Introduction to the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9
Hyundai has expanded its electric vehicle range with the introduction of the 2026 Ioniq 9, a seven-seat flagship model that promises a claimed driving range of 600km. Priced at approximately $130,000, it is the largest and most expensive electric car ever sold by Hyundai in Australia. This new model is positioned as a halo for the brand, aiming to showcase Hyundai’s ability to build electric vehicles of all sizes. It also caters to a niche market of customers who desire a seven-seat electric Hyundai.
The Ioniq 9 shares similarities with the Kia EV9, launched two years ago, but features a slightly larger footprint and a bigger battery, resulting in a longer driving range. While the Ioniq 9 is not expected to set sales charts alight, it represents a bold move for Hyundai, especially given the current state of the electric vehicle market in Australia.
Pricing and Competition
The Ioniq 9 is available in a single high-grade variant called the Calligraphy, which includes dual-motor all-wheel drive, a large 110.3kWh battery, and an extensive list of features. The base price before on-road costs is $119,750, making it the most expensive Hyundai ever sold in Australia. Compared to other models, such as the Ioniq 5 N and the diesel Hyundai Palisade, the Ioniq 9 is significantly more expensive.
In terms of competition, the Ioniq 9 faces off against the Kia EV9, which is priced from $121,000 plus on-road costs in its GT-Line trim. While the Kia is slightly cheaper, it lacks some features, such as digital side mirrors, which make the Ioniq 9 more expensive. Other competitors include the Volvo EX90 Plus and the Volkswagen ID. Buzz GTX, both of which are priced similarly.
Features and Interior
The Ioniq 9 comes with a range of standard features, including 21-inch alloy wheels, adaptive LED headlights, dual 12.3-inch interior screens, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, tri-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, a 14-speaker Bose stereo, head-up display, nappa leather trim, and heating and ventilation for the front and outboard second-row seats.
One notable feature is the Digital Key 2, allowing owners to use their phone as the vehicle’s key. Additional options include a six-seat interior layout, digital side mirror cameras, and various colour choices. Ticking all these options can increase the price to around $135,400.
Space and Layout
The Ioniq 9 is slightly larger than the EV9, with a longer wheelbase and overall length, making it even bigger than the current Palisade. This translates into ample space inside for passengers and cargo. The cabin is well-appointed, featuring nappa leather on the seats, soft suede for the headlining, and metallic finishes on the air vents and key controls.
The seating arrangement offers comfort and support, with 16-way power-adjustable, heated and ventilated front seats. The steering column has plenty of adjustment, and the steering wheel is leather-trimmed with easy-to-use buttons. Storage is well catered for, with a roomy glovebox, open space ahead of the centre console, and a deep under-armrest storage box.
Technology and Infotainment
The Ioniq 9 features dual 12.3-inch displays for instruments and infotainment, running Hyundai’s latest ‘ccNC’ software. Wireless and wired versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, along with satellite navigation, AM, FM and digital DAB radio. Over-the-air downloadable software updates and support for Hyundai’s Bluelink phone app are also available.
The 14-speaker Bose audio system is decent, though not overly impressive for a $130,000 car. The instrument cluster can’t show a full-screen map, but the head-up display is likely to be useful for many drivers.
Safety and Performance
The Ioniq 9 is equipped with advanced safety technology, including Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2), which allows the vehicle to change lanes on its own under certain conditions. Adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist systems are also included, though they may be intrusive in certain situations.
The Ioniq 9 claims a driving range of 600km in European WLTP lab testing, thanks to a large 110.3kWh battery. Real-world driving range is estimated to be between 440km to 550km, depending on conditions. DC fast charging is among the fastest on the market, with a 24-minute recharge from 10 to 80 per cent on a 350kW plug.
Driving Experience
The Ioniq 9 delivers powerful performance, with a claimed 0-100km/h acceleration time of 5.2 seconds. The ride quality is balanced between comfort and control, with a softer feel over speed humps and big bumps. However, rougher roads expose a firmer side to the ride comfort, resulting in some ‘head toss’ for occupants.
The steering is direct and accurate enough for a big vehicle, though it lacks the agility of its Kia sibling. Regenerative braking modes are available, with the option to bring the car to a full stop without touching the brake pedal.
Conclusion
The Ioniq 9 is a fitting flagship for the growing Hyundai range, offering a spacious and well-appointed cabin, excellent technology, a long list of features, V8-like performance, confident ride and handling, rapid charging, and a long range. If you’re looking for a spacious, tech-packed electric car for the family and your budget stretches this far, the Ioniq 9 should be at the top of your test-list.
