Which electric sedan is more fun to drive: BMW i4, Polestar 2, Hyundai IONIQ 6?

Which electric sedan is more fun to drive: BMW i4, Polestar 2, Hyundai IONIQ 6?


“I want to replace my Alfa Romeo Giulia with an electric sedan. I would like to know which one offers the best driving pleasure. I am torn between information BMW i4 xDrive40,, Polestar 2 AWD and Hyundai IONIQ 6 Final. I don’t want to know anything about Tesla, there are too many on the road. The ideal would be to be able to do Montreal/Trois-Rivières on one charge in summer and winter. » -Vincent

Answer

Hi, this is a question whose answer is personal. Driving pleasure is defined differently from one person to another. However, the fact remains that there are solid foundations for defining what driving pleasure is.

Hyundai Ioniq 6 End 2024

I will talk about the principles that define pleasure when you are behind the wheel. First, looking for a sedan is a good place to start. The center of gravity is much lower than in an SUV, which allows the car to be stable during cornering. Later, the suspension or, at least, their stability is also important as they control the body movements and control the road defects.

Steering is just as important, it must be precise and communicative, a trait that few electric cars can boast of. Obviously, power and engine response sit at the top of these priorities. Personally, I prefer cars that send more power to the rear axle for more fun in difficult conditions. At this point, you are at the right address on your list. So these are the basic points for my evaluation of the selected models.

Hyundai Ioniq 6 2023 1600 15
Hyundai Ioniq 6 End 2024

3e place : Hyundai IONIQ 6 Ultimate ($)

Although the IONIQ 6 is the best buy in terms of equipment and price of the three models, we don’t get the same level of improvement in driving as the other two. The steering is quite accurate, but seems too light and not communicative enough. Even when switching to Game mode, it doesn’t improve.

The 320 horsepower output is faster, but more linear. With its simple suspension, despite its rugged appearance, we quickly realize that the IONIQ 6, at least in its current form, is more focused on comfort on the road than on the track.

Regarding its freedom, the manufacturer announces 435 kilometers with 20-inch rims. In winter, the range drops below 300 km. So you don’t have time to make the Montreal/Trois-Rivières round trip. Fortunately, the Hyundai IONIQ 6 comes with a 3-level charging capability of up to 239 kilowatts, charging will be fast.

Polestar 2 2024 Performance
Polestar 2 2024 (Performance model shown) Photo courtesy of: Luc-Olivier Chamberland

2e place : Polestar 2 Performance

In Polestar, we find the unique character of Swedish products in driving. It’s hard to describe, it’s a view, but I assure you it’s beautiful. In the case of the Polestar 2, the build quality reflects its great durability.

Life is not lacking, we are talking about 455 horsepower with a preference for the rear axle in terms of power. The steering is very precise and communicative, we really enjoy driving it. Its suspension is very stable. They contribute to maintaining a good road, but, if the surface is very damaged and for a long distance, they become angry.

If battery life is of particular importance to your needs, I would recommend avoiding the Performance version. By opting for the standard 4-wheel drive version, you still keep 421 horsepower, but you gain freedom. This version can go up to 444 km compared to 397 for the Performance in best condition. You should know that these figures are difficult to obtain, because 2 consumes a lot of energy. 300 km in winter will require recharging on the way. In terms of charging power, the Polestar 2 is limited to 155 kilowatts.

BMW i4 xDrive40 2024
BMW i4 xDrive40 2024 Photo courtesy of: Luc-Olivier Chamberland

1re place: BMW i4 xDrive40

BMW has always stood out as one of the car manufacturers that offers the best driving pleasure. Despite the transition to electricity, the Bavarian recipe is preserved. In addition to the weight that one can feel, all the components specific to BMW are maintained.

What makes it shine is undoubtedly the quality of its steering wheel adjustment. He has perfect accuracy, and when it comes to communication, we are one with him. As for the suspension, we find ourselves between the IONIQ 6 and 2. They are firm without compromising comfort and always allow you to have excellent support when cornering.

Power also impresses in its delivery which is once again between 6 and 2. 6 is easier, while 2 is faster. I4 sits in the middle section which is the most balanced of the three.

BMW i4 xDrive40 2024
BMW i4 xDrive40 2024 Photo courtesy of: Luc-Olivier Chamberland

In the 6 and 2, it feels like you are sitting on top because of the presence of the battery or the body configuration. In the i4, you get the same basic space as in a traditional car. In addition, it is BMW that offers the highest level of luxury and comfort on board. Unfortunately, the internal space is limited to 2e row of seats. Like the 2, the i4 comes with a practical tailgate.

When it comes to power, this version of the i4 comes with a good capacity of 396 horsepower. In terms of battery, at 81.5 kilowatt hours, it is the largest of the three. As a result, the range is also greater at the advertised 497 km. Even in winter conditions, it will be able to make the Montreal/Trois-Rivières round trip. That’s a good thing, because the i4 has a minimum charging capacity of just 150 kilowatts.

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