Hyundai's 2025 IONIQ 9 luxury electric SUV receives a thorough evaluation, highlighting its abundant features and significant cost.
Hyundai's Flagship EV, the IONIQ 9, Makes a Premium Debut in Australia
Hyundai has launched its latest electric vehicle (EV), the IONIQ 9, a three-row electric SUV aimed at the luxury family segment. The vehicle is a key component of Hyundai's ambitious strategy to become a global leader in the EV market by 2040 [1][3][4].
The IONIQ 9 boasts a large 110.3kWh battery, offering a WLTP-rated range of 600km and capable of recharging from 10 to 80 percent in just 24 minutes with a 350kW DC charging station [5]. The SUV is available in one model, the Calligraphy, and features an electric motor on each axle, delivering a combined output of 314kW and 700Nm [6].
The interior of the IONIQ 9 is a blend of luxury and innovation, featuring a curved 12.3-inch instrument cluster and infotainment displays. The materials used are premium, with aluminium fillets, a distressed look to the passenger's side panel, pale suede headlining, soft Nappa leather front seats, and an active noise cancellation system [7].
The IONIQ 9 offers generous second-row accommodation, with ample headroom and foot space. Both rear rows come equipped with two 100w USB-C sockets and cupholders. The second row also features dedicated AC controls, and the vehicle offers a tri-zone air-con split [8].
Access to the third row is quick and easy due to an electric fold forward and slide function for the second-row seats. However, the third row has two cupholders on the driver's side but only one on the kerb side [6].
The IONIQ 9's safety suite, SmartSense, seems well calibrated, featuring second-generation Forward Collision-avoidance Assist 2, Highway Driving Assist 2, and Lane Following Assist 2 systems. The vehicle also comes equipped with a very clear surround view monitor, remote smart parking using the key fob, and 10 airbags [6].
The IONIQ 9's braked towing capacity is 2500kg [6]. The vehicle has a 12v connector and a remote boot opening switch on one side of the luggage bay, while on the other are the four buttons for raising and lowering each of the two rearmost rows of seats. Notably, the IONIQ 9 does not come with a spare wheel and tyre set [9].
The IONIQ 9's column-mounted gear lever features an integrated starter button. The vehicle steps off the line cleanly, and the steering is accurate and not too light, with a decent transition between regenerative and friction braking [9].
Hyundai Australia's CEO, Don Romano, acknowledges that the company hasn't made the most of their opportunities in the electric vehicle market in Australia, due to a direct sales model that alienated their dealer network [10]. The IONIQ 9's impact in Australia will rest on Hyundai’s ability to improve sales execution locally and compete against rivals like Kia [1][2][3][4].
The IONIQ 9 is offered with ten different paint finishes, all of which attract an option charge [11]. The front seats in the IONIQ 9 have an air cushion massage function, heating and ventilation, a one-touch electric relaxation recline, and adjustable side bolsters [12].
The IONIQ 9's 24-month/30,000km service costs $660, and the 48-month/60,000 appointment is $685, which is reasonable for such a big, luxurious car. Over-the-air updates are part of the ownership experience [9].
The IONIQ 9's optional camera-based door mirror system is not preferred due to the definition of the screens and the wide angle of view being tricky. Instead, conventional mirrors are used [13]. The captain's chairs are extremely comfortable, featuring slide, recline, heating and cooling functions. They also fold fairly flat, so when the rear seats are also folded, there's a largely flat load floor, albeit with a gaping slot caused by the gap between the two individual chairs [14].
Romano contends that the IONIQ 9 is aimed at those already sold on electric vehicles, rather than one that is set to convert petrolheads [15]. With its premium features, advanced technology, and focus on comfort and innovation, the IONIQ 9 represents Hyundai's push into the luxury electric SUV market, expanding beyond earlier models' segments.
- The IONIQ 9, a key component of Hyundai's strategy, is aimed at becoming a global leader in the electric vehicle (EV) industry by 2040.
- The premium interior of the IONIQ 9, with features like an air cushion massage function and heated and ventilated front seats, indicates Hyundai's ambition to excel in the luxury lifestyle market.
- The automotive technology of the IONIQ 9, featuring a large battery capable of recharging quickly and advanced safety systems, positions the vehicle as a competitor in the automotive industry.
- The IONIQ 9's focus on innovation, from its pioneering electric vehicles to its luxurious and comfortable features, signals its alignment with modern transportation trends and the increasing adoption of electric vehicles in the finance and technology sectors.
