Hyundai just dropped something big – literally. The Ioniq 9 is their largest vehicle ever, and it’s heading to Australian driveways in mid-2025. If you’ve been eyeing electric SUVs but need something that can actually fit your entire family (plus their sports gear), this might be exactly what you’ve been waiting for.
What Makes the Ioniq 9 Special?
Think of the Ioniq 9 as Hyundai’s answer to families who want to go electric without compromising on space. With seating for six or seven people, this isn’t just another compact crossover trying to squeeze in an extra row. It’s a proper full-size SUV that happens to run on electricity instead of petrol.
The timing feels right too. More Australian families are considering electric vehicles, but many have been put off by the limited space in smaller EVs. The Ioniq 9 bridges that gap nicely.
Power and Performance That Actually Matters
Three Ways to Get Moving
Hyundai isn’t just offering one version and calling it a day. They’re giving you three distinct options:
The entry-level Long-Range RWD focuses on efficiency, delivering that impressive 620km range figure. For most families, this rear-wheel-drive setup will be plenty. It’s not the fastest off the line, but it gets the job done while maximizing your driving range.
Step up to the Long-Range AWD, and you get all-wheel traction for those wet winter mornings or weekend adventures. The Performance AWD variant cranks things up further, shaving nearly four seconds off the 0-100km/h time compared to the base model.
Charging That Won’t Ruin Your Road Trip
Here’s where things get interesting for long-distance travel. That 110.3kWh battery can charge from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes using a 350kW fast charger. While Australia’s charging network is still growing, this capability means you won’t be stuck waiting around for hours during family road trips.
Ioniq 9 Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 110.3kWh lithium-ion |
| Range (WLTP) | Up to 620km |
| Seating | 6 or 7 passengers |
| Towing Capacity | 2,500kg (braked) |
| Boot Space | 620L (all seats up), 1,323L (third row down) |
| Charging Speed | 10-80% in 24 minutes (350kW charger) |
| Length | 5,060mm |
| Wheelbase | 3,130mm |
Living With the Ioniq 9
Tech That Actually Helps
The interior focuses on practical technology rather than gimmicks. Those 100W USB-C ports throughout all three rows mean everyone can charge their devices properly – even power-hungry laptops. The vehicle-to-load capability lets you run camping equipment or power tools directly from the car’s battery.
The AI assistant handles voice commands for basic functions, while the UV-C sterilizer takes care of sanitizing phones and masks. It’s the kind of thoughtful tech that busy families will actually use.
Space Where It Counts
Even with all seven seats in use, you still get 620 liters of boot space – enough for a week’s groceries or sports equipment. Fold down that third row, and you’re looking at over 1,300 liters. There’s even extra storage under the bonnet for charging cables and smaller items.
The Towing Game Changer
That 2,500kg towing capacity opens up possibilities that most electric vehicles simply can’t match. Whether it’s a boat, caravan, or large trailer, the Ioniq 9 can handle it. The trailer mode automatically adjusts performance and range calculations based on what you’re pulling, so you won’t get nasty surprises on longer trips.
What’s It Going to Cost?
Hyundai hasn’t revealed Australian pricing yet, but expect it to compete with the Kia EV9, which currently sits between $91,000 and $121,000. Yes, that’s premium SUV money, but you’re getting premium SUV space and capability with electric running costs.
The value proposition becomes clearer when you factor in reduced fuel costs, lower maintenance requirements, and potential government incentives for electric vehicles.
The Ioniq 9 represents Hyundai’s serious commitment to electric family transport. It’s not trying to be the sportiest or the most luxurious – it’s aiming to be the most practical large electric SUV for Australian families.
With its combination of real-world range, fast charging, genuine seven-seat capability, and proper towing capacity, the Ioniq 9 could be the electric SUV that finally convinces larger families to make the switch from petrol.
Quick Questions Answered
Q. When can I buy one in Australia?
A. The Ioniq 9 arrives in Australia during the second quarter of 2025 (April to June).
Q. How far can it really go on a charge?
A. Up to 620km on the WLTP cycle with the Long-Range RWD model and standard 19-inch wheels.
Q. Can it tow my caravan?
A. Yes, it can tow up to 2,500kg when properly equipped, with smart trailer detection and range adjustment.
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