Hyundai’s electric future just got bigger. Literally.
The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 9 is set to become the flagship SUV of the Ioniq lineup, joining the popular Ioniq 5 and the recently unveiled Ioniq 6. But this time, Hyundai is going large — and electric. Designed to compete with other full-size electric SUVs like the Kia EV9, Rivian R1S, and even Tesla’s Model X, the Ioniq 9 promises bold styling, advanced tech, and real three-row practicality.
With production set to begin soon and global availability expected in 2025, the Ioniq 9 could become one of the most important EV launches of the year. Here is everything we know so far.
A Flagship for the Ioniq Brand
The Ioniq name is no longer just a model. It is now Hyundai’s all-electric sub-brand, with each number signifying the vehicle’s size and shape. The Ioniq 5 is a compact crossover, the Ioniq 6 is a sleek sedan, and the upcoming Ioniq 9 will sit at the top as a large, family-sized SUV with three rows of seating.
Originally rumored to be called the Ioniq 7, Hyundai has confirmed that the model will launch as the Ioniq 9 to better reflect its size and premium position. The vehicle is based on Hyundai’s E-GMP platform, the same one used by the EV6, EV9, and Genesis GV60. It supports fast charging, high-range battery packs, and flexible interior layouts.
Exterior Design: Concept to Reality
The Ioniq 9 draws its design inspiration from the Seven concept Hyundai revealed earlier. That concept featured sharp lines, futuristic lighting, a tall stance, and wide proportions. Based on spy photos and early prototypes, much of that DNA will carry over.
Expect a bold front fascia with a full-width lighting signature, pixel-style LED accents (now a signature of the Ioniq brand), and a closed-off grille typical of EVs. The shape will be boxy but modern, blending the presence of a full-size SUV with clean, aerodynamic lines for efficiency.
Large wheels, cladding around the wheel arches, and a floating roof design are likely. The side profile may also feature flush door handles and digital side mirrors in select markets, continuing Hyundai’s push toward aerodynamic, minimalist design.
Overall, the Ioniq 9 will look unlike any gas-powered SUV in Hyundai’s lineup. That is by design — this vehicle is meant to show off what Hyundai can do when it builds from the ground up for electric.
Size and Interior Space
As a three-row SUV, the Ioniq 9 is expected to be around 200 inches long, putting it in the same class as the Kia EV9, Rivian R1S, and gas-powered competitors like the Ford Explorer or Toyota Grand Highlander.
Seating for six or seven passengers will be standard, depending on whether you choose captain’s chairs or a bench for the second row. Thanks to the E-GMP platform’s flat floor and long wheelbase, interior space should be generous in all three rows, with excellent legroom and easy access to the rear seats.
Materials and design will follow the Ioniq 5 and 6’s clean, modern aesthetic — think recycled fabrics, eco-friendly upholstery, ambient lighting, and digital controls throughout. The dashboard will likely be dominated by dual widescreens for the instrument cluster and infotainment, paired with a minimalist control layout and generous storage spaces.
Expect features like a panoramic glass roof, premium Bose audio system, heated and ventilated seats in both rows, a powered third row, and possibly reclining rear seats depending on trim level.
Powertrain and Performance
Final powertrain details are still to be announced, but the Ioniq 9 is expected to follow the Kia EV9’s blueprint. That means at least two drivetrain options:
- A single-motor rear-wheel-drive version with strong range
- A dual-motor all-wheel-drive model with more power and performance
In the EV9, the dual-motor setup produces 379 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, with a zero to sixty time of around five seconds. The Ioniq 9 should be in the same ballpark, especially in its top trims.
Handling will prioritize comfort and stability over sharp cornering, but the low center of gravity from the battery pack and the smart motor tuning should make it feel confident on highways and mountain roads alike.
A performance variant under Hyundai’s N badge is also rumored but not yet confirmed.
Range and Charging
Hyundai’s E-GMP platform supports both 400- and 800-volt architectures, which means the Ioniq 9 will support ultra-fast DC charging — just like its smaller siblings.
