The minivan might be dead, but families still need space. The new Hyundai IONIQ 9 steps up as the brand’s first three-row electric SUV, and it’s clearly designed by people who actually understand what families need from their vehicles.
What Makes the IONIQ 9 Different
Built on Hyundai’s E-GMP platform, the IONIQ 9 features bold and futuristic exterior styling with a lounge-like interior atmosphere. But unlike concept cars that prioritize looks over livability, this one actually delivers on the practical stuff that matters.
The size alone tells the story. At 199.2 inches long with a 123.2-inch wheelbase, it’s properly big without being obnoxious. Think Range Rover size, but with the efficiency of an electric drivetrain.
Real Range for Real Life
Here’s where the IONIQ 9 gets serious about family duty. The base single-motor model is estimated to get 335 miles per charge, and Hyundai says every version will have over 300 miles of range. That’s “drive to grandma’s house without stopping to charge” territory for most families.
When you do need to charge, it’ll recharge from 10 to 80% in just 24 minutes on a 350-kilowatt DC fast charger. Long enough for everyone to use the restroom and grab snacks, short enough that you won’t be planning your life around charging stops.
Power Options That Actually Matter
The IONIQ 9 comes in three flavors, and they’re all plenty powerful for family hauling:
| Model | Power Output | Configuration |
|---|---|---|
| Long Range RWD | 215 hp, 258 lb-ft | Single rear motor |
| Long Range AWD | 310 hp, 445 lb-ft | Dual motor |
| Performance AWD | 430 hp, 515 lb-ft | Dual motor performance |
The quickest IONIQ 9 gets to 60 miles per hour in 4.9 seconds – fast enough to make merging onto highways with a full load feel effortless rather than terrifying.
Interior Space That Works
The IONIQ 9’s 42.8 inches of second-row legroom and 32.0 inches in the third row are properly generous. More importantly, the seats up front and the second-row captain’s chairs are approved for linebackers.
The party trick? Second-row captain’s chairs that swivel so you can face passengers in the third row (when parked). It’s the kind of feature that seems gimmicky until you’re on a long road trip and the kids can actually talk to each other without yelling.
Tech Features That Don’t Overwhelm
The IONIQ 9 features Hyundai AI Assistant, an AI-enabled voice recognition system similar to a home virtual assistant. But the real practical win is the charging capability – two of the six USB-C sockets can charge at 100 watts directly from the drive battery, meaning laptops can charge without adapters.
Safety Without the Nagging
Hyundai loads the IONIQ 9 with safety tech, but based on early reviews, the over-speed warning can be silenced with a long press of the mute button. It’s still got all the modern safety systems families expect, just without the constant pestering that makes you want to turn everything off.
Pricing Reality Check
The IONIQ 9 is priced from $60,555 to $78,090 in the US market. That positions it as a premium family hauler, but the mechanically similar Kia EV9 is estimated to cost between $850 and $950 per year to charge, compared to $2,200-$3,600 annually for gas-powered alternatives.
The math gets interesting when you factor in Hyundai’s offer of either a free home charger or $400 in public charging credits with purchase, plus reduced maintenance needs.
What It Can’t Do
Be honest about limitations. The IONIQ 9 has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. If you regularly tow heavy boats or large trailers, this isn’t your vehicle. For most family hauling – bikes, small trailers, camping gear – it’s perfectly adequate.
The IONIQ 9 feels like Hyundai actually listened to families who want an electric SUV but refuse to compromise on space, range, or practicality. It’s not trying to be the cheapest or the fastest – it’s trying to be the most sensible choice for families ready to go electric.
Launch timing puts it in showrooms for early 2025, giving potential buyers time to see real-world reviews and charging infrastructure to continue expanding.
Quick FAQs
Q: How long does it really take to charge?
A: 24 minutes from 10-80% on fast chargers, about 2 days on a regular wall outlet.
Q: Will seven adults actually fit comfortably?
A: Six adults definitely, seven if the third row passengers aren’t too tall.
Q: What’s the real-world range in winter?
A: Hyundai claims improved cold-weather performance, but expect 250-280 miles in harsh conditions.
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