I Drove the Hyundai Ioniq 9. Here’s My Brutally Honest Review originally appeared on Autoblog.
Good at just about everything it promises
The Hyundai Ioniq 9 is the brand’s largest electric SUV, and while its design has a few questionable elements, everything else is a home run. It’s an ideal family hauler, pet-friendly, and a rock-solid road tripper. I came away impressed.
What Is the Hyundai Ioniq 9?
Built on the same E-GMP platform as the Kia EV9, the Ioniq 9 is a three-row electric SUV that starts around $59,000 for the RWD "S" trim and tops out at $77,000 for the loaded "Calligraphy Design" model. Despite the platform sharing, the Hyundai Ioniq 9 is a completely unique vehicle, in terms of performance, looks, and personality.
My SEL tester came in around $67,000 — mid-pack in price, but extremely well-equipped. Cargo space rivals or exceeds the Volkswagen ID. Buzz, and it can tow up to 5,000 lbs — solid numbers for a full-size electric SUV. In many ways, it outshines its Kia cousin. With that being said, it's still a pricy vehicle that forces the consumer to adapt to a different type of thinking. It's a giant battery on wheels (one that now uses NACS for charging), and means compromise for some. Fortunately, it has an outstanding range throughout the lineup.
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Powertrain and performance
The Ioniq 9 comes in three main configurations. The rear-wheel drive (RWD) 'S' model uses a motor that produces 160 kW (or 215 hp), providing an impressive estimated range of 335 miles on a single charge. Those seeking more power and all-wheel drive (AWD) capability will be happy with the 'SE' and 'SEL' trims, which are equipped with a more powerful motor that delivers 226.1 kW (303 hp) and an estimated 320 miles of range.
The top-tier trims, the 'Limited,' 'Calligraphy,' and 'Plus' models, come with a high-performance all-wheel-drive system. This powerful setup generates 314.6 kW (422 hp) with an estimated range of 311 miles.
According to Hyundai, the Ioniq 9 is capable of ultra-fast charging, achieving a 10% to 80% charge in as little as 24 minutes using a 350 kW DC fast charger. It supports both 400V and 800V charging systems, and since it uses NACS, it can utilize Tesla Superchargers.
Daily use: Driving, family, and dogs
My SEL felt quick, even with the mid-level powertrain. Handling is decent, but it's a little top-heavy when pushed. On the other hand, the ride quality is excellent. You are often reminded that you're driving something that weighs as much as a pickup truck, and that most of that weight is underneath you.
Hyundai nails everyday usability. The lane-keeping tech is especially helpful, given the 199.2-inch length and extra-long 132.2-inch wheelbase that's longer than a Tahoe. Even with its size, it was easy to manage on long drives. A round-trip to San Diego (~200 miles) left me with 20% battery from a 75% start, which was very impressive.
The dogs (50 and 75 lbs) had plenty of room with the third row folded, so no complaints from either them or the humans. Everyone rode in comfort, and the load-in height into the back wasn't too high, as my less athletic dog had no issue hopping inside. Storage cubbies, USB-C outlets, and cup holders are also plentiful.
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Interior and cargo space
The Ioniq 9’s cabin is airy and modern, with a curved display housing twin 12.3-inch screens for instruments and infotainment. My SEL lacked the top trims’ “Relaxation Seats,” but still delivered top-notch comfort. The second-row bench seating was roomy, but the third row is best suited for kids or shorter adults.
In terms of cargo space, there is 21.9 cu ft behind the third row, which expands to 46.7 cu ft with the third row folded. With all the seats down, you get a cavernous 87 cu ft of space. There is also a small 3.1 cu ft frunk for the RWD variant that gets slimmed down to 1.8 cu ft in AWD.
Final Thoughts
Hyundai’s EV engineering continues to impress, and the Ioniq 9 is one of the most compelling large electric SUVs on sale today. The styling is debatable, and I didn’t love the gear selector placement, but it delivered on everything else— from comfort to tech to range. There’s real value in the base RWD model, and I’m hopeful Hyundai explores a performance "N" or rugged "XRT" variant next. As it stands, the Ioniq 9 is a family-ready EV with few compromises.
I Drove the Hyundai Ioniq 9. Here’s My Brutally Honest Review first appeared on Autoblog on Aug 10, 2025
This story was originally reported by Autoblog on Aug 10, 2025, where it first appeared.
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