Hyundai IONIQ 9 2025 Review - International

The 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 9 is one of Hyundai’s boldest moves yet – and that’s saying something. This tech-savvy, luxurious seven-seat electric SUV is designed to unite families and tempt them away from their trusty petrol and diesel rides. Set to hit Australian roads around May 2025, this behemoth out-sizes even the eight-seat Palisade and sets its sights on seducing Volvo EX90 and XC90 fans. The IONIQ 9 doesn’t reinvent the SUV playbook and comes dangerously close to the premium heights of its Genesis luxury brand sibling but our first spin at Hyundai’s Mojave proving ground shows a whisper-quiet and very polished powerhouse that’s off to an impressive start. The burning question is whether customers will pay Mercedes-Benz money for a Hyundai…

How much does the Hyundai IONIQ 9 cost?

Pricing for the 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 9 hasn’t been locked in yet but considering its sibling, the Kia EV9, costs between $97,000 and $121,000 (before on-road costs), we expect the IONIQ 9 to start just above $100,000 and climb to around $140,000 for the top trims.

Equipment details are still in limbo too but the line-up will likely include three trims, topped by an ultra-plush Calligraphy.

That said, we do know that even the entry-level models will be well-equipped, with dual 12-inch screens, an Android-based operating system with over-the-air updates and fun extras like custom light shows and themed displays – that cost extra.

Practical touches include a huge (and sliding) front console, loads of family-friendly storage cubbies, plus super-high-output 100W USB-C ports (that could charge a laptop), cup holders and vents across all three seat rows.

Check out the Hyundai IONIQ 9 reveal story for a deeper dive into equipment levels across the model range.

Powertrain options mirror those of the EV9 and comprise a Long Range single-motor set-up (rear-drive, 160kW/350Nm), a Long Range dual-motor AWD and a flagship Performance dual-motor primed to throw down 320kW/700Nm.

Translation? The fastest variant sprints from 0-100km/h in a brisk 5.3 seconds – quick by anyone’s measure but in EV terms, it’s middle of the road.

Every IONIQ 9 packs a beefy 110kWh lithium-ion (NCM) battery – bigger than the Kia EV9’s 76kWh and 99kWh options – and leverages Hyundai’s 800V e-GMP architecture. Fast-charging? Up to 350kW, which Hyundai claims will deliver a 10-80 per cent top-up in just 24 minutes. In other words, ideal conditions should see it add more than 400km of range 20 minutes. Sounds speedy, but we’ll have to test it to be sure.

What’s good about the Hyundai IONIQ 9?

The 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 9 has plenty to brag about, starting with its roomy and luxurious interior.

Sure, the exterior design is subjective, but step inside and it’s hard not to be impressed by the big, comfy front seats. They provide excellent support and the intuitive infotainment system avoids overcomplication.

Second and third-row passengers get generous space and thoughtful amenities – a win for families. Australia will get seven-seat versions first, with Hyundai mulling the lounge-like six-seater and its swivelling middle-row chairs that are very cool and create a lounge-room-on-wheels vibe.

Piloting the big Beluga whale is easy and pleasant, thanks to a quiet, smooth and refined drive.