When a vehicle transcends its own brief to become a symbol of what mobility can be you know the game is changing. The Hyundai IONIQ 9 isn’t merely another electric SUV it represents the Korean brand’s bold leap into future proof family transport with zero emissions flagship technology and full sized ambition. As India wades deeper into the era of EVs the IONIQ 9 has arrived at precisely the right time to create real buzz. With its cavernous cabin cutting edge battery hardware and three row seating it promises more than just electrification it offers versatility polish and presence. For Indian buyers seeking an aspirational all electric SUV that doesn’t compromise on space or refinement this model demands attention.
Hyundai IONIQ 9 Design & Exterior
From the moment you set eyes on the IONIQ 9, its design stakes are unapologetically high. The SUV’s lines follow Hyundai’s “Aerosthetic” philosophy smooth flowing surfaces, active aero flaps and a low drag coefficient of just 0.259 Cd make it as visually compelling as it is efficient.
The proportions are generous: roughly 5.06 m long, 1.98 m wide and 1.79 m tall. The long wheelbase (3,130 mm) further enhances its grounded stance. Up front, pixel style LED headlights and a minimalist closed grille identify it as part of the IONIQ EV family. Side profile shows strong surfacing and flush door handles, while the rear is sporty yet sophisticated with integrated aero elements.
Colour wise, premium dual tone finishes and metallic accents elevate the visual language. Interiors flow seamlessly into the exterior theme with contrasting roof finishes and upscale wheel designs. In India, where electric SUVs are still niche, the IONIQ 9’s presence will feel elevated, refined and future-ready.
Hyundai IONIQ 9 Interior & Comfort
Inside the IONIQ 9, the brand’s ambition becomes tangible. The cabin is spacious to the point of feeling executive class thanks to the ultra long wheelbase and the flat floor design made possible by the EV platform. In its UK spec, boot space measures 338 litres with all seats upright and up to 2,494 litres with rows stowed.
Dashboard and ergonomics lean luxury the floating “Universal Island” center console, panoramic curved display that spans cockpit width and lounge style second row seats offer refinement rarely seen at this segment. In higher trims, features such as massage seats, UV-C sterilization and swiveling seats raise the atmosphere beyond mere mobility.
Materials, finishes and quality feel premium soft touch surfaces, brushed metal effects and ambient lighting all contribute to the upscale experience. Rear occupants enjoy roominess and comfort that outclass many petrol SUV rivals and for Indian families, the versatility for 6 or 7seats makes this a compelling space centric option.
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Hyundai IONIQ 9 Performance & Engine Options
At the heart of the Hyundai IONIQ 9 lies a 110.3 kWh lithium ion battery, with variants across three drivetrain configurations: Long Range RWD, Long Range AWD and Performance AWD.
- Long Range RWD: approximately 218 PS, torque around 350 Nm, WLTP range up to 620 km.
- Long Range AWD: dual-motor setup, sharper acceleration (0-100 km/h in around 6.7 s) per South Korean data.
- Performance AWD: up to 422 PS and 605 Nm of torque in certain markets. Charging from 10-80 % claimed in just 24 minutes on 350 kW DC fast charger.
In Indian conditions, the real world benefits will include smooth and silent EV drivetrain behaviour, strong low end torque for city driving, and confident high speed cruising courtesy of the big battery and aerodynamic design. The direct drive single-speed transmission keeps things simple and refined.
Handling is also polished: the low centre of gravity afforded by the battery, combined with active aerodynamics and chassis tuning, allows a large vehicle to act composed in corners and stable at highway pace. The Hyundai IONIQ 9 isn’t about wild dynamics it’s about composed, effortless premium driving.
Hyundai IONIQ 9 Technology & Features
Hyundai IONIQ 9 is rich in cutting edge features aimed at a future looking driver. The dual screen setup (12.3″+12.3″) integrates all driving, infotainment and connectivity functions seamlessly. Support for over the air updates, smart voice assistance and an app store for additional features emphasise Hyundai’s software-first mindset.
Connectivity features include multiple USB-C ports, bidirectional charging (Vehicle-to-Load or V2L), and large digital clusters. For driver assistance, the vehicle offers Level-2 ADAS in many markets: adaptive cruise control, lane centering, automatic parking and a full suite of sensors.
