The Hyundai IONIQ 9 is a brand-new, three-row, all-electric SUV that combines cutting-edge design and advanced EV technology, offering a spacious and comfortable interior for up to seven occupants.
Design and Aerodynamics
The IONIQ 9 boasts a sleek and futuristic “Aerosthetic” design, with a streamlined silhouette and flush surfaces. It has a smooth, curved roofline that contributes to its impressive drag coefficient of just 0.259 Cd when equipped with digital side mirrors. Notably, the IONIQ 9 is Hyundai’s first production car without a roof antenna, opting for integrated antennas in the windshield cover, tailgate glass, and dashboard for a cleaner look and improved airflow. The SUV also features aluminum fenders, both front and rear, a first for Hyundai.
Interior Space and Comfort
The interior of the IONIQ 9 is designed to be a “space for belonging,” offering superior roominess and a lounge-like atmosphere.
Features that contribute to its comfortable and spacious interior include:
- Relaxation Seats: Available in the first and second rows, these seats fully recline with a leg rest for optimal comfort, allowing up to four people to relax during charging.
- Swiveling Seats: The second-row seats can swivel to face the third row when the vehicle is stationary, facilitating conversation and interaction.
- Roomy Third Row: The IONIQ 9 offers generous headroom and legroom in all three rows, ensuring a comfortable experience for all passengers.
- Universal Island 2.0: This slidable centre console provides ample storage and allows for a walk-through front-row seating arrangement.
- Panoramic Sunroof: The sunroof allows natural light to flood the cabin, enhancing the spacious and airy feel.
Technology and Convenience
The IONIQ 9 is packed with advanced technology and convenience features, including:
- Hyundai AI Assistant: An AI-enabled voice recognition system similar to a home virtual assistant that utilises generative AI from ChatGPT to enhance the driving experience.
- Features on Demand (FoD): This service allows customers to personalize their vehicles with digital upgrades, such as dynamic lighting patterns, entertainment packages, and display themes.
- Hyundai CarPay: This innovative in-car payment system enables drivers to pay for parking directly from their vehicle.
- Digital Side Mirrors: Replacing traditional glass mirrors, these display a side-rear view on a seven-inch OLED monitor, enhancing safety and aerodynamics.
- Remote Smart Parking Assist 2: This feature enables the IONIQ 9 to park itself remotely, handling both parallel and perpendicular parking.
- Highway Driving Assist 2: This Level 2 autonomous driving system assists with speed and distance control and lane changes.
Powertrain and Performance
The IONIQ 9 is built on Hyundai’s E-GMP platform and features a high-capacity 110.3 kWh battery. It is available in three powertrain options: Long-Range RWD, Long-Range AWD, and Performance AWD.
- The Long-Range RWD model offers the longest range, with a WLTP-estimated 620 km (385 miles).
- The Performance AWD model delivers the quickest acceleration, going from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 5.2 seconds.
- All models offer fast charging capabilities, with the ability to charge from 10 to 80 percent in just 24 minutes using a 350 kW charger.
Sustainability
The IONIQ 9 demonstrates Hyundai’s commitment to sustainability through its use of eco-friendly materials, including Eco Process Leather, recycled PET fabric, wool fabric, and paint made from recycled tire waste.
Availability and Pricing
The Hyundai IONIQ 9 is scheduled to go on sale in Korea and the United States in the first half of 2025, with a rollout to Europe and other markets planned for later. Pricing has not yet been announced but is expected to be “competitive” with the Kia EV9, which starts around $55,000.
