With sales of 4,177 units this year (until September 2025), the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 has had a quiet start in the U.S. market. The three-row flagship completes Hyundai’s electric trilogy, targeting families seeking premium space and long-distance capability in a full-size SUV format.
We got up close with the European-spec Ioniq 9 Vertex Calligraphy on display at Auto Zurich 2025 finished in the Sunset Brown exterior shade. Comparing it to the U.S.-spec model, we found that it has a few unique features.
Design
The Ioniq 9 features a clean exterior design, which Hyundai terms ‘Aerosthetic.’ At 5,060 mm (199.2 in) long and 1,980 mm (78.0 in) wide, it is Hyundai’s biggest model, with a 3,130 mm (123.2 in) wheelbase.
Parametric Pixel lighting, a dual-motion active air flap system, and a low 0.259 drag coefficient contribute to its unique appearance and efficiency. The rear design integrates the lighting in an arch-like structure, maintaining a fluid silhouette from roof to tail. The Ioniq 9 is also available with digital side mirrors in some global markets.
Wheel choices range from 19 to 21 inches, and buyers in the global market can select from 16 paint finishes, including Celadon Gray Matte, Ionosphere Green Pearl, and Cosmic Blue Pearl.
Interior
The Ioniq 9’s cabin has seating for six or seven. A flat floor and the Panoramic Sunroof give it a lounge-like feel. Hyundai’s Relaxation Seats in the first and second rows can fully recline and include a Dynamic Touch Massage function.
Sustainability is a big part of the interior, featuring recycled PET fabric, bio-based leather alternatives, and paint derived from recycled tire waste. Cargo volume reaches 1,323 liters (46.7 cu.ft) with the third row folded, and front trunk capacity is up to 88 liters (3.1 cu.ft) for RWD models.
The interior tech suite includes a panoramic curved display with dual 12-inch screens, slim vents, and ambient lighting. A sliding “Universal Island 2.0” center console offers 18 liters (0.64 cu.ft) of combined storage and can move 190 mm (7.5 in) for easier second-row access.
Few Unique Features
In Europe, Hyundai has recently introduced AI-driven convenience in the Ioniq 9, including intelligent voice recognition, real-time route planning, and a Features-on-Demand (FoD) service for downloadable upgrades.
These include display themes, lighting animations, and a Virtual Gear Shift system that simulates engine revs and gear changes. Owners can access the digital upgrades through the Bluelink Store in the Bluelink app. Lighting patterns can also be customized, with additional animated sequences available for purchase, for unique entry and exit sequences.
A UV-C sterilizer tray is another feature unavailable in the U.S., where drivers can disinfect their devices. Lastly, the European-spec also offers three upholstery options which aren’t available in America: Dark Teal and Dove Gray, Mud Gray and Creamy Beige, and Dark Wine and Dove Gray (shown in this article).
Specifications
Built on Hyundai’s E-GMP architecture, the Ioniq 9 offers three configurations: Long-Range RWD with a 160 kW (215 hp) motor, Long-Range AWD adding a 70 kW (94 hp) front motor, and a Performance AWD variant using twin 160 kW (215 hp) motors for a combined 320 kW (429 hp). Torque peaks at 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) per motor.
The top Performance AWD version accelerates from 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds and reaches 124 mph. A 110.3 kWh NCM lithium-ion battery delivers up to 620 km (385 miles) WLTP or 335 miles EPA range with 19-inch wheels. Using a 350 kW charger, the pack charges from 10 to 80 percent in 24 minutes.
The Ioniq 9 supports both 400V and 800V multi-charging architecture, enabling 10-80% top-ups in just 24 minutes on a 350 kW charger. Hyundai’s Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) system allows users to power external devices using the vehicle’s battery.
Pricing
The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 begins at USD 58,955 for the S RWD variant, and tops out at USD 76,490 for the Performance Calligraphy Design AWD version (MSRP) in the U.S. In Switzerland, the SUV begins at CHF 76,900 (about USD 96,900).
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
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