By Leon Brittain
With the expansion of electric vehicle offerings across the auto industry, Hyundai introduced another sustainable nameplate to its e-mobility brand, “IONIQ,” at the 2024 LA Auto Show this week. The Korean automaker’s wildly successful and game-changing IONIQ 5 compact crossover set the tone and the IONIQ 6 sedan continued the movement. Now enter the new 2026 IONIQ 9 three-row, 7-passenger all-electric crossover vehicle (e-SUV).
Hyundai is the third-largest automaker behind Toyota and VW in terms of volume. Thus, they have the resources to keep building progressively. In fact, the IONIQ 9 will be built in the USA at the brand new and fascinating Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) as part of a $12.6 billion investment in Georgia. The dedicated EV and battery manufacturing complex in Bryan County allows the Hyundai Motor Group to expand its presence in the southern state while simultaneously creating jobs and directing financial investments required for local nonprofit organizations to reach their goals.
The production target for the e-SUV is slated for quarter one of 2025 with a proposed on-sale date in quarter two. Company executives expect that the IONIQ 9 will qualify for the full $7,500 federal tax credit. Hyundai would like to bring 23 EV models to market globally by 2030, focusing on intelligent, eco-friendly, and safe mobility technology under its Progress for Humanity mantra. And you can’t beat the Hyundai Complimentary Maintenance package for the first few years of ownership, which is part of the Hyundai Assurance Program. Subsequently, after 2030 Hyundai aims to sell two million EVs annually.
Onsite at the IONIQ 9 World Premiere, I studied the vehicle and inquired with executives about its details. From my perspective, the e-SUV flows more like a sporty minivan. It depends on how you interpret the lines, silhouette, and interior features, such as the voluminous cabin with first and second-row Relaxation Seats, Swiveling Seats, and the slidable Universal Island 2.0 console. Specifically curated for families, the IONIQ 9’s Aerosthetic styling integrates with flush surfaces, a streamlined roof, vertical headlights and parametric pixel lamps, and various wheel sizes from 19s to 21s including the 21” Calligraphy set. The IONIQ 9 also represents as the longest wheelbase of any Hyundai so it has the size and space for passenger flexibility. Product planners also focused on aerodynamic efficiency and weight reduction, such as using aluminum body panels.
“IONIQ 9 offers the ultimate lounge-like environment,” said Simon Loasby, Senior Vice President and Head of Hyundai Design Center. “Its nature-inspired, lounge-like interior reflects our progressive approach of how we envision the technology, customer-centric design and tranquility, coming together seamlessly in the future of mobility.”
Potential buyers have 16 exterior color schemes to decide upon, such as Celadon Gray, Ionosphere Green Pearl, Celadon Gray Matte, Metallic, Sunset Brown Pearl, and Cosmic Blue Pearl. You can get creative inside with six unique two-tone options to go along with family-friendly infotainment and connection features (100w high-output USB-c ports) and intuitive knobs and controls. Safety is also a key concern when protecting your children. Thus, the IONIQ 9 is equipped with 10 airbags, including front center, 11 standard Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems, strengthened body structure, and restraints on all rows. A panoramic curved display is your central operating station and mixes with ambient interior lighting, a floating dashboard, and slim air vents.
Regarding EV performance, Hyundai says that every model trim and battery selection can drive more than 300 miles. Specifically, the long-range RWD model with 19” wheels will achieve an EPA-projected 335 miles before a charge is required. The e-SUV is available as both RWD and AWD, incorporates bi-directional charging, and has an adventurous terrain mode with snow, sand, and mud settings. Its E-GMP architecture and 110.3 kWh high-capacity lithium-ion battery deliver high-speed 800v charging and 420-horsepower and can re-energize from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes. Lastly, the vehicle can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
The world is advancing through innovation quicker than a blink of an eye, and rightfully so, we must all begin adapting. So the IONIQ 9 is essential to Hyundai’s strategy to expand its electrification platforms across the globe. Yes, gasoline-powered autos still rule the land, but EVs are inevitably the future.
