Hyundai Unveils the Astounding IONIQ 9 Electric SUV

On November 11, 2024, Hyundai unveiled the astounding IONIQ 9, its latest very impressive addition to the award-winning IONIQ lineup, at the iconic Goldstein House in Los Angeles, California. This three-row all-electric SUV represents a blend of cutting-edge design and advanced EV technology, offering an expansive interior tailored for up to seven occupants. The choice of venue, celebrated for its mid-century modern architecture, underscores Hyundai’s vision of innovation and its commitment to electrification as the company works toward its goal of launching 23 EV models by 2030.

The innovative IONIQ 9 will go on sale in Korea and the United States in the first half of 2025, with subsequent rollout planned for Europe and other markets some time later.

The IONIQ 9 builds on the success of its predecessors, the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6, which both earned triple honors at the World Car of the Year Awards. Positioned as a premium choice for families and individuals, the IONIQ 9 is designed to meet the evolving needs of modern consumers. It balances hyper-connectivity with a focus on space, privacy, and relaxation, embodying Hyundai’s philosophy of creating vehicles that foster a sense of togetherness while addressing personal needs.

During the world premiere, Hyundai’s President and Global COO, José Muñoz, delivered a keynote speech emphasizing the IONIQ lineup’s role in redefining sustainable mobility. The event featured a terrace talk session, exploring the design and development of the IONIQ 9, while an exhibition zone offered attendees a closer look at the SUV’s journey from concept to reality.

Jaehoon Chang, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company, said: “IONIQ 9 embodies Hyundai Motor’s unwavering commitment and confidence in electrification. Based on Hyundai Motor Group’s acclaimed Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), IONIQ 9 offers outstanding interior space, providing customers with unique value while solidifying our leadership in the global EV market.”

The IONIQ 9’s Serene, spacious interior provides an unparalleled EV experience

The IONIQ 9 sets a new benchmark for spaciousness and comfort in the electric SUV segment, delivering a premium interior designed to cater to the needs of all occupants. Its thoughtful layout features generous second- and third-row dimensions, ensuring ample space for everyone on board. The cabin’s design, characterized by soothing elliptical elements and soft, calming tones, creates a lounge-like atmosphere that feels serene and inviting. This tranquil environment is further enhanced by natural light streaming through the Panoramic Sunroof, offering an airy, open feel.

With a flat floor architecture, the IONIQ 9 accommodates configurations for six or seven occupants, making it versatile for families and groups. The first and second-row Relaxation Seats are a standout feature, capable of fully reclining and equipped with leg rests to deliver unparalleled comfort. Depending on the configuration, up to four passengers can recline simultaneously, making it ideal for recharging—both the vehicle and its occupants—during charging stops. For added convenience, the interior boasts impressive dimensions, including 1,899 mm of headroom and 2,050 mm of legroom across the second and third rows combined.

Hyundai’s attention to passenger well-being is evident in the introduction of the Dynamic Body Care system within the Relaxation Seats. This innovative feature includes a Dynamic Touch Massage function that combines pressure and vibration to stimulate circulation, reducing fatigue during long drives and ensuring a more rejuvenating travel experience.

Another innovative addition is the second-row Swiveling Seats, which allow passengers to rotate their seats to face those in the third row. This feature transforms the interior into a social space when the vehicle is stationary.

The IONIQ 9 takes practicality and innovation to the next level with its Universal Island 2.0 console, a slidable feature designed to maximize storage and accessibility. This console enables a walk-through front-row seating arrangement, improving convenience for occupants. Bidirectional armrests allow the console to be accessed from both the front and rear, ensuring usability even for passengers in the second row. With the ability to slide up to 190 mm, the Universal Island 2.0 offers flexibility, while its spacious storage options include a 5.6-liter upper tray and a 12.6-liter lower sliding tray.

For cargo needs, the IONIQ 9 provides exceptional versatility. The trunk offers a generous 1,323 liters of space with the third-row seats folded flat, and up to 620 liters when all three rows are in use. The front trunk, or “frunk,” adds extra storage, with a capacity of up to 88 liters for rear-wheel-drive (RWD) models and 52 liters for all-wheel-drive (AWD) variants.

