 are built on the same platform, share the same electric powertrain, and feature the same technological features, so it’s understandable if you think they are really the same car. This isn’t your typical case of badge engineering, though. The truth is, while the EV6 and Ioniq 5 share a lot of similarities, they both excel at different things in their own unique way.

While choosing which one is best might depend largely on personal preference, the fact of the matter is that both cars are reliable, both benefit from one of the fastest charging options available today, and both have their own style. After all, Kia and Hyundai Motor Group operate independently, but Hyundai is the parent company of Kia Motors. They share similarities but also many unique attributes on their own.

Updated on 6th September 2023: With the Ioniq 5 and EV6 still neck and neck, it's no shock the differences between the models continue to grow. This article has been refreshed with new differences between the two of them, as well as specs and 2024 upgrades. Can the EV6 keep up with Hyundai's rapidly expanding Ioniq 5?

Related: 5 Electric Cars Worth Buying (And 5 Electric Cars You Should Stay Away From)

1 The Specs Don't Lie: The 2023 Kia EV6 Is King

A parked Kia-EV6
Kia
  • Kia EV6 proves more impressive in specs compared to Hyundai's Ioniq 5.
  • The Kia EV6 has better horsepower, torque, and horsepower.

Between the Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5, there are advantages (and disadvantages) regarding specs. For instance, the horsepower on the EV6 is more impressive than the Ioniq 5 and also holds true for torque. Typically, electric vehicles are fast and quiet, with the EV6 proving to be a beast on the road. Hyundai's Ioniq 5 is still great for a mid-level vehicle but doesn't perform better than EV6 in most categories.

Kia EV6 Specs

Motor

Dual motor

Horsepower

320 to 576 horses

Torque

258 to 545 pound-feet

Battery

58-77.4 kWh

Range

232 miles

MSRP

$42,600 (California) / $48,700 (Everyone else)

You can see that the horsepower on EV6 is impressive, making up for the limited battery range. However, the upcoming 2024 EV6 promises closer to 310 miles per full charge, so it might be worth holding out until then.

Hyundai Ioniq 5 Specs

Motor

Single or dual-motor

Horsepower

168 to 320 horses

Torque

258 to 446 pound-feet

Battery

58 kWh or 77.4 kWh

Range

220–300 miles

MSRP

$41,450

Again, not bad specs at all, but not as impressive as EV6 in most categories.

2 California Drivers Get A Deal On The 2023 EV6

Kia EV6 exterior
Kia
  • California Kia EV6 buyers can get a Light trim model for $42,600.
  • This deal is exclusive to California residents and does not apply to the other 49 states.

Although this only applies to some of you reading, the 2023 Kia EV6 has a base MSRP of $42,600. This is if someone purchases the 'Light' trim level, which is only available in California. For the 49 other states, the Wind RWD trim is the new base model, which starts at $48,700. That would put this EV closer to Hyundai Ioniq's base price, but only for residents of the Golden State. Regardless, it's a great incentive for one of Kia's biggest markets, so let's hope they do something like this for all states in 2024/2025.

3 The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N Has A Simulated Manual Transmission

Silver 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 front
Hyundai
  • The 2023 Ioniq 5 N models boast a simulated gearbox/manual transmission.
  • This does not affect the battery but works like a video game in the interior cabin.

One of the major perks of buying into the Ioniq 5 family is that the N model offers a simulated manual transmission and gearbox, giving drivers the feeling of a regular, gas-powered manual car. This has not been done before the Ioniq 5 N, with Hyundai creating a technology to mimic the experience of manually shifting gears in your electric vehicle. One thing to note is this does not affect battery performance or life. It is purely aesthetic.

Related: Comparison: Kia EV6 vs Chevy Blazer EV

4 Kia's EV Sales (Including EV6) Don't Compare To Hyundai's Ioniq 5

2024 blue Hyundai Ioniq 5 N
Hyundai
  • As of 2023, the Hyundai Ioniq family is out-selling Kia's EV6.
  • Both companies have seen slowed growth in EV sales for these models.

Although both the EV6 and Ioniq 5 have been selling well for their respective brands, the Ioniq 5 / 5 N has proven to be received better overall. Specifically, Ioniq 5 sales are now up 13 percent YTD compared to last year, with 17,776 units sold. Hyundai sold 3,572 Ioniq 5 in August 2023, while the Kia EV6 sold 10,000-12,000 total in 2023 thus far. Hyundai Ioniq is seeing a spike in interest, while the EV6 continues to do alright, but not better than last year by any means.

5 There Will Be More Changes In 2024 For The Kia EV6

Kia EV6 Interior
Kia
  • There will be more noticeable changes in the 2024 Kia EV6.
  • Hyundai will use the 2024 Ioniq 5 as a 'carry-over' model.