Comfort features across higher trims extend to massage seats, sliding centre console, premium Nappa/leather upholstery and generous second row luxury. The cabin shows that EVs are no longer just about efficiency they can deliver flagship ambience.
Hyundai IONIQ 9 Safety Upgrades
Safety is unquestionably a strong pillar of the IONIQ 9’s proposition. Up to 10 airbags, ISOFIX child-seat mounts, electronic parking brake with auto hold and a full 360° camera system are listed for global specs.
In crash test domains the vehicle is still early in some markets, but the use of Hyundai’s robust E-GMP platform delivers high structural integrity and advanced active safety architecture. Features such as collision mitigation, lane keep assist and terrain aware dynamics strengthen its case as a family safe electric SUV.
For Indian buyers who are increasingly scrutinizing safety ratings, Hyundai IONIQ 9’s global credentials will matter and Hyundai India will need to ensure the model meets local NCAP standards to fully capitalise on trust.
Hyundai IONIQ 9 Variants & Price
While Indian launch details are not fully confirmed, current global pricing and local estimates give strong guidelines. In the UK and other markets, entry pricing starts above ~£70,000–80,000 (≈ ₹80–90 lakh) for the base Long Range RWD model, rising to over £100,000 (₹1.20+ crore) for higher trims.
For India, expect a starting price around ₹1 crore (ex-showroom) for the base electric variant factoring in import costs, localisation and duties.
Expected variants may include:
- IONIQ 9 Long Range RWD – base EV offering high range.
- IONIQ 9 Long Range AWD – dual motor, improved performance.
- IONIQ 9 Performance AWD – flagship, high power and luxury features.
Feature-rich specification levels will likely correspond with premium pricing and optional packs (premium audio, panoramic roof, advanced ADAS). Residual values and service network will also be key purchase considerations.
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Hyundai IONIQ 9 Competitors Comparison
In the Indian luxury EV segment Hyundai IONIQ 9 will directly challenge models such as the Kia EV9, Mercedes‑Benz EQS SUV and potential upcoming offerings from premium brands.
- The Kia EV9 offers similar three row space and EV capability but the IONIQ 9 stands out with slightly stronger range and more aggressive tech.
- The Mercedes EQS SUV delivers luxury brand appeal IONIQ 9 undercuts it in pricing while offering large core features.
- More mainstream EVs like the Hyundai Creta EV may serve as indirect competition at lower price points, but Hyundai IONIQ 9 clearly targets the premium space.
In essence, Hyundai’s premium electric SUV is well positioned: offering three row versatility, long electric range, broad features and a strong value play compared to ultra premium marques.
Who Should Buy the Hyundai IONIQ 9?
This is a model aimed at discerning buyers who refuse to compromise families needing three row seating, tech savvy urban professionals seeking zero emission mobility, and those wanting flagship status without luxury brand premium. If you travel long distances regularly or want the flexibility of EV home charging plus rapid fast charging for road trips, Hyundai IONIQ 9 makes sense. If you appreciate elegant design, a premium cabin and high end tech, but want brand credibility with Hyundai’s service network, you’ll find appeal here.
For students or budget buyers, this might be over specified and entry premium SUVs or EVs might be more appropriate. But for those who see their car as a statement of future readiness, the IONIQ 9 is a compelling choice.
Final Verdict: Hyundai IONIQ 9 – The Future of Electric Luxury
The Hyundai IONIQ 9 rounds off Hyundai’s EV lineage with style, substance and sheer ambition. It doesn’t just promise zero emission travel it delivers space, luxury, tech and performance that compete with the best in the business. While pricing remains high and infrastructure is still catching up in India, this SUV is a statement in more ways than one it tells us Hyundai is serious about electrified mobility and ready to raise the stakes.
If you’re a buyer in 2025 or beyond who wants a premium electric SUV capable of daily commuting, family travel and inspiring presence, the IONIQ 9 deserves your full consideration. With Hyundai’s backing and an advanced platform beneath it, the road ahead looks electrified and the IONIQ 9 is ready to lead that journey.