The IONIQ 9 also integrates sustainability into its design by using eco-conscious materials throughout the interior. These include Eco Process Leather, Recycled PET Fabric, Wool Fabric, and Bio TPO/PU Skin, alongside bio-based materials like Bio PET/Suede Fabric and Bio Paint. Additionally, Hyundai’s innovative use of paint made from recycled tire waste underscores its commitment to reducing environmental impact.

The interior is further refined by cutting-edge design elements such as a panoramic curved display, a floating dashboard, slim air vents, and customizable ambient lighting. Together, these features create a futuristic and inviting cabin atmosphere, seamlessly blending form, function, and sustainability to meet the demands of modern electric vehicle owners.

IONIQ 9’s sleek ‘Aerosthetic’ exterior

The IONIQ 9 embodies Hyundai’s innovative design philosophy with its sleek ‘Aerosthetic’ exterior, merging advanced aerodynamics and futuristic styling. Its front-end design features Parametric Pixels, seamlessly integrated into the LED lighting units and lower fascia, creating a distinctive and sophisticated look that aligns with the IONIQ family’s identity.

The SUV’s streamlined silhouette is defined by a curved roofline and a remarkable drag coefficient of 0.259 when equipped with digital side mirrors. This aerodynamic efficiency is further enhanced by a dual-motion active air flap system, introduced for the first time, along with a 3D-shaped underbody cover, aerodynamic wheels, and hidden antennas that optimize airflow and minimize resistance.

Standing on Hyundai’s longest-ever wheelbase of 3,130 mm, the IONIQ 9 offers grand proportions and an expansive cabin. The design emphasizes pure volume, with imposing body and fender shapes complemented by flowing rear wheel arch character lines. At the rear, the boat tail-inspired design features pixel-fused lighting for a sleek finish that enhances aerodynamics. The streamlined roofline and rising lower body lines add to the dynamic and balanced aesthetic.

A standout feature of the IONIQ 9 is the elimination of a visible roof antenna. Its functions are distributed across the windshield cover, instrument panel, and tailgate glass, contributing to the SUV’s minimalistic and futuristic design. The Parametric Pixel lighting signature continues with cube-like projection headlights and an intelligent front-lighting system (IFS) for improved visibility and reduced glare for oncoming drivers. The rear is equipped with a full LED combination lamp, while indirect lighting on the door handles ensures better nighttime visibility.

The confident stance of the IONIQ 9 is underscored by a variety of wheel options, including standard 19-inch wheels, larger 20-inch and 21-inch variants, and the premium 21-inch Calligraphy design. Buyers can personalize their IONIQ 9 with a selection of 16 exterior colors, including bold new shades like Celadon Gray Matte, Ionosphere Green Pearl, and Cosmic Blue Pearl.

Inside, the IONIQ 9 complements its sophisticated exterior with a range of interior trim options, including Obsidian Black and six two-tone combinations. These curated choices, paired with the SUV’s advanced features and luxurious materials, make the IONIQ 9 a compelling fusion of style, innovation, and sustainability.

Enhanced power electronics enable advanced capabilities

The IONIQ 9 is built on Hyundai Motor’s state-of-the-art E-GMP (Electric-Global Modular Platform), engineered to optimize performance, efficiency, and passenger comfort. The platform features an enhanced power electric (PE) system, including an optimized gear ratio for superior hill-climbing capability and a two-stage inverter for improved overall efficiency. This integration delivers both power and refinement while extending the EV’s driving range.

Acoustic refinement has been a focus for the IONIQ 9, with a fully encapsulated PE system designed to reduce motor noise. Additional features, such as improved acoustic laminated glass, triple-sealing in key areas, and reinforced plates in the A-pillar, significantly reduce noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH), ensuring a serene cabin environment even at high speeds.