With the 2024 EV6 and Ioniq 5 quickly approaching, it's only worth it to mention what changes you can expect to see in both models. For instance, the Ioniq 5 is reported to be a carry-over model with just a few small changes related to safety and convenience features. In contrast, the 2024 Kia EV6 should undergo significant changes in terms of safety, comfort, and slight tweaks to the exterior. EV6 also promises to improve upon an already outstanding electric crossover SUV, which Kia has big bets on for this upcoming calendar year. The Ioniq 5 appears to be doing good enough for Hyundai not to mess with it, while the Kia EV6 needs a bit more of a change to garner attention.

6 The Kia EV6 Is Geared More Toward Performance

Kia EV6
Kia
  • Kia EV6 comes in three trims: Wind, GT-Line, and GT.
  • This model is known to be faster and more powerful between the two brands.

The Kia EV6 is offered in three trim levels: Wind, GT-Line, and GT, with the first two offered in both RWD and AWD configurations and the GT only as an AWD model. The first two models are powered by either an electric motor mounted on the rear axle that delivers a total of 225 horses and 258 pound-feet of torque or two electric motors - one on each axle – that deliver a combined 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque.

The EV6 GT, on the other hand, features a dual-motor setup with 576 horsepower and 545 pound-feet of torque. Just like the EV6, the Ioniq 5 is also offered in three trims, but it is a lot less powerful. The base model is powered by a single, rear-mounted electric motor and can be had with either a standard-range battery when it delivers a total of 168 horsepower, or a longer-range battery, in which case the output is increased to 225 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The range-topping model has a dual-motor setup with 320 horses and 446 pound-feet of torque.

Related: 10 Reasons Why The Kia EV6 Should Be Your First EV

7 The Hyundai Ioniq 5 Has A More Comfortable Ride

Hyundai Ioniq 5
Hyundai
  • The Ioniq 5 is a smoother ride versus Kia's EV6.
  • Most drivers prefer the Ioniq 5's drive for everyday commuting.

When it comes to choosing between the EV6 and the Ioniq 5, it all depends on what type of driving experience you want behind the wheel. The EV6’s suspension gives it a firmer, sportier ride, which makes it perfect for the drivers looking for some sort of adventure. If, on the other hand, you want a car suitable for your family, the Ioniq 5 is the better choice. It offers a more comfortable ride, and thanks to its softer suspension, it "does a better job at smoothing over ruts and bumps in the road."

With the EV6, however, you can expect a bit more fun and rumble on the roads. This might be perfect for some, but it can be a headache on bumpier roads/highways during everyday commuting.

8 The EV6 Has A Sportier Ride

Kia EV6 GT
Kia
  • The Kia EV6 will be more fun for racing and high-thrill driving.
  • Many riders feel this model checks off more boxes for performance than the Ioniq 5.

Despite the two models being similar in so many ways, they are quite different when it comes to ride and handling. According to Motortrend, "Kia's ride is the sportier of the two, and it's tuned such that it perfectly walks the line between too firm and too soft." The model is offered as standard with a multi-link rear suspension that improves the sporty feeling and makes the car a lot more responsive. In the EV6 GT, things are even better. The model was built on an overall improved chassis and features Electronic Control Suspension (ECS). The latter changes the damping force according to the driving conditions and improves the car's ride. The suspension is also improved, so the EV6 GT features a more robust and agile ride.

9 The Ioniq 5 Loses The Range Battle

EV6 GT dynamic driving red
Drive Time Productions LLC
  • Hyundai Ioniq 5 does not boast as much range as the EV6.
  • Both models are capable of quick-charging peak rates of 235 kW, only needing 18 minutes to charge from 10 to 80 percent.

Both the EV6 and the Ioniq 5 are built on the same E-GMP platform and share the same electric motors and batteries. They are both capable of quick-charging at peak rates of 235 kW, and they need only 18 minutes to go from 10 to 80 percent - making them two of the fastest-charging EVs currently available. But, the big difference between the two models is the range. For the Ioniq 5, the range is anywhere between 220 and 303 miles, based on the model and the battery, while for the EV6, the range goes from 252 to 310 miles in the standard models. The EV6 GT has a range of 206 miles.

Related: The Most Reliable Electric Cars According To Consumer Reports

10 The EV6 Is The Kia Stinger Of The Crossover World

Silver Kia EV6
Kia
  • Kia EV6 is faster than the Hyundai Ioniq 5.
  • EV6 RWD models can go 0-60 mph in 7.2 seconds, while the EV6 GT hits it in 3.4.

As you probably imagined, the extra power makes the EV6 a little bit faster too. The EV6 RWD models can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds, while the AWD makes the same sprint in 5.1 seconds. The EV6 GT, on the other hand, only needs 3.4 seconds to hit 60 mph. The Ioniq 5 is a little bit slower. The base model equipped with the long-range battery needs 7.4 seconds to go from 0 to 60 mph, while the 320-horsepower version goes from 0 to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds. However, it should be noted that a test drive made by the guys over Car and Driver revealed that the more powerful Ioniq 5 does the 0 to 60 mph sprint in 4.5 seconds.

