While I usually cover the latest tire news or even the occasional automotive story on this blog, let me make an exception this week. For the first time as a columnist, I received an invitation to Vancouver to test drive the latest Hyundai IONIQ 6 at its Canadian launch in March. Far be it from me to brag, though. First and foremost, it was an incredible automotive discovery and beautiful views, enhanced by the prowess of the Pirelli P Zeros it was equipped with. Yes, the roads in British Columbia were winding!
Fun to drive, yes, but what a range!
First, a little about the car. After all, it's the reason I made this trip! Being an avid fan of its cousin, the small IONIQ 5 SUV, I was already familiar with the platform on which the new Hyundai is built. Both models offer the same engine and battery choices, yet their range is quite different. The top-of-the-line model with a long-range battery and 320-horsepower all-wheel drive, for example, can go up to 435 kilometers without recharging. Surprisingly, that's the shortest range available, with the rear-wheel drive model going up to 581 kilometers.
The secret is in plain sight: its ultra-aerodynamic design, whose drag coefficient of 0.22 can be compared to that of... a Porsche 911! If this makes driving more efficient than ever, it also brings some problems such as a small cabin, especially in the back, and a decent, but far from breathtaking cargo capacity. As for the look, you either like it or you don't. I'm still in the IONIQ 5 camp, but I admit I was slightly won over by its sleek curves.
From Vancouver to Porteau Cove
Where the P Zero come into play is during our test drive on a mixed urban and rural route provided by the Morrisport team. From the city's busy highways to the historic fort of Langley, we particularly enjoyed the different driving modes, highlighted by the efficiency of the Pirelli. However, it was on the road between the Cypress Mountain ski resort and the (absolutely beautiful) Porteau Cove Park that they really proved their worth. On the sharp curves through the mountain, their grip was welcome, although the IONIQ's low center of gravity makes it inherently quite stable.
I'm far from an expert on the automotive market, but I have to admit that I think this is a vehicle that will make people react. From those who fear electrics for fear of "running out of juice" to other manufacturers who will soon have to keep up with Hyundai’s pace, there is much more to come from the IONIQ 6.
