The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 was unveiled on Wednesday, a long-awaited EV that first appeared in concept form as the Hyundai Seven in 2021. It’s a 3-row crossover with no direct rivals from GM, the closest being the 2026 Cadillac Vistiq.
Like the Kia EV9, the Hyundai Ioniq 9 is available with a single-motor, RWD layout or a dual-motor, AWD setup. It hasn’t broken out range estimates for each configuration, but it will get up to 335 miles of range, and we’re guessing that’s for the single-motor models. The single-motor Ioniq 9 will make 215 horsepower, and the dual-motor will produce 303 horsepower, and a Performace trim will be good for 442 horsepower.
The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 has a unique aesthetic that only somewhat resembles its little brother, the Hyundai Ioniq 5. As is typical for Hyundai in recent years, it doesn’t follow a uniform design language and doesn’t look quite like any other Hyundai. Hyundai calls it an “Aerosthetic” (aerodynamic aesthetic?) design. Its dimensions are similar to the Chevy Traverse.
The interior is a little more familiar. It uses a clean and simple design with straight lines throughout and a flat floor that maximizes interior space. We expect its interior dimensions to be on par with the Kia EV9 and in line with the Traverse. The cabin has a curved display that houses a 12-inch digital gauge cluster and a 12-inch infotainment screen, Relaxation Seats that work like recliners for while the car is charging, a slideable Universal Island 2.0 console, and a swiveling seat option that probably won’t be available in the U.S.
The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 will be used to test Hyundai’s new Features on Demand (FoD) service, which “is a unique offering that allows Ioniq 9 customers to further personalize their vehicle with digital upgrades purchased from the online store,” according to Hyundai. “The FoD products offer dynamic lighting patterns when opening the door, dynamic escort light when closing the door, and content streaming options including Amazon Music and Soundcloud.” In other words, in-car subscriptions.
Pricing is forthcoming for the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9. If it is priced similarly to the Kia EV9, it should start at mid-$50k and go up to mid-$70k. For reference, the Cadillac Vistiq starts at $78,790.
Comments
Atrociously ugly.
The roofline is arched and the back window is tall. It looks like a throwback to the 1990s. Perhaps they’re banking on some positive nostalgia (the Ioniq 5 absolutely captured a 1980s look), but I’m not so sure about this one.
I like the design.
When all you can nitpick on this vehicle is the tiny Frunk then they have a hit on their hands.
They should sell these very well.
They have the interior volume, the range, exterior design, the modern interior, the tech features, the native NACS port, the correct pricing, and a great charging speed.
Well done!!!
That is one weird looking karenmobile!
The Hyundai/ Kias are the new Chevys/ Fords. People are flocking to them, but they are so ugly, especially the lighting.