Hyundai has unveiled its largest and most luxurious electric SUV, the Ioniq 9. Combining striking design with cutting-edge technology and performance, this model aims to challenge premium competitors. Boasting a range of over 600 kilometers, a spacious seven-seat interior, and advanced architecture, the Ioniq 9 is not just Hyundai’s flagship offering but also an ambitious bid to penetrate a segment dominated by brands like Audi, BMW, and even Range Rover.
Design and Technology Inspired by Concept
The production version of the Hyundai Ioniq 9 takes cues from the three-year-old Seven concept, showcasing a futuristic design approach. Highlights include pixelated headlight and taillight graphics, a low drag coefficient of 0.259, and optional digital side mirrors using cameras—all emphasizing its modern and technologically advanced nature.
Buyers can choose from up to 16 body colors and wheels ranging from 19 to 21 inches, including premium “Caligraphy” variants.
Spacious and Eco-Friendly Interior
The interior comes in six- or seven-seat configurations, prioritizing comfort. Thanks to the extended wheelbase (3130 mm), there’s ample space, even in the third-row seats. Materials are eco-conscious, with Hyundai utilizing recycled PET bottles, synthetic leather, and sustainable textiles.
Technology features include a 12-inch digital instrument cluster paired with an equally large infotainment touchscreen. The standard audio setup includes eight speakers, while an upgrade to a 14-speaker Bose premium audio system is available. USB-C ports provide up to 100-watt power output, thanks to the main battery, bypassing the traditional 12-volt system.
Powerful Drivetrains
The Ioniq 9 is built on the E-GMP platform, featuring an 800-volt architecture that enables ultra-fast charging. Using a 350 kW charger, the battery can go from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes. Its high-capacity 110.3 kWh battery powers three drivetrain variants:
- Long Range (RWD, 215 hp): Up to 620 km range, 0–100 km/h in 9.4 seconds.
- Long Range AWD (308 hp): 515 km range, 0–100 km/h in 6.7 seconds.
- Performance AWD (429 hp): 500 km range, 0–100 km/h in 5.2 seconds.
Practicality is a priority, with features like Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) allowing users to power external devices—a boon for campers or those needing backup power during outages.
Price and Availability
The Hyundai Ioniq 9 will launch in the first half of 2025, debuting in South Korea and the U.S. before expanding to European markets. Prices are expected to start at around 72,000 Euro (£60,000), with the top-end Performance variant potentially reaching 89000 Euro (£75,000).
Does the World Need Another Large SUV?
As demand for EVs slows and automakers face challenges in growing this segment, one must ask: Does the world need another massive electric SUV? While models like the Hyundai Ioniq 9 offer state-of-the-art technology, are they truly a step toward a sustainable future, or just another luxury product catering to a niche audience?
Leave a Reply