Hyundai unveils the new Ioniq 9

The Ioniq sub-brand of futuristic, next-generation electric vehicles is set to welcome a new addition with the upcoming Hyundai Ioniq 9. This will be the third model in the Ioniq-numbered series, following the retro-inspired Ioniq 5 SUV and the streamliner Ioniq 6 sedan.

Built on the E-GMP platform shared with its Ioniq siblings, the 3-row Ioniq 9 SUV measures 5,060 mm in length, 1,980 mm in width, and 1,790 mm in height. Compared to the Kia EV9, the Ioniq 9 is 45mm longer but 10mm shorter. The distinction is immediately noticeable, thanks to its "boat-tail" design, which tapers toward the rear while featuring sculpted shoulders that accentuate the lines beyond the C-pillar. The 3,130mm wheelbase is the longest of any Hyundai model to date.

Simon Loasby, Senior Vice President, Head of Hyundai Design Center sharing on the design of the Ioniq 9

Hyundai describes the Ioniq 9's design as an "aerosthetic silhouette", incorporating its signature "Parametric Pixels" to pay homage to the Ioniq 5 and 6 while optimising aerodynamics for improved efficiency. With digital side mirrors, the Ioniq 9 achieves a drag coefficient as low as 0.259 Cd, notably lower than the Kia EV9's 0.28 Cd. This aerodynamic efficiency is further enhanced by the removal of the shark fin antenna, with its functions redistributed across the windshield cover, instrument panel, and tailgate glass.

The Ioniq 9 is able to achieve a drag coefficient as low as 0.259Cd

The Ioniq 9's profile is characterised by smooth, flowing curves, resembling the airflow over an airplane wing. The design gently ascends from the A-pillar to the roof, swells at the midpoint, and subtly narrows toward the rear. The boot features a distinctive curved shape with bulges on the sides and the iconic Ioniq pixel accents lining the top of the tailgate.

The signature pixel lights at the front of the car is a hallmark of the Ioniq lineup

At the front, the Ioniq 9 showcases its signature pixel lights, a hallmark of the Ioniq lineup. However, the single-line DRL design bears a closer resemblance to the Kona Electric, while the head light cluster incorporates elements reminiscent of the Staria.

Step inside and you'll be greeted with a feeling of natural, zen-like ambience with its nature-inspired colour palette, including a stone-textured pattern on the dashboard. The steering wheel on the Santa Fe makes a return, with the central four dots lighting up, like in the Ioniq 6. Up front you'll face dual 12-inch displays for the instruments and infotainment screen, curved to the driver's focus. Digital mirrors will be available in select markets.

The first two rows in the Ioniq 9 get fully-reclining Relaxation Seats

Spaciousness is further enhanced by the panoramic sunroof and a second generation of the 'Universal Island' originally introduced in the Ioniq 5. The  5.6-litre storage space can now slide up to 190mm between the front and middle row. 

The six-seater configuration provides front and second-row passengers with "Relaxation seats" that include Hyundai's debut pressure and vibration massage system, along with full reclining options for ultimate comfort. The second-row seats can swivel to face various directions: toward the door for easier entry and child seat installation or backward for a more social arrangement. Safety is a priority, with seatbelt pre-tensioners and load limiters ensuring enhanced protection for passengers across all three rows.

The second row seats can be swiveled to face any direction, offering added utility for passengers in the cabin

The Ioniq 9 will be offered in three powertrain configurations: Long-range RWD, Long-range AWD, and Performance AWD, all equipped with a standard 110.3kWh battery. This high-capacity battery offers a notable advantage over the Kia EV9's 99.8kWh battery. In the local market, the Ioniq 9's 110.3kWh capacity outclasses nearly all other EVs, save for a few, such as the Lotus Eletre's 112kWh, the ZEEKR 009's 116kWh, and Mercedes-Benz EQS' 118kWh. According to Hyundai, the Ioniq 9 has a projected WLTP range of 620km on the Long-range RWD variant when fitted with 19-inch wheels.

With a capacity of 110.3kWh, the Ioniq 9 will boast one of the largest batteries in the industry

The Ioniq 9 will debut in Korea and the United States in early 2025, with subsequent launches planned for Europe and other markets. No official release date for Singapore has been announced at the time of writing.