Hyundai is making waves in the car market. Just ten years ago, they had the Santa Fe as their most expensive model, costing around £33,000. Now, theNew Hyundai Ioniq 9 is set to start at about £63,000, and a top model may cost around £75,000. Is this new price too high, or is it worth every penny? I traveled to South Korea to find out as I tested the Ioniq 9 for over 500 miles in cold weather.
Size and Design
The Ioniq 9 is Hyundai’s biggest car yet. It’s not as large as a BMW X7 or a Land Rover Defender 130, but it’s longer than a BMW X5 and similar in size to the Kia EV9. Hyundai and Kia share many parts, so this connection is no surprise.
Although they share some features, the Ioniq 9 has its unique look. It has a curvy design, making it different from the boxy EV9. One of its standout features is its aerodynamic shape, which helps it cut through the air more easily. The entry-level model can have a drag coefficient of just 0.259, which is impressive for a large SUV.
Performance and Range
The Ioniq 9 has a powerful battery with a capacity of around 106 kWh. The rear-wheel-drive version can go up to 385 miles on a single charge, which is better than the Kia EV9 and even the Volvo EX90. However, keep in mind that real-world ranges can be lower, especially in cold weather.
On my trip, I drove about 100 km (60 miles) and still had plenty of range left. The Ioniq 9 is easy to drive, and with its laminated windows, it keeps wind noise to a minimum. However, the ride can feel a bit firmer than some luxury SUVs due to the lack of air suspension, which is not available for this model.
Charging Capabilities
Charging is a key feature of the Ioniq 9. Hyundai claims it can charge from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes with a 350 kW charger. However, it actually charges at a maximum of 250 kW. Charging at home using a standard 7 kW charger will take around 17 hours, which is long but expected for a large vehicle.
For storage, the Ioniq 9 offers a decent amount of space. The front trunk can hold charging cables and more, while the main boot provides over 1,300 liters of storage. The car also features three rows of seats, making it perfect for families. The third row is spacious enough for taller adults, which is a big plus.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the Ioniq 9 is designed for comfort. The front seats are premium relaxation seats that can be adjusted for comfort during long drives. The driver’s area is spacious, with great visibility and a user-friendly infotainment system. Physical buttons for air conditioning are a welcome feature, making it easy to adjust settings while driving.
The interior quality is better than previous Hyundai models, with a mix of soft-touch materials and some harder plastics. While it may not be the most luxurious SUV available, it feels well-made and stylish.
Driving Experience
On twisty roads, the Ioniq 9 handles like a heavy SUV. The steering is not very quick, and you can feel the body roll in tight corners. The car is not meant to be a sports vehicle, and it focuses more on being a family-friendly ride. The all-wheel-drive version provides good power, with the performance model boasting nearly 430 horsepower.
Final Thoughts
After driving the Ioniq 9, it’s clear it has a lot to offer. With its spacious interior, impressive range, and innovative features, it stands out in the electric SUV market. The price may seem high, but considering the features and performance, it could be worth it for those looking for a large electric family vehicle.
FAQs about the Hyundai Ioniq 9
What is the expected price of the Hyundai Ioniq 9?
The starting price is expected to be around £63,000, with top models costing about £75,000.
What is the range of the Ioniq 9?
The Ioniq 9 can travel up to 385 miles on a single charge for the rear-wheel-drive version.
How long does it take to charge the Ioniq 9?
Using a 350 kW charger, it can charge from 10% to 80% in about 24 minutes, though it charges at a maximum of 250 kW.
How many seats does the Ioniq 9 have?
The Ioniq 9 comes with three rows of seats, allowing it to comfortably seat up to seven passengers.
Is the Ioniq 9 suitable for families?
Yes, it offers a spacious interior, plenty of cargo space, and comfortable seating, making it ideal for families.