In practical terms, that means you could go from 10 to 80 percent charge in about 20 to 25 minutes at a high-speed charging station. This fast-charging capability will be one of the Ioniq 9’s major advantages over slower-charging rivals.
Battery size is likely to range from 76 to 100 kilowatt-hours depending on configuration. Range will vary by model, but the base rear-wheel-drive version is expected to offer more than 300 miles per charge. All-wheel-drive and heavier trims may deliver closer to 270 to 290 miles.
Home charging will be supported via a standard Level 2 charger, which should fully recharge the vehicle overnight. Hyundai is expected to offer bundled home charging installation or credits through Electrify America partnerships.
Tech and Driver Assistance
Hyundai is loading its top-tier EVs with tech, and the Ioniq 9 will likely be the most advanced yet.
Features expected to be included:
- Dual 12.3-inch displays or a curved panoramic screen
- Augmented reality head-up display
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Full over-the-air update support
- Digital key with phone unlock
- Built-in navigation and Hyundai Bluelink connected services
- Multiple USB-C ports and wireless charging pads in all rows
- Premium sound system by Bose or Harman Kardon
- Rear entertainment screens optional in higher trims
In terms of safety, the Ioniq 9 will come with Hyundai SmartSense 2.0, including:
- Forward collision avoidance with junction assist
- Highway Driving Assist with semi-autonomous capability
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Parking assist with 360-degree cameras
- Automatic lane change and traffic jam assist in high trims
These features are designed not only to add peace of mind, but to make the Ioniq 9 feel like a modern, premium family vehicle that reduces stress behind the wheel.
How It Compares to Rivals
The Ioniq 9 will face strong competition from several well-known EVs, but Hyundai is positioning itself well.
Kia EV9
- Closest sibling
- Similar powertrain and platform
- Ioniq 9 may offer more elegant design and slightly better range
Rivian R1S
- More off-road focused
- Higher price tag
- More performance and towing but less efficiency
Tesla Model X
- Quicker, more tech-driven
- More expensive
- Build quality and after-sales support are still in question
Chevrolet Blazer EV (3-row trims)
- Less luxury focused
- Lower price
- Less range and slower charging
Volvo EX90
- Premium European design
- Slightly higher price
- Similar size and luxury appeal
The Ioniq 9’s biggest strength will be its value: delivering premium materials, advanced tech, and real electric performance in a package that costs thousands less than some of its competitors.
Price and Availability
Hyundai has not released official pricing yet, but estimates suggest a starting price around $56,000 for base rear-wheel-drive models. Fully loaded all-wheel-drive versions with every feature could reach $70,000 or more.
This pricing would make the Ioniq 9 a strong value in the large electric SUV segment, undercutting premium European brands and Tesla while offering better tech and charging than more mainstream rivals.
Hyundai says production will begin in late 2024, with first deliveries expected in early 2025 in North America, Europe, and South Korea. It will likely be built at Hyundai’s new EV facility in Georgia, which could help the Ioniq 9 qualify for federal EV tax credits in the United States.
Should You Wait for the Ioniq 9?
If you are shopping for a three-row electric SUV and want something that combines premium features, strong range, and real-world practicality, the Ioniq 9 is absolutely worth waiting for.
It will not be the quickest or most exclusive electric SUV, but it will likely be one of the most well-rounded and affordable. It takes the strengths of the Ioniq 5 — style, tech, comfort, and efficiency — and scales them up for growing families and long trips.
Hyundai has built a strong reputation for its EVs, and the Ioniq 9 will push that even further.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 9 is shaping up to be a major contender in the growing electric SUV market. It combines Hyundai’s advanced battery technology with bold styling, real interior space, and a deep list of features.
It is modern, capable, and family-ready — but also clean, quiet, and fun to drive. Whether you are coming from a gas-powered SUV or stepping into your first EV, the Ioniq 9 will likely offer everything you need and more.
This is the big electric SUV many buyers have been waiting for — and it just might be the smartest one of the year.
