In a bold move to solidify its position in the electric vehicle market, Hyundai (HYMTF) has unveiled the Ioniq 9, a flagship three-row SUV that blends cutting-edge technology, sleek design, and a spacious interior tailored for modern families.
Announced at the Los Angeles Auto Show, the Ioniq 9 will hit the U.S. and South Korean markets in the first half of 2025, with plans for a European debut later in the year. Here’s what we know so far.
Design: Where Aerodynamics Meet Aesthetics
The Ioniq 9 abandons the boxy profile seen in competitors like the Kia EV9 in favor of Hyundai’s ‘Aerosthetic’ design philosophy. Its curved roofline and boat-tail rear reduce drag to an impressive 0.259 Cd, making it one of the most aerodynamic SUVs in its class.
Pixel-themed LED lighting and flush door handles underscore the futuristic vibe, while wheel options range up to striking 21-inch designs.
Hyundai even ditched the traditional roof antenna, embedding its functions within the windshield and rear glass to maintain a minimalist profile. Optional digital side mirrors take the sleekness up another notch, though this feature will likely vary by market.
Interior: More Than Just a Cabin—It’s a Lounge
Inside, the Ioniq 9 lives up to its flagship status. With a wheelbase of 3.13 meters, the SUV boasts exceptional legroom and headroom across all three rows, with seating for six or seven passengers depending on the configuration. Hyundai calls it a “lounge-like experience,” and for once, that term doesn’t feel overhyped.
The first and second-row seats can recline fully, offering leg rests and Dynamic Touch Massage functionality for enhanced comfort, particularly on long journeys. In select markets, second-row captain’s chairs can swivel to face the third row, creating a more social setting when the vehicle is stationary.
Hyundai also introduced a new Universal Island console that slides up to 190 mm, providing versatile storage and making it easier for passengers in the first and second rows to access.
The interior design emphasizes practicality without compromising on aesthetics. The Ioniq 9 features a flat floor made possible by its E-GMP platform, which not only increases space but also allows for a more open and airy cabin.
A panoramic curved display integrates a 12-inch digital gauge cluster with a 12-inch infotainment screen, blending modern functionality with intuitive controls. Despite the high-tech vibe, Hyundai has retained physical buttons for key functions like climate control and volume.
Storage capacity is another highlight. With all seats in use, the Ioniq 9 offers 620 liters of luggage space, nearly double that of the Kia EV9. Folding down the third row expands this capacity to 1,323 liters. Even the front trunk, or frunk, provides additional storage, with 88 liters available in the rear-wheel-drive variant and 52 liters in the all-wheel-drive model.
Performance: Three Configurations, One Mighty Battery
The Ioniq 9 is powered by Hyundai’s largest battery pack to date, a 110.3 kWh unit that supports both efficiency and performance. Built on the E-GMP platform, the SUV offers three motor configurations. The Long Range RWD variant features a single 160 kW motor, delivering an estimated WLTP range of 620 kilometers (385 miles) and accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.4 seconds.
For those seeking more power, the Long Range AWD model adds a 70 kW front motor, reducing acceleration time to 6.7 seconds. The Performance AWD variant takes it a step further with dual 160 kW motors, achieving a swift 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds.
All variants feature Hyundai’s advanced 800V architecture, enabling DC fast charging from 10 to 80 percent in just 24 minutes when using a 350 kW charger. While the RWD version prioritizes range, the AWD models are expected to deliver slightly lower figures, balancing performance and practicality.
Tech and Features: Packed for the Connected Driver
The Ioniq 9 comes equipped with a suite of advanced features that cater to both drivers and passengers. Hyundai’s AI-Assisted Terrain Mode adjusts suspension and drivetrain settings based on road conditions, ensuring optimal performance across varying terrains.
Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology allows users to power external devices directly from the car’s battery, making it an ideal companion for road trips or outdoor activities. High-output USB-C ports are available in all rows, capable of rapid charging at 100W, a feature powered directly by the high-voltage battery.
Safety and convenience are also top priorities. The Ioniq 9 includes a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, ranging from lane-keeping assistance to collision avoidance and safe exit warnings. Hyundai has even introduced “Features on Demand,” a new approach allowing owners to purchase software-based upgrades for their vehicles, such as enhanced lighting patterns or streaming services.
Charging and Compatibility: Ready for Tesla Superchargers
Hyundai has future-proofed the Ioniq 9 by equipping it with the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port.
This makes the SUV compatible with Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network, a significant advantage for drivers who frequently undertake long-distance journeys in the U.S.
The Competition: A Sibling Rivalry with Kia EV9
While the Ioniq 9 shares much of its DNA with the Kia EV9, it differentiates itself with a larger battery, superior range, and more refined aerodynamics.
Pricing details have not been announced yet, but estimates suggest a range similar to the EV9, which starts at $56,000 and stretches beyond $80,000 for fully loaded trims. Hyundai’s focus on interior space and technology positions the Ioniq 9 as a compelling option for families and tech-savvy drivers alike.
Charge Complete: Hyundai’s Next Big Step
The Ioniq 9 isn’t just Hyundai’s largest EV—it’s a bold statement about the future of electric SUVs. Combining an aerodynamic design, expansive interior space, and advanced technology, it promises to be a strong contender in the three-row EV market.
While final pricing and trim details remain under wraps, the Ioniq 9’s blend of practicality, innovation, and style ensures it will attract attention when it hits the roads in 2025. Hyundai is clearly aiming to redefine what it means to drive electric, and with the Ioniq 9, they’re well on their way.
