As we have watched the world of electric vehicles expand and grow, starting with small cars, then moving on to SUVs and even pickup trucks, it was only a matter of time that we would see a three-row all-electric SUV. Yes, there are a few other three row electric SUVs, but none are like the Hyundai Ioniq 9 - a seven-passenger, retro-styled, long-range EV that is like a family-styled space shuttle for the road.
The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 is a three-row electric SUV that is about the same size as Hyundai's popular Palisade SUV. It's styling however is quite unique, featuring a retro-modernistic design, one that Hyundai calls Aerosthetic. Up front, it features Parametric Pixels that span the width of the vehicle. Move to the side of the vehicle, which initially looks somewhat plain, until you spot the distracting wheel arches, with "eyebrows" on them - something I can't say I have seen before. Overall, the Ioniq 9 provides a unique look - one that is bound to turn a few heads.
The Ioniq 9 is offered in a choice of three powertrains - a rear-wheel drive (Long-Range RWD) and two all-wheel-drive setups (Long-Range AWD and Performance AWD). The base Long-Range RWD model uses a single, rear-mounted 215-hp motor, while Long-Range AWD versions add an 89-hp front motor for a total of 303 horses. The Performance AWD model uses a pair of 211-hp motors for a combined 422-hp output.
When it comes to range, probably the biggest concern with an EV, the Ioniq 9 is impressive. The Long-Range RWD can travel up to 335 miles on a full charge while the Long-Range AWD can go 320 miles. For the Performance AWD, the added performance comes at a slight cost, with a range of 311 miles, still, quite impressive, especially for a vehicle the size of the Ioniq 9. Every Ioniq 9 comes with a 110-kWh battery and Hyundai claims they can charge from 10% to 80% in only 24 minutes using a 350-kW DC fast charger.
Five trims levels are on tap: the base S uses the Long-Range RWD powertrain and includes a second-row bench seat (for maximum seating of seven), cloth interior and 19-inch wheels. The SE is basically the same but uses the Long-Range AWD powertrain. The SEL adds to the SE 20-inch wheels and synthetic leather upholstery. The Limited gets the Performance AWD powertrain, larger 21-inch wheels and captain's chairs for the second row. The Calligraphy is the flagship trim level, offering a luxurious experience with premium materials, advanced technology, and unique design elements.
Pricing for the Ioniq 9 start at $60,555 for the base S, while my tester, a Calligraphy, has an MSRP of $77,540.
Inside, the Ionic 9 offers plenty of room for adults in all three rows. On the tester, both the front seats and the second-row captain's chairs have heating and ventilation functions. Third-row seats, while less plush, still do their job and provide more room than most other SUVs of this size. Regardless of where you seat, everyone will experience the whisper-quiet cabin.
Driver and passengers will get a kick out of the many advanced tech features that the Ioniq 9 is equipped with. The Bose audio system will satisfy those that appreciate music and the Ionic 9 is setup for both wireless use of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Drivers will appreciate the adaptive cruise control system along with the lane keeping system, which does an excellent job of keeping the car centered in its lane. Other features, such as a driver attention monitor as well as a system that can prevent rear occupants from opening the doors into traffic, are particularly useful for families.
The dash of the Ioniq 9 is interesting as it uses a curved dash display comprising of two seamlessly joined 12.3-inch sections, one for the instrument cluster and one for infotainment system. In the middle of the dash is a lower panel that houses the HVAC controls. The gear selector, which is mounted low and to the right of the steering column, is a little odd to use at first, but quickly becomes second nature. First timers looking for the on/off button will eventually find it on the gear selector stalk.
With 422 horses, as expected, the Ioniq 9 has plenty of power. Tests show that it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds. For any vehicle, that is fast, and for a three-row SUV - it's very impressive. As with most EVs, the Ioniq 9 is very quiet, accelerates smoothly, and overall is a very easy vehicle to drive.
The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 is an excellent pick for an electric three-row SUV. It has a luxurious interior, smooth ride quality, quick acceleration and very good range. The styling may be up for grabs as some might not care for it, but it's clear that the Ioniq 9 definitely stands out in a crowd of SUVs.