# Hyundai IONIQ 6 — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Hyundai IONIQ 6 on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/hyundai-ioniq-6

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2023
- **Ideal trim**: SE
- **Target mileage**: 30,000–45,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 2
- **Target price**: £24,484

## Why this model

The Hyundai IONIQ 6 is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a stylish, efficient, and well-equipped electric car. It stands out with its unique 'streamliner' design, which isn't just for looks – it's incredibly aerodynamic, helping with range. Built on the same E-GMP platform as the IONIQ 5 and Kia EV6, it benefits from rapid charging capabilities and a spacious interior. Hyundai's reputation for reliability and a good warranty package also makes it a sensible long-term buy. With the used EV market softening, a 2023 model offers excellent value after the initial depreciation hit.

## What you should pay

The used EV market has seen significant adjustments, making the IONIQ 6 a more accessible option now. Our target price of around £24,484 for a 2023 model reflects this market shift. This price point represents a good balance, as the car has already taken its steepest depreciation hit. The 50kWh usable battery (from the 53kWh nominal pack) is liquid-cooled, which is great for battery health and longevity, with an expected degradation of only about 1.8% per year. This means a 3-year-old model should still have around 94.6% of its original capacity, giving you plenty of usable range.

## Which trim to buy

For the 53 kWh battery version, the SE trim is the ideal choice for best value. It comes with a strong standard specification, including the excellent infotainment system, advanced safety features, and comfortable interior, without the higher price tag of the larger battery variants. You get the core IONIQ 6 experience – the distinctive design, efficient powertrain, and rapid charging – at the most attractive price point on the used market.

## What to check before you buy

- Check for any software glitches or infotainment system bugs, as early models can sometimes have these.
- Inspect the charging port for any damage or wear, especially if it's been used frequently with public rapid chargers.
- As with any EV, a pre-purchase inspection should include a battery health check, though the liquid-cooled system helps maintain longevity.
- Ensure all driver assistance features (like adaptive cruise control, lane keeping) are functioning correctly.

## Running costs

Running an IONIQ 6 is very cost-effective, especially if you can charge at home. Using a standard home electricity rate (24.5p/kWh), you're looking at about 5.9p per mile, which works out to roughly £592 per year for 10,000 miles. If you switch to a smart EV tariff like Octopus Go or Intelligent Octopus (around 9p/kWh overnight), this drops significantly to about 2.2p per mile, or just £217 per year for 10,000 miles – a saving of £375 annually! Road tax for EVs is currently free until April 2025, after which it will be £195 per year. Insurance costs will vary based on your personal circumstances, but the IONIQ 6 generally falls into a mid-range bracket. Avoid relying on public rapid chargers for daily use, as they can cost 17.1–20.7p per mile.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Electric
- **Horsepower**: 151 PS
- **Mpg**: 4.1 mi/kWh
- **Reliability Score**: Excellent
- **Safety Rating**: 5-star Euro NCAP (2022)

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| SE | £47,000 | £24,000 | 53 kWh battery; 18-inch alloy wheels; LED headlights |
| Premium | £50,000 | £27,000 | 77.4 kWh battery; 20-inch alloy wheels; Heated front seats & steering wheel |
| Ultimate | £53,000 | £30,000 | 77.4 kWh battery (AWD option available); Digital side mirrors; Electric sunroof |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £24,484 | 0% |
| 2027 | £21,780 | 11% |
| 2028 | £19,384 | 20.8% |
| 2029 | £17,252 | 29.6% |
| 2030 | £15,354 | 37.3% |

Buying a 2023 IONIQ 6 in 2026 places you in a sweet spot for depreciation. The steepest drop in value, which typically occurs in the first 2-3 years of a car's life, has already happened. While EVs are still seeing some market adjustments, buying now means you're getting a significantly reduced price compared to new, and the future depreciation curve is expected to be more gradual. You're letting someone else take the biggest hit!

Total value lost since new: 37.3%.

## Alternatives to consider

- [Tesla Model 3](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/tesla-model-3.md)
- [Kia EV6](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/kia-ev6.md)
- [Polestar 2](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/polestar-2.md)

---

Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.