11 The Ioniq 5 EV Has The More Practical Cabin

Hyundai Ioniq 5 Rear Interior
Safet Satara | TopSpeed 
  • The interior cabin of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 feels more practical for drivers/passengers.
  • Although the EV6 is bigger than Ioniq 5, it doesn't offer as much headroom or cargo space.

As we've already mentioned, the two models are built on the same platform, and the Ioniq 5 has a slightly longer wheelbase: 118.1 vs. 114.2 inches. But, despite this difference, the EV6 is the bigger car: it measures 184.3 inches in length, 74.0 inches in width, and 60.8 inches in height. On the other hand, the Ioniq 5 is measured at 182.5, 74.4, and 63.0 inches, respectively. Looking at the numbers, you would think the EV6 would have a more practical cabin, but that's not exactly true.

Taller passengers will feel a lot more comfortable in the rear seats of the Ioniq 5, as it offers more space. The rear headroom is 38.7 inches, and the rear legroom is 39.4 inches. In the EV6, the rear headroom is 38.0 inches, and the rear legroom is 39.0 inches. The Ioniq 5 also wins in terms of cargo room: it has 27.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with the seats down. On the other hand, the EV6 has a cargo room of 24.4 and 50.2 cubic feet.

12 Kia Has Offered A Driver-Focused Cabin In The EV6

interior driving EV6 GT
Drive Time Productions LLC
  • Kia's EV6 has a more modern interior wrapped in vegan leather.
  • The driver has two 12.3-inch screens curved around them: something Ioniq 5 doesn't.

The EV6's modern and eco-friendly cabin has been designed to offer a comfortable and stress-free experience for both the driver and all occupants. The seats are wrapped in vegan leather and are both heated and ventilated. The two 12.3-inch-wide screens are curved around the driver, so he has a better look at all vehicle information. They can be customized according to the driver’s personal wishes and preferences and display details on speed, remaining range, charging status, navigation, and other vital car information. Both screens are covered in chemically toughened glass that improves both visibility and durability. Just like the Ioniq 5, the EV6 is offered with an Augmented Reality (AR) Head-Up Display (HUD) system that projects graphics from the base of the windshield in a large three-dimensional image.

Related: 5 Ways The Hyundai Ioniq 5 Is Better Than The Ford Mustang Mach-E (And 5 Ways How It Isn't)

13 Hyundai’s ‘Universal Island’ Moveable Center Console Is Unique

Hyundai Ioniq 5 Interior
Hyundai
  • Hyundai included its 'Universal Island' moveable center console in the Ioniq 5.
  • This gives drivers and passengers more storage for food/drinks/items.

We are not saying the interior of the EV6 is not just as amazing, but it is something you see on every other EV these days. Hyundai, on the other hand, took a step forward and made its cabin a lot more appealing. One of the coolest features it offers is the so-called “Universal Island” center console that moves back and forth 5.5 inches. This way, both the driver and the rear passengers can exit both ways when parked in a narrow spot. The Ioniq 5 also features a magnetic dashboard that allows you to place pictures and notes just as you would on the refrigerator, for example. The entire cabin is made from eco-friendly materials like fibers made from crushed PET plastic bottles and sustainable fibers such as sugar cane bio components, wool, and poly yarns.

14 Ioniq 5's Retro vs. EV6's Modern Approach

Red Color Kia EV6
Kia
  • The Hyundai Ioniq is often described as the more 'retro' design between it and EV6.
  • Both vehicles are unique in design, but EV6 feels more modern/futuristic.

When it comes to design, it is just a matter of taste when picking the model you like best. Both models are unique in their own ways and look like no other EV on sale. Despite general beliefs, both are compact crossovers and not hatchbacks, with the Ioniq 5 being a little bit taller. The EV6 features a coupe-like profile that gives it a sporty look, while the Ioniq 5 went for a more retro look that makes you say, "Wow!" Its design was inspired by the Hyundai Pony Coupé concept from 1974, and there's a small hint of Lancia Delta too. Both the headlights and the taillights have a unique Sci-Fi look, and the wheels are also a head-turner. In general, the Ioniq 5's angular look fits the car perfectly and will help Hyundai sell a lot more cars.

15 One Model Is Cheaper Than The Other

2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5
Hyundai 
  • The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is more affordable than the Kia EV6.
  • For a base model, drivers can expect to spend $41,450 on the Ioniq 5, while the EV6 is $48,700 (unless in California).

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 takes another point when it comes to prices. For the 2023 model year, Hyundai announced a new Ioniq 5 SE Standard Range trim, which makes the price gap between the two models even bigger. With the new additions, the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5 ranges in price from $41,450 for the base model to $56,500 for the Limited AWD model. Kia's EV, on the other hand, is a lot more expensive. The 2023 Kia EV6 price starts from $48,700 for the base EV6 Wind and goes up to $61,600 for the EV6 GT. Things were a little bit different for the 2022 model year when the Ioniq 5 price was a lot higher than the EV6’s price. And that’s because, for the 2022 model year, Kia was offering an EV6 Light trim priced at only $40,900.