Hyundai IONIQ 9: This Massive Electric SUV is Built for Comfort and Can Charge in 24 Minutes
In a world where electric SUVs are extremely popular, Hyundai has just unveiled something huge - both in size and ambition. The new IONIQ 9 isn't just another electric vehicle; it's essentially a luxury living room on wheels that happens to travel up to 335 miles on a single charge. And unlike your living room, this one can recharge itself in just 24 minutes.
Revealed at the iconic Goldstein House in LA, this three-row electric is Hyundai's answer to a question many families have been asking: "can we really go electric without compromising on space?" The answer, it seems, is yes - if you're willing to wait until early 2025.
Space And Comfort: Living Large Goes Electric
As previously mentioned, the IONIQ 9 is extremely spacious. Let’s break down what makes this EV so special:
Seating That's Smarter Than Your Living Room Furniture
The IONIQ 9 offers something unique in the electric SUV space: configurable seating for up to seven passengers. The first and second rows feature "Relaxation" chairs that can fully recline and even offer massage functions.
The real party trick? In six-seat configurations, the second-row captain's chairs can swivel to face the third row when the vehicle is stationary. Perfect for family game nights in charging stations or when you’re relaxing in the car.
Huge Amounts Of Cargo Space
With the third row folded down, you're looking at a huge 1,323 litres of cargo space. Even with all seats up, there's still 620 litres available - enough for a family's worth of luggage or a month's grocery shopping. And because this is an EV, you also get a frunk (front trunk): 88 litres in rear-wheel-drive models, or 52 litres if you opt for all-wheel drive.
Silence Is Golden
Hyundai has gone to extraordinary lengths to make the IONIQ 9 quieter than a library book club. They've employed:
Sound-absorbing tyres (yes, that's a thing),
Triple-sealed doors and windows,
Reinforced A-pillars,
Active noise cancellation technology,
Acoustic laminated glass.
Performance and Range: Numbers That Matter
The IONIQ 9 comes equipped with a 110.3 kWh battery - notably larger than many competitors like the Model Y. But what does this mean for real-world driving? Let's break down the options:
Three Ways to Power Your Journey
Long Range RWD: Single motor delivering 160 kW to the rear wheels - perfect for maximising range
Long Range AWD: Adds a 70 kW front motor for extra confidence in challenging conditions
Performance AWD: Dual 160 kW motors for those who want their living room to move like a sports car.
The Performance AWD variant hits 0-62mph in just 5.2 seconds - impressive for a vehicle of this size. But more importantly for daily use, the Long Range RWD version can travel up to 335 miles on a single charge.
Charge Your Car In 24 Minutes!
Thanks to its 800V architecture, the IONIQ 9 can charge from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes using a 350 kW charger. For context, that's about the time it takes to enjoy a coffee and convince your kids they don't need to buy everything from the service station.
Making the Switch Affordable: Smart Ways to Own an IONIQ 9
While official pricing hasn't been announced, there are already ways to make driving an electric vehicle more accessible. Through salary sacrifice schemes, you could potentially save significantly on your monthly payments while enjoying all the benefits of a brand-new electric SUV.
Cost-Saving Features
Lower maintenance costs compared to traditional SUVs,
Reduced fuel costs,
Potential company car tax benefits.
Tech That Makes Sense
The IONIQ 9 isn't just about loading up on technology - it's about making your life easier. The Universal Island 2.0 console slides back and forth, ensuring everyone can reach what they need. High-output USB-C ports (100W) are powered directly from the main battery, meaning your devices charge as quickly as they would at home.
Smart Features Worth Noting
A panoramic curved display combining 12-inch instruments and 12-inch infotainment,
Over-the-air updates keep your vehicle current,
Digital key functionality through your phone,
UV-C steriliser for small items.
Safety and Driver Assistance: Peace of Mind Included
The IONIQ 9 comes loaded with advanced safety features that make long family trips less stressful. The reinforced body structure protects the battery while maintaining cabin integrity. Notable features include:
Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2,
Lane Keeping Assist,
Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance,
Safe Exit Warning,
Third-row seat belt pre-tensioners (a first in its class).
AI-Enhanced Driving
The Auto Terrain Mode uses artificial intelligence to read the road surface and adjust the suspension accordingly - perfect for those weekend adventures or challenging urban environments.
When Can You Get One?
The IONIQ 9 will first launch in Korea and the United States in early 2025, with European deliveries following later that year. While pricing hasn't been announced, the comprehensive feature set and positioning suggest it will compete in the premium electric SUV segment.
Making It Yours
Looking to join the electric revolution with the IONIQ 9? Here are your next steps:
Register interest with your local Hyundai dealer,
Explore EV salary sacrifice options through your employees,
Calculate potential savings on running costs,
Research home charging options.
Is the IONIQ 9 Right for You?
The IONIQ 9 makes a compelling case for families ready to go electric without compromise. Its combination of space, technology, and rapid charging addresses many common EV concerns. While not everyone needs a vehicle this size, those who do will find few competitors offering such a complete package.
For company car drivers and business users, the tax benefits of choosing an electric vehicle like the IONIQ 9 through salary sacrifice could make this premium SUV surprisingly affordable.
Key Takeaways
Class-leading space and comfort features,
335-mile range eliminates range anxiety,
24-minute fast charging fits real-world use,
Advanced safety features protect what matters,
Potential significant savings through salary sacrifice.
Learn more about The Electric Car Scheme and how EV salary sacrifice schemes can save employees 20-50% on the cost of an electric car by visiting our website.
Last updated 25.11.24
