I'm Reviewing The 2025 Ioniq 6 Second Time, My Friends Are Perplexed "Why", But They Know Not What Sets The Limited Trim Apart From The Limited Long Range

About two weeks ago, I published my review of the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 6 Limited. You can read that story here: "Testing the 2025 Ioniq 6: I Stopped at a Hyundai Dealership to Charge, and the Cost Prompted an Unexpected Detour".

That review was based on real-world driving, range tests, and a short family trip that didn’t quite go as planned. Since then, I’ve had several people mention that article to me - some curious, others skeptical - but one friend’s question yesterday stuck: “Didn’t you already review the Ioniq 6 recently?”

Yes. Yes, I did. But here's the thing. This isn't the same car.

This time, I’m reviewing the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 6 Limited Long Range AWD with 20-inch wheels. That may sound like a minor spec change, but as I’ve discovered after a week of driving it, it’s not. The differences go deeper than you'd think, and they're worth unpacking.

What's Different: Limited vs. Limited Long Range AWD 

At first glance, both trims might seem almost identical: same streamlined exterior, same tech-laden interior, and the same futuristic design language that makes the Ioniq 6 stand out on the road. But under the surface, the Limited Long Range AWD variant brings more power, better traction, and a different kind of drive personality altogether.

Here’s a breakdown of what sets the 2025 Ioniq 6 Limited Long Range AWD 20" apart:

1. Dual Motor AWD vs. RWD

The regular Limited trim of the Ioniq 6 is rear-wheel drive (RWD) with 225 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. It’s efficient and composed, but it doesn’t exactly throw you back in your seat.

The Long Range AWD variant, however, is powered by dual electric motors that push out 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque. That’s more than a subtle difference - it’s enough to shave your 0-60 time to about 5 seconds. The result? Instant acceleration and noticeably tighter cornering. It’s a different driving experience altogether - more Tesla Model 3 Performance than base Model Y.

2. Larger 20-Inch Wheels

The regular Limited rides on 18-inch wheels, prioritizing efficiency and a more forgiving ride.

This Limited Long Range AWD model comes with 20-inch alloys, which give the car a more planted look and slightly sportier road feel. The trade-off? You lose some efficiency, but the road presence is better, and the AWD setup compensates for the stiffer ride by giving you more control.

3. Range and Efficiency

Here's where things get nuanced.

• Limited (RWD) gets an EPA-estimated 361 miles of range.
• Limited Long Range AWD (20") drops to an estimated 270 miles of range due to the extra weight, dual motor configuration, and those larger wheels.

So yes, you’re trading efficiency for performance and all-weather confidence.

For the data-driven readers: the MPGe drops from 117 (for RWD) to 103 MPGe combined in the AWD 20" configuration, according to EPA estimates (111/94 city/highway, respectively, and 33 kW-hrs per 100 miles). That’s still competitive, but worth knowing if range is a top priority.

Real World Driving: Effortless Power and Controlled Grip 

If the RWD Limited is like a luxury cruiser, the Limited Long Range AWD with 20" wheels feels more like a silent sports sedan. The power delivery is immediate and seamless, and Hyundai has tuned the AWD system to feel sure-footed without being overly aggressive.

On winding roads outside Charlotte, the car felt more capable than I expected. It hugs curves with confidence and feels solid at highway speeds. The steering is responsive, and even with the larger wheels, road noise is well-managed thanks to good insulation.

If you live somewhere with snow, or just want more performance than the standard Limited offers, this trim starts to make a lot of sense.

Compared to the Model Y 

A lot of Ioniq 6 shoppers are coming from - or at least considering - the Tesla Model Y. I’ve written before about drivers switching camps. One such story is especially relevant here: "I Traded Two Model Ys for an Ioniq 6 and a Used Bolt – I’m Getting Better Range for Less Money".

That article highlights what some Tesla owners are finding after long-term ownership: while the Model Y wins in software and supercharging, the Ioniq 6 delivers a more refined drive, better cabin materials, and a design that still turns heads.

Now that I’ve driven both Ioniq 6 trims back-to-back, I can say the Limited Long Range AWD with 20” wheels feels more like a Tesla competitor than the regular Limited. It's quicker off the line, feels more planted, and its AWD traction adds assurance Tesla owners are used to.

Inside: Still the Ioniq 6 You Know (And Maybe Love) 

Inside, both versions are identical. That’s not a complaint. You still get:

• Dual 12.3-inch displays that are clear and fast
• Intuitive infotainment system with physical buttons for climate control
• Sustainable materials and minimalist cabin design
• Comfortable seats with heating and ventilation
• Bose premium audio system

Hyundai didn’t skimp here. Whether you're in the RWD or AWD version, the cabin is a tech-forward, airy space that feels more premium than its price might suggest.

Should You Upgrade to the AWD Version? 

