Hyundai Ioniq 6 Gets Bigger Battery, Tesla Supercharger Access, and 2026 U.S. Refresh
Hyundai is stepping up its EV game with a refreshed Ioniq 6, aiming directly at the Tesla Model 3 with substantial upgrades. The upcoming version of the “electrified streamliner” will boast a larger 84 kWh battery, design refinements, and — crucially — native access to Tesla’s Supercharger network in the U.S.
Originally launched at the 2022 Busan International Motor Show, the Ioniq 6 impressed with its sleek, aerodynamic silhouette and fast-charging capabilities. However, it has struggled to match Tesla’s dominance. In 2024, Hyundai sold just 12,264 units of the Ioniq 6 in the U.S., while Tesla moved an estimated 189,903 Model 3s. Q1 2025 hasn’t turned the tide, with sales down 9% year-over-year.
2026 Ioniq 6: What's New?
84 kWh battery (up from 77.4 kWh)
Longest-range EV sedan in Korea: Certified for 568 km by Korea’s Ministry of Environment
Expected U.S. EPA range: Over 581 km, potentially beating the 2025 Tesla Model 3 LR AWD (549 km)
Native NACS port for Supercharger access (coming with the 2026 model)
Sleek design refresh with a more minimalist, progressive look
Sporty Ioniq 6 N Line teased, followed by a high-performance Ioniq 6 N debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed
Hyundai has also confirmed adoption of the North American Charging Standard (NACS). While current Ioniq 6 models can access Tesla Superchargers using an adapter, the 2026 Ioniq 6 will come equipped with a native NACS port for seamless charging.
With the larger battery and expanded charging infrastructure, Hyundai is clearly targeting the pain points that have kept the Ioniq 6 behind in the sales race. The company is also betting on performance appeal, with the upcoming N Line and N performance trims adding excitement to the lineup.
Expect the refreshed Ioniq 6 to hit the U.S. market in early 2026.
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