The platform’s high-capacity, high-voltage battery provides an impressive range while enabling a flat floor layout that enhances both passenger comfort and cargo space. Safety has also been prioritized, with a robust body structure designed for optimal energy absorption and crash durability, offering improved protection for occupants.

In a first for Hyundai, the IONIQ 9 incorporates aluminum fenders and quarter panels, contributing to a lighter vehicle body for increased efficiency and agility. The newly introduced dual-motion active air flap (AAF) system not only enhances aerodynamic performance by improving air sealing but also gives the SUV a sleek, flush-panel exterior for a premium look.

Further innovations include a rolling-type pin-lift door hinge, which ensures a precise fit and finish, and a newly developed electric hood latch for the front trunk. This system not only improves accessibility but also elevates the overall build quality and design sophistication, aligning with the IONIQ 9’s status as a benchmark in Hyundai’s electrification journey.

Large-capacity NCM lithium-ion battery delivers impressive range and performance

The IONIQ 9’s advanced power electric (PE) system integrates a 110.3 kWh NCM lithium-ion battery mounted within the floor, optimizing stability and interior space. This configuration allows the Long-Range RWD model with 19-inch wheels to achieve an impressive WLTP-estimated range of 620 km, with a targeted energy consumption of 194 Wh/km. Contributing to this efficiency are the vehicle’s low drag coefficient, innovative platform, and advanced battery technologies.

Charging is streamlined with the capability to replenish the battery from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes using a 350 kW ultra-fast charger. Hyundai’s signature vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology and 400V/800V multi-charging capability add to the convenience, lowering barriers to EV adoption.

The powertrain options are tailored to suit a range of preferences and driving needs. The Long-Range RWD model is powered by a 160 kW rear motor, while the Long-Range AWD variant features an additional 70 kW front motor for enhanced traction. For those seeking heightened capability, the Performance AWD model offers a dual 160 kW motor configuration.

Performance metrics underline the versatility of the IONIQ 9. The Performance AWD model accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds and achieves mid-range acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h in 3.4 seconds, making it ideal for overtaking. The Long-Range AWD variant takes 6.7 seconds to reach 100 km/h and 4.8 seconds for mid-range acceleration, while the Long-Range RWD version emphasizes efficiency, completing the 0 to 100 km/h sprint in 9.4 seconds and 80 to 120 km/h in 6.8 seconds. This blend of power and practicality ensures the IONIQ 9 meets the diverse demands of modern EV drivers.

Practical, future-oriented technologies

Hyundai Motor has incorporated a range of innovative advancements into the IONIQ 9 to address key concerns of EV customers, focusing on enhancing convenience, connectivity, and efficiency. Central to these upgrades is a refined EV Route Planner, improved battery performance, an enhanced torque control display, and an energy report feature that provides drivers with detailed insights into their vehicle’s efficiency. To simplify monitoring, the IONIQ 9 displays its charge status using green dots on the steering wheel, while the Hyundai AI Assistant, a voice-activated system akin to a home virtual assistant, streamlines interactions with intuitive dotted indicators.

A standout feature is Hyundai’s Features on Demand (FoD) service, allowing owners to personalize their IONIQ 9 with digital upgrades available in an online store. Options include dynamic lighting patterns, door-opening and escort lights, and streaming content from platforms like Amazon Music and Soundcloud. The Display Theme feature lets users customize the screen interface, further personalizing the driving experience.

Bluelink® Connected Car Services enhance connectivity with real-time road surface evaluations, driving insights, and a Driver Safety Index that adapts based on driving behavior. Over-the-air (OTA) updates keep the vehicle’s software current, while the Digital Key function, enabled through NFC communication, allows for seamless access. A wireless charger with a rubberized pad ensures stable device placement, and a cooling fan prevents overheating during charging.

Passengers across all three rows benefit from 100W high-output USB-C ports, powered directly by the high-voltage battery for uninterrupted use. This complements Hyundai’s innovative Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, which extends to the cargo area, allowing users to power and charge devices or appliances via a standard outlet.

