Affordable electric vehicles are suffering as car brands adapt to a new automotive environment amid tariffs and weak electricity sales.
Video: First Drive of the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9
The spacious three-row SUV takes Ioniq to a new level of style, comfort and appeal.
- Hyundai will discontinue the most affordable Ioniq 6 electric sedan trim in the U.S. for the 2026 model year.
- Only the higher-performance, more expensive Ioniq 6 N model remains available to U.S. consumers.
- This change reduces the options for affordable electric sedans for U.S. car buyers.
Hyundai is discontinuing production of its most affordable electric sedan, just three years after its launch.
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 started appearing at car shows in 2022 and arrived as a 2023 model. Due to its affordable price and excellent performance specifications, it quickly won the praise of car critics.
Now, Hyundai has discontinued its most affordable version of its EV, leaving consumers with only one option: the Ioniq 6. Here’s why the Korean automaker is discontinuing the Hyundai Ioniq 6’s most affordable trim.
Reasons why Hyundai will discontinue production of Ioniq 6
According to Cars.com, Hyundai will “discontinue production of the regular Ioniq 6 sedan in the U.S. for the 2026 model year.” The nameplate has not been completely discarded (so far). Hyundai will continue producing the Ioniq 6 N performance trim. This is the fastest and most powerful version of Ioniq 6. It is also the most expensive.
According to Cars.com, the South Korean automaker will discontinue the lower-priced trim of the Ioniq 6, citing “unfortunate results considering sales and tariffs.” Hyundai sold 10,478 Ioniq 6 models in 2025, down 15% from 12,264 in 2024, according to the company’s sales report.
Hyundai’s Ioniq 6 is primarily produced in South Korea, so it faces high import duties. Between weak sales, rising import costs, and an anti-EV regime, Hyundai’s move to phase out most trims of the Ioniq 6 is in line with broader industry adaptation.
How will the partial discontinuation of the Ioniq 6 affect car buyers?
Before the end of production, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 SE Standard Series was priced at approximately $37,850 before taxes and fees. It had a power output of 149 horsepower and a range of approximately 240 miles. The electric sedan could be charged from 10% to 80% in about 18 minutes using a 350-kilowatt fast-charging station. There were also SE ($42,800), SEL ($45,600), and Limited ($51,100) trims.
The sudden death of small electric vehicles is a blow to car buyers interested in affordable and practical electric vehicle options. This was perfect for drivers who have installed a home charging station or want to install a home charger to make their charging sessions more convenient.
In terms of competition, the Ioniq 6 was one of the few cars that could pose a threat in the American market to the Tesla Model 3, which dominates small electric vehicle sales. The Ioniq 6’s demise means fewer affordable electric vehicle options for consumers.
Should you buy a 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 6 N?
Drivers may not be able to buy the less capable Ioniq 6 electric car, but the 6 N is still alive and well, with some exciting specs for thrill-seekers.
2026 Hyundai Ioniq 6 N Specs
- Starting from around $70,000
- Maximum output 641 horsepower
- Estimated range is 303 miles
- Accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds
The Ioniq 6 N has impressive power for its size, but this small car wasn’t designed for the average American driver. This is an enthusiast car created for drivers who want an EV with sports car-like acceleration.
Car enthusiast site Autoblog said it “sets a new benchmark” for performance sedans. The Ioniq 6 N is of little use to the average car buyer looking for an inexpensive driver for their daily commute.
