When introduced in 2016, the original Hyundai Ioniq was a compact liftback. It was offered with three eco-friendly powertrain options: hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and battery electric. It didn’t last long; getting discontinued in 2021.
The original model has departed, but Hyundai kept the name and expanded. The current Ioniq brand includes the Ioniq 5, an all-electric compact crossover SUV. The Ioniq 6 is an electric midsize fastback sedan. Neither one has much in common with the company’s newest EV – the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9, a three-row, midsize SUV that seats six to seven passengers.
The Ioniq 9 is built on the same Hyundai platform as the Kia EV9, another three-row all-electric SUV. The Ioniq 9 also shares similarities with the Palisade, a popular three-row gas-powered SUV. They are similar in size, although the Ioniq 9 has more interior space than the Palisade due to its longer wheelbase and EV platform.
Powertrain choices are abundant with the Ioniq 9. The standard model is a rear-wheel-drive, single-motor. There’s also two all-wheel-drive dual-motor versions. Not surprisingly, the least powerful is the rear-wheel drive model that generates 215 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque.
The long-range model adds a front-mounted motor to the rear-wheel drive for a combined 303 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Yet it’s not as powerful as the Ioniq 9 performance Calligraphy model that delivers a combined 422 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. It goes 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds, easily the fastest of the three models.
If looking for an SUV that can be a serious hauler, go with the all-wheel drive that increases the towing capacity from 3,500 pounds to 5,000 pounds.
Depending on the powertrain, the Ioniq 9 has a range between 311 to 335 miles. The battery pack is the same in all three versions – 110.3-kWh. It can be fast charged from 10% to 80% in a mere 24 minutes. Note that all Ioniq 9s can access Tesla’s Supercharger network.
The Ioniq 9 provides a smooth, comfortable ride with very minimal road noise. We love the regenerative braking and its four levels to select. Standard driver safety features include forward collision avoidance assist; lane keeping assist; blind spot and rear cross traffic collision avoidance; highway drive assist; smart cruise control with stop and go; and remote smart parking assist.
The redesigned Hyundai Sant Fe and the Ioniq 9 share some similar interior features, including the dual 12.3-inch displays that form a digital cockpit with next-generation infotainment system. The center-mounted touchscreen is curved. The Ioniq 9 has seven USB-C charging ports located in all three rows and is equipped with a standard 8-speaker audio system.
AT A GLANCE – 2026 HYUNDAI IONIQ 9
- Performance: single motor, 215-horsepower; two motors, 303 horsepower; two motors, 422 horsepower
- Mileage estimate: 85-92 MPGe
- Price estimate: $58,900 to $76,600
- Warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles; Drivetrain: 10 years/100,000 miles; Roadside assistance: 5 years/unlimited; Corrosion: 7 years/unlimited; Battery: 10 years/100,000 miles
Seating is spacious throughout the Ioniq 9. The front row has ample head and leg room and various power adjustments that give passengers plenty of options. The second row is available as a bench seat for three or two comfy captain’s chairs. The third row is more suitable for two kids, but adults have enough room that will suffice during short drives.
The cargo area offers 21.9 cubic feet behind the third row and the push of a button stretches it to 46.7 cubes when the third row is folded to the floor. It has a maximum capacity of 86.9 cubic feet with both rows down. It also has a small storage area in front (called a frunk).
The newest addition to the Ioniq electric brand may be its best. The 2026 Ioniq 9 is a luxurious three-row SUV with considerable upside. And the sticker price isn’t overwhelming, starting at around $59,000.
Folsom Times featured auto writer Jeffrey Weidel can be reached atskiweidel@gmail.com.