The IONIQ 9’s climate control system is tailored for versatile use, including rear-independent functionality ideal for activities like car camping. This system enables precise control of the front and rear zones, reducing energy consumption and maximizing comfort. Paired with the Panoramic Sunroof, slim roof air vents distribute air efficiently throughout the cabin.

Prioritizing health and hygiene, the IONIQ 9 features a UV-C sterilizer with a multi-tray design, capable of disinfecting small items such as phones, wallets, and masks. This addition reflects Hyundai’s commitment to integrating practical and thoughtful solutions into its vehicles, ensuring the IONIQ 9 is equipped to meet the modern driver’s diverse needs.

The IONIQ 9’s infotainment system includes a 12-inch cluster and a 12-inch integrated monitor as part of the display. The standard in-car audio features an eight-speaker sound system, with the option of a premium BOSE 14-speaker stereo, supporting 5.1-channel surround sound, wireless updates and advanced BOSE features. It also incorporates the innovative e-Active Sound Design (e-ASD), which outputs the virtual driving sound of an EV using the vehicle’s audio system.

Standard advanced safety features

The IONIQ 9 prioritizes safety with its reinforced body structure designed to distribute collision energy effectively and maintain integrity even in severe incidents, ensuring maximum battery and passenger protection. For third-row passengers, standard seat belt pre-tensioners and load limiters prevent head impacts with the second-row seats during a collision, reducing the risk of head and neck injuries. The vehicle is also equipped with 10 strategically placed airbags to provide comprehensive protection for all occupants.

Hyundai has integrated its latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) into the IONIQ 9, enhancing both safety and convenience. These state-of-the-art systems work to prevent accidents and reduce the burden of driving. Key features include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2 (FCA) for mitigating frontal impacts, Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) to ensure proper lane positioning, and Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA) for safer lane changes.

Additional safety technologies such as Safe Exit Warning (SEW) and Safe Exit Assist (SEA) help prevent accidents when passengers are exiting the vehicle, while Rear Occupant Alert ensures no passengers are left behind. Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA) adapts to posted speed limits, and Driver Attention Warning (DAW) monitors driver alertness. For enhanced visibility, the Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM) and High Beam Assist (HBA) are included. Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA) and Parking Distance Warning (PDW) further aid in avoiding obstacles and ensuring safe maneuvering.

Driver-centric technologies enhance vehicle performance and efficiency

The IONIQ 9 features a column-type shift-by-wire system integrated with the ignition button, offering intuitive operation and maximizing space. The system provides haptic feedback when the vehicle is in reverse, enhancing user interaction and responsiveness. Additionally, the braking system has been optimized for greater stopping power and efficiency.

The Chassis Domain Control Unit plays a key role in enhancing driving dynamics with features like dynamic torque vectoring, which improves handling, and lateral wind stability control, ensuring high-speed stability. For off-road conditions, the IONIQ 9 is equipped with a Terrain Traction Control System and an Auto Terrain Mode that uses AI to analyze road surfaces and select the most appropriate driving mode.

The SUV’s suspension system is specifically designed for an all-electric vehicle, with a MacPherson multi-link setup in the front and a multi-link system at the rear. This includes self-leveling dampers for added comfort and hydro-bushing to minimize vibrations, contributing to a smoother and more comfortable ride.

The IONIQ 9 also boasts competitive towing capabilities. In trailer mode, the vehicle automatically adjusts for the trailer’s weight, optimizing predicted range and maintaining a balanced front-to-rear motor torque distribution. The European model can tow up to 2,500 kg, while North American models are rated for 5,000 lbs.

In select markets, the IONIQ 9 replaces traditional glass side mirrors with Digital Side Mirrors, which display a side-rear view on a seven-inch OLED monitor. This system offers features like a zoom-out function for reversing, maneuvering guidelines, and lane-change assist, providing enhanced safety and aerodynamic performance.

To minimize road noise, the IONIQ 9 incorporates sound-absorbing tires, structural reinforcements to reduce low-frequency booming noise, and an Active Noise Control-Road (ANC-R) system. These features ensure a quieter and more refined driving experience, addressing one of the key concerns for EV drivers.