Here’s the million-dollar (or maybe $4,000) question. The Limited Long Range AWD with 20" wheels starts around $54,500, while the RWD Limited begins at roughly $48,500. Is it worth the upgrade?

It depends on your priorities.

Choose the AWD version if: 

• You want all-wheel drive for weather confidence or performance
• You value faster acceleration and tighter handling
• You don’t mind sacrificing some range for power

Stick with the RWD Limited if: 

• You prioritize maximum range and efficiency
• You live in a mild climate
• You want the most affordable Limited experience

It's More Than a Trim Difference - It's a Different Character 

I get it now why Hyundai offers both trims. The Ioniq 6 Limited and Limited Long Range AWD might wear similar badges, but they behave like siblings raised in different households.

The Limited is comfortable, composed, and ideal for long-distance commuting.

The Limited Long Range AWD with 20" wheels is confident, dynamic, and unapologetically engaging. It's the Ioniq 6 that punches higher, even if it sacrifices a few MPGe along the way.

What's New or Expected in the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 6? 

While Hyundai hasn't officially unveiled the 2026 Ioniq 6 yet, early industry insights and Hyundai’s typical model evolution suggest that we may see minor design refreshes and a possible software upgrade cycle. Here's what could be in store based on recent patterns and market pressures:

• Improved Infotainment and OTA Updates: Hyundai has been doubling down on its connected car services. The 2026 model could debut a more unified operating system shared across Hyundai-Kia-Genesis EVs with faster over-the-air updates and new UI improvements.
• Extended Range Possibility: Given consumer feedback and rising competition, Hyundai may eke out more efficiency via software optimization or a revised heat pump, potentially pushing the AWD 20” Limited variant’s range closer to 270-280 miles.
• Autonomous Assist Upgrades: Expect enhancements to Highway Driving Assist 2, possibly inching closer to hands-free operation in certain conditions - something that Ford's BlueCruise and GM's Super Cruise are already exploring aggressively.

If you're buying in late 2025 or early 2026, it's worth waiting to see what the next model year brings. But if you love the current Ioniq 6 design and pricing, you're not sacrificing much.

Other Long-Range Electric Sedans Competing with the Ioniq 6 AWD Long Range 

If you're cross-shopping the 2025 or 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 6 Limited Long Range AWD with 20-inch wheels, here are several comparable EVs in the same $50K-$60K price bracket that also target long-range, tech-forward buyers who appreciate sleek design and driving comfort:

Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD

• Price: ~$47,740 before options
• EPA Range: 341 miles (on 18-inch wheels)
• Pros: Tesla’s supercharger network, minimalist cabin, market-leading efficiency
• Cons: Build quality inconsistencies, limited physical buttons, ride quality over bumps

Polestar 2 Long Range Dual Motor

• Price: ~$55,000
• EPA Range: 276 miles
• Pros: Scandinavian design, Google-based infotainment, strong regen braking
• Cons: Tight rear seat space, lower resale value, firm ride

BMW i4 xDrive40 (new 2025 model)

• Price: Starts around $61,000
• EPA Range: ~307 miles (estimated)
• Pros: Performance driving dynamics, premium build quality, rear-biased AWD
• Cons: Pricier trims creep into i5 territory, smaller trunk

Here is the trunk of the 2025 Ioniq 6 Limited Long Range.

Kia EV6 GT-Line AWD

• Price: ~$54,000
• EPA Range: 252 miles (20-inch wheels)
• Pros: Sharp styling, E-GMP platform shared with Ioniq 6, fast charging
• Cons: Less range with larger wheels, tighter rear headroom

Key Comparison Highlights (Why the Ioniq 6 Still Stands Out) 

• ⚡ EPA Range vs. Price: The Ioniq 6 Limited Long Range AWD with 20" wheels delivers up to 270 miles of range (EPA-estimated), which is highly competitive given its pricing in the $53,000 range.
• 🏎 Performance Meets Efficiency: Dual-motor AWD system gives it 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft torque - offering brisk acceleration without sacrificing ride comfort.
• 🧠 Tech Value: It includes Hyundai’s most advanced driver assist suite, dual 12.3” screens, vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability, and ultra-fast 800V DC charging (10-80% in ~18 minutes under ideal conditions).
• 💡 Design Language: Aerodynamic silhouette (0.22 drag coefficient), pixel-style lighting, and premium interior finish set it apart in an increasingly lookalike EV sedan market.
• 🔋 Charging Edge: While not quite Tesla-level for charging infrastructure, Hyundai’s 800V architecture is faster than what’s available on most legacy automakers’ EVs - only Porsche, Genesis, and Lucid currently match it.

What About You? 

Would you trade 90 miles of range for AWD confidence and more performance? Or do you think the RWD version still offers the best bang for the buck?

Let us know your thoughts or share your own Ioniq 6 experience in the comments below.

Armen Hareyan is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, and Youtube. He has more than a decade of expertise in the automotive industry with a special interest in Tesla and electric vehicles.