Hyundai Motor Company has officially unveiled the Ioniq 9, a groundbreaking three-row all-electric SUV. Showcased at the iconic Goldstein House in Los Angeles, this launch underscores Hyundai’s commitment to electrification and innovation. Following the success of the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6, the Ioniq 9 looks to further Hyundai’s EV onslaught with bold styling, cutting-edge technology, and advanced engineering.
Styling: Futuristic Elegance Meets Aerodynamic Excellence
The Ioniq 9’s design embodies Hyundai’s concept of ‘Aerosthetic’ styling, blending sleek aerodynamics with sophisticated aesthetics:
- Exterior Features: Parametric Pixel lighting elements integrate seamlessly into the LED headlamps and lower fascia, creating a futuristic front profile. The vehicle’s silhouette is defined by a curved roofline and flowing rear wheel arch character lines that emphasize its dynamic proportions.
- Aerodynamics: Innovations like digital side mirrors (where allowed by the market), a dual-motion active air flap system, a 3D underbody cover, and hidden antennas achieve a low drag coefficient of 0.259.
- Wheel Options: Standard 19-inch wheels can be upgraded to 20- or 21-inch designs, including a 21-inch wheel on top-tier Calligraphy trim.
- Color Palette: Sixteen exterior colors are available, including new options like Celadon Gray Matte, Sunset Brown Pearl, and Cosmic Blue Pearl.
The rear design echoes the front’s pixel-fused aesthetic, incorporating functional enhancements such as a boat tail shape and a rising lower line for improved aerodynamic performance.
Interior: Spacious, Luxurious, and Sustainable
The Ioniq 9 redefines interior design with a focus on comfort, space, and sustainability:
- Seating Arrangements: The cabin features six—or seven-seat configurations. The first and second rows feature relaxation seats that fully recline and include leg rests. Second-row Swiveling Seats allow passengers to face one another, fostering interaction during stops.
- Material Choices: Hyundai emphasizes sustainability with Eco Process Leather, recycled PET fabrics, and bio-based materials for upholstery and paint.
- Panoramic Sunroof: Enhances natural light, creating a serene lounge-like atmosphere.
- Storage: The innovative Universal Island 2.0 console slides up to 190 mm, offering accessibility and ample storage. With the seats folded, total trunk space reaches 1,323 liters, plus an additional front trunk with up to 88 liters of capacity in RWD models.
- Ambient Enhancements: A panoramic curved display, ambient lighting, and slim air vents create a modern, luxurious feel.
Features and Technology: Innovation at Every Turn
Hyundai has equipped the Ioniq 9 with an extensive suite of advanced features:
- Infotainment: A panoramic curved display combines a 12-inch cluster and a 12-inch infotainment monitor. Options include a premium BOSE 14-speaker sound system with 5.1-channel surround sound and e-Active Sound Design for enhanced EV acoustics.
- Convenience: Features like Bluelink® Connected Car Services, over-the-air updates, and Hyundai AI Assistant enhance usability. The vehicle also includes a digital key function, wireless charging, and high-output USB-C ports in all three rows.
- Innovative Comfort: The Dynamic Body Care system in Relaxation Seats provides massage functionality, while UV-C sterilization trays address health and hygiene.
- Climate Control: Independent climate zones and slim roof air vents optimize comfort for all passengers.
Mechanicals: Power and Efficiency with Advanced Engineering
The Ioniq 9 is built on Hyundai’s acclaimed Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), offering robust performance and efficiency:
- Powertrains:
- Long-Range RWD: 160 kW motor with a WLTP-estimated range of 620 km.
- Long-Range AWD: Additional 70 kW front motor for improved traction.
- Performance AWD: Dual 160 kW motors delivering 0-60 MPH acceleration in 4.9 seconds.
- Battery: A 110.3 kWh high-voltage lithium-ion battery supports a WLTP energy consumption target of 194 Wh/km. Rapid charging enables 10-80% in just 24 minutes with a 350 kW charger.
- Structural Innovation: Aluminum fenders and quarter panels reduce weight, while reinforced body structures and active air flap systems improve aerodynamics and NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) characteristics.
Safety: Advanced Protection and Driver Assistance
The Ioniq 9 prioritizes safety with a reinforced body structure and Hyundai’s latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS):
- Passive Safety: Ten airbags, including third-row pre-tensioners, provide comprehensive protection.
- ADAS Suite: Standard systems include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Safe Exit Warning, and Parking Distance Warning.
- Towing Capability: North American models boast a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs, with intelligent torque distribution and range adjustments.
Release Timeline
The Ioniq 9 will be sold globally in 2025, beginning in Korea and the United States, followed by Europe and additional markets. Detailed specifications and pricing will be announced closer to launch.
