2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 review

The best luxury electric SUV doesn't come from one of the European manufacturers, it comes from Hyundai in the form of the Ioniq 9, a large six- or seven-seat vehicle that sits at the top of the Korean brand's EV range in Australia.

Offering driving range of up to 600km (WLTP) from a 110.3kWh battery and driven by dual motors, the Ioniq 9 three-row SUV offers sophisticated finishes, advanced technology and ultra-fast charging capability combined with the practicality and flexibility of up to 2410-litres cargo space.

Priced from $119,750, with the six-seat option carrying a $2000 premium, the Hyundai Ioniq 9 rivals premium electric SUVs with advanced technology, graceful styling and high levels of comfort.

More: Australia's best electric cars, SUVs and utes

What does the Hyundai Ioniq 9 look like?

The Ioniq 9 is available as a single highly specified Calligraphy grade. It has a bold, futuristic exterior with pixel-inspired LED lighting and a commanding presence whichever of the 10 paint colours you choose. Sculpted wheel arches and a transparent front grille add attractive detail, but the Ioniq 9 doesn't really need much more to help it stand out from the crowd - this is a vehicle with real presence.

What is the interior of the Hyundai Ioniq 9 like?

Inside, the Hyundai Ioniq 9 is lounge-like whether you take the six- or seven-seat options. There's Nappa leather, heated and ventilated seats, a massaging driver’s seat, dual 12.3-inch curved displays, and clever storage solutions. Step up to the six-seat option and the second row passengers will travel in the lap of luxury with relaxing captain's chairs.

The second and third rows fold for capacious load carrying capacity, but the light coloured interior is unforgiving, and is likely to be given a wide berth by families with young children. 

Premium technology features include a 14-speaker Bose audio system, UV phone steriliser and the introduction of Digital Key 2 for the first time on a Hyundai model, so the car can be opened and operated by smartphone. There's also the option of digital side mirrors to up the tech game, but they add little to the driving experience. 

How does the Hyundai Ioniq 9 drive?

The priciest Hyundai is also the smoothest, with a quiet ride boosted by strong acceleration from its dual motors (314kW, 700Nm). It feels refined and stable, prioritising comfort over sporty handling, even on its large 21-inch wheels.

Instant torque makes city driving effortless, while adaptive suspension ensures it maintains composure on highways. There's no doubting this is a hefty SUV so agility isn’t its strong suit, but it excels as a relaxed cruiser offering a cosseting ride for all the family and can hustle when necessary. Drivers looking for a more rewarding drive from a Hyundai EV will find all the spirit they are looking for in the Hyundai Ioniq 5N and upcoming 6N.

How safe is the Hyundai Ioniq 9?

The Ioniq 9 achieved a five-star ANCAP rating under 2025 protocols. Scores include 84% Adult Occupant, 86% Child Occupant, and 85% Safety Assist.

Safety features on the Hyundai Ioniq 9 include:

• Maximum points for driver and child protection in crash tests
• Head-protecting airbags extending to the third row
• Active pop-up bonnet for pedestrian safety
• Advanced collision avoidance tech, including cyclist and motorcyclist detection
• Hyundai’s SmartSense driver assistance suite adds adaptive cruise, lane-keeping, and Highway Driving Pilot features.
• Connected car safety features including eCall and breakdown assistance via complimentary 5-year Bluelink subscription

More: Research and compare Hyundai electric vehicles

Should I buy the Hyundai Ioniq 9?

If you want a premium, spacious electric SUV with cutting-edge tech from one of the most experienced EV manufacturers, the Ioniq 9 is an excellent choice - especially for families. The Kia EV9 GT-Line offers a similar driving experience for fewer dollars, but the Hyundai bests it for finish, details and crucially, driving range.

If you have upwards of $120,000 to spend, you're likely to find the Volvo EX90 a close competitor to the Ioniq 9, but tricky electrical issues reported globally by its first buyers may make it a less compelling proposition when it comes to reliability.

More: Research and compare family cars and SUVs

^{The information provided is general advice only. Before making any decisions please consider your own circumstances and the Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determinations. For copies, visit racv.com.au. As distributor, RACV Insurance Services Pty Ltd AFS Licence No. 230039 receives commission for each policy sold or renewed. Product(s) issued by Insurance Manufacturers of Australia Pty Ltd ABN 93 004 208 084 AFS Licence No. 227678.}