Yes, it’s true, the updated version of the EV6 GT is on the way – and we can’t wait to test it again, especially since the two cars will become even more similar. But even now, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N and Kia EV6 GT are both very interesting offerings – two different takes on the same concept. Which one? That of not compromising – or almost not – when it comes to fun in electric supercars.
Supercars, yes, but of the two, the Ioniq 5 N is more track-focused, while the EV6 GT leans more towards being a modern Grand Tourer, albeit with some pretty tasty killer features. Both are built on the group’s E-GMP platform, both support 800-volt architecture, but the Kia is produced in North America and in Hwaseong, South Korea, while the Ioniq 5 is built in Ulsan, also in South Korea.
Want to learn more? Check out our separate reviews of the two models here and here.
1 – Design and Dimensions
There’s not much to say about the design – both are stylish and well-thought-out in their own way. It’s really down to personal taste which one you prefer. Personally, I prefer the Ioniq 5, but the EV6 GT is also very attractive – the first embodiment of the “Opposites United” philosophy, winning design awards for its ability to represent aerodynamic flow on four wheels.
On the other hand, the Ioniq 5, with its Parametric Pixel Light design, has revolutionized the brand’s design language, opting for a retro aesthetic that pays homage to one of Hyundai’s first cars, the Giugiaro-designed Hyundai Pony.
Both are large crossovers: the EV6 GT is 4.68 meters long, the Ioniq 5 N is 4.72 meters – nearly 10 cm longer than the standard Ioniq 5 (which measures 4.64 m), due to aesthetic enhancements that also lowered the stance. Both offer a 2.9-meter wheelbase.
Winner: Both
2 – Interiors
Inside, it’s more obvious that these two belong to the same group, as the interiors are quite similar – which is a good thing.
Both use recycled materials for the seat upholstery, though the Ioniq 5 N has a much sportier setup and stands out significantly from the “standard” Ioniq 5: it features dedicated N seats, a steering wheel with a third spoke and specific buttons – like the iconic N button that activates the boost or race mode – along with specific settings in the infotainment system, primarily to monitor the car’s status on track, but not exclusively. This doesn’t come at the expense of space, nor of the Shucko plug under the rear bench, which remains.
In contrast, the Kia EV6 GT stands out less from the other EV6 models, except for some Lime accents that match the gorgeous alloy wheels, and the GT button that unleashes lightning-fast acceleration. In general, though, it’s clear which of the two was developed with the track in mind.
Winner: Ioniq 5 N
3- Software and User Experience
There’s little to say about the software – it works well on both, but doesn’t particularly excel. A shame, considering how much the group focuses on tech.
The Ioniq 5 N has the more recent system (which will also come to the new EV6 GT), and it’s smoother, supports wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, and overall feels more refined. It also includes additional N-specific customizations that the EV6 GT lacks.
That said, for a car like the Ioniq 5 N, all that touch control can get annoying and actually works better on the EV6 GT given its more touring-oriented nature. Navigating through menus that are still too convoluted is not ideal for a supercar, which slightly undermines the experience.
Winner: EV6 GT
4 – Performance and Driving
Here, the Ioniq 5 N has a clear advantage. It’s not just about the 585 hp in the Kia versus the 650 hp in the Hyundai – especially since those figures are only reached momentarily.
It’s the whole setup that’s better engineered: the Ioniq 5 N is born from the racetrack and feels much more engaging overall. From the manual transmission simulator – which replicates gear shifts with surprising realism, not just a video game-style sound – to the brake setup and handling, which is remarkably sharp despite the car’s 2-ton+ weight.
The EV6 GT is a lot of fun on the road, but it struggles on the track, as the brakes aren’t designed to withstand the intense braking such driving demands. It’s also a bit less precise in its setup, still favoring comfort. However, the Drift Mode that activates in GT mode is a nice touch.
Winner: Ioniq 5 N
5- Range
Finally, the range. The EV6 GT still uses the 77.4 kWh battery (soon to be updated to 84 kWh), offering up to 424 km WLTP. The Ioniq 5 N, with its 84 kWh battery, manages a bit more: 448 km WLTP. However, if you drive them the way they were intended, it’s hard to go beyond 200 km – though the 800V architecture and 10–80% recharge in 18 minutes help soften the blow. Still, more could be done, and in this regard, the EV6 GT performs better thanks to its shape and setup, which favor long-distance touring.
Winner: EV6 GT
Prices in Scandinavia
- Ioniq 5 N: from 509,995 DKK;
- EV6 GT (new version): from 499,999 DKK;
- Ioniq 5 N: from 834,900 SEK;
- EV6 GT (new version): from 770,400 SEK;
- Ioniq 5 N: from 681,710 NOK
- EV6 GT (new version): from 729,900 NOK;
