The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 has landed. It builds on the Hyundai Seven concept. This concept debuted four years ago. This new model is a three-row electric vehicle. It brings Hyundai’s distinct design to mid-size crossovers. The Ioniq 9 makes a strong case. It could be the ultimate electric family vehicle.
Key Features and Powertrain Details
The Hyundai Ioniq 9 is an entirely new model. Yet, it shares some existing hardware. It sits on the E-GMP platform. The Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 use this platform. Kia’s EV6 and EV9 also share it. However, the Ioniq 9 is not just a rebranded EV9. It features a slightly longer wheelbase. Its overall length is also increased. It is even larger than the Palisade SUV.
Every Ioniq 9 model comes with a big 110.3-kWh battery. This ensures impressive range. Hyundai offers rear-wheel drive. Two all-wheel-drive setups are also available.
Performance and Towing Capabilities
The top-end Calligraphy version was tested. This model featured the Performance AWD setup. It delivers 422 horsepower. It also boasts 516 lb-ft of torque. Hyundai states this three-row SUV accelerates quickly. It goes from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds. Furthermore, it offers strong towing capacity. It can tow up to 5000 pounds. Trailer brakes must be installed for this.
Driving Dynamics: Comfort Meets Capability
Hyundai has proven its EV building expertise. The Ioniq 9 extends this skill. It enters a new market segment. A McPherson-strut front suspension provides a smooth ride. A multilink rear-suspension setup complements it. Self-leveling dampers also contribute. This ensures comfort. Even with 21-inch rims, the ride is plush.
The vehicle felt genuinely comfortable on highways. This was around Savannah, Georgia. Georgia’s excellent pavement helped. Most bumps were absorbed. Only the largest ones were felt inside. The overall ride quality is like luxury cars. It surpasses Ford or Chevrolet three-row SUVs. This is a significant advantage at its price point.
Handling and Power Delivery
The comfort-focused dampers did not compromise handling. This is a positive surprise. A torque-vectoring system assists turns. The low center of gravity also helps. This comes from the underfloor battery pack. The Ioniq 9 drives smaller than its size suggests.
The steering was direct. However, it lacked much feedback. This is common for many SUVs. It is not an Ioniq 5 N in terms of driving joy. Still, the SUV remained well-mannered. It was effortless to drive around town. It is also a powerful straight-line machine. The dual-motor powertrain delivers instant torque. Most gas-powered rivals cannot match this. Kia plans a GT version of the EV9. Therefore, a more potent Ioniq 9 variant is likely in the future. Most potential customers will be satisfied with current performance.
Regenerative Braking System
The regenerative braking system works well. It effectively substitutes friction brakes in most situations. Adjustments are available via steering-wheel paddles. The highest setting is quite aggressive. It quickly brings the Ioniq 9 to a stop. This happens when the accelerator is released. At times, this rapid deceleration could be uncomfortable for passengers. More practice would likely smooth out the experience.
Interior Comfort and Technology
The Ioniq 9’s interior showcases Hyundai’s quality improvements. The Calligraphy trim features a unique two-tone layout. It includes a handsome green hue. This color extends to the seats and door cards. The front two rows have Relaxation Comfort Seats. These offer advanced recline functions. They also include lower leg rests. Heating and ventilation are standard for these seats. Third-row occupants do not get these luxuries.
The “nature-inspired” shapes inside are appealing. However, some materials felt different than they looked. A large rock-like appliqué sits above the glove box. It appeared somewhat gimmicky in daylight. Yet, the effect was cool in the dark.
Cabin Serenity and Connectivity
Hyundai used acoustic glass in the front two rows. This greatly reduced wind noise. It is common in large SUVs. The brand also borrowed Genesis’s Active Noise Control system. This system uses anti-phase sounds. It cancels unwanted tones. The result is an eerily quiet cabin.
Dual 12.3-inch displays form the gauge cluster. They also manage the infotainment system. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are supported. A superfast 100-watt USB-C port is available. A wireless charging pad keeps phones powered. Hyundai plans to roll out Vehicle-to-X charging. However, this feature was not tested. The Ioniq 9 uses NACS charging ports. An adapter for non-Tesla stations is included. It is stored in the front trunk.
Market Position and Value Proposition
The electric three-row SUV segment is new. The Hyundai Ioniq 9 will compete with several rivals. These include the Tesla Model X and Lucid Gravity. Volvo EX90, Cadillac Escalade IQ, and Rivian R1S are also competitors. Even in its highest trim, the Hyundai is more affordable. This is impressive considering its premium feel. Its potent 800V architecture adds value. It functions as a three-row SUV that happens to be electric. It asks very little for this transition. This vehicle could convert EV skeptics.
Its most direct rival is closer to home. The related Kia EV9 is notably more affordable. However, it lacks the same range and features. While the Performance Calligraphy trim offers many niceties, the SE AWD model is a genuine bargain. It costs $64,365 with destination. It delivers 303 horsepower. It maintains the 5000-pound maximum tow rating. It also promises up to 320 miles of range.
Highlights and Areas for Improvement
We Love:
- Near-silent cabin.
- Plush ride quality.
- Potent 800V architecture.
We Don’t:
- Aggressive one-pedal setup.
- Polarizing styling.
- Limited third-row legroom.
Favorite Detail:
The Relaxation Comfort Seats are excellent. They offer a one-touch extra-deep recline. Every EV should have them. They improve the charging experience greatly. Occupants get a homier place to sit. This is vital during extended top-ups. The seats adjust quickly. The driver’s side moves the steering column forward. This increases space. However, the leg rest could be longer. This would better suit tall drivers.
A Strong Contender for Families
The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 makes a compelling case. It is a class-leading electric vehicle. Its design is stylish. Its performance is robust. It offers excellent range and fast charging. The interior provides premium comfort. Despite minor drawbacks, it presents strong value. It is a serious contender for families. It offers a practical and luxurious EV experience.
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