As US Tariffs Hit EVs, Hyundai Discontinues Its Cheapest IONIQ 6, While Kia Delays EV6 adn EV9 GT
Source: Slashdot
Hyundai Ioniq 6 Discontinuation
Hyundai is discontinuing its most affordable electric sedan after just three years on the market, according to USA Today. Introduced in 2022, the Ioniq 6 quickly earned praise for its pricing and performance, but the automaker is now axing the lower‑priced trims, leaving only the Ioniq 6 N performance version—its quickest, most powerful, and most expensive variant.
The decision is attributed to “disappointing sales and tariff considerations,” as reported by Cars.com. Hyundai sold 10,478 Ioniq 6 units in 2025, a 15 % decline from the 12,264 units sold in 2024. Because the Ioniq 6 is primarily produced in South Korea, it is subject to high import tariffs.
Recent Sales Trends
- Ioniq 5 – Sales rose 14 % in the first two months of 2026, with 5,365 units sold (Electrek).
- Ioniq 6 – Sales fell 77 % in February 2026, with only 229 units sold (Electrek).
- Kia EV6 – Down 53 %, with 600 units sold.
- Kia EV9 – Down 40 %, with 819 units sold (Electrek).
Kia EV6 GT and EV9 GT Delays
A Kia spokesperson told Car and Driver that the 2025 EV6 GT and 2026 EV9 GT will be delayed “until further notice” due to changing market conditions. The delay does not affect the availability of other trims in the EV6 and EV9 lineups.
Broader Context
Kia has already postponed its entry‑level electric sedan, the EV4, which was expected to launch in the U.S. alongside the EV3 compact electric SUV—a top seller in the UK, Europe, and other overseas markets.
Although Hyundai has not explicitly cited policy changes, the Trump administration’s import tariffs and related regulations are likely major factors. Both Hyundai and Kia, like many manufacturers, are hesitant to introduce new EV models to the U.S. under the current tariff regime. The Ioniq 6, EV6 GT, and EV9 GT join a growing list of EVs that have been postponed or canceled.