We were expecting an exuberant and very imposing vehicle, and we cannot say that Hyundai disappointed us. Unveiled by the American branch of Hyundai, the new Ioniq 9 impresses at first glance. And if the American subsidiary was chosen for the formalization of this enormous electric machine, it is no coincidence: with 5.06 m long and above all a gigantic wheelbase of 3.13 m, this type of size should above all appeal to Americans. Next to it, the Kia EV9 and its 4.93 m would almost pale in comparison. The two are also cousins within the Hyundai group, but the comparison stops there, both aesthetically and technically since, if the Ioniq 9 takes up the E-GMP platform, it is entitled to a battery and specific engine powers.
Camera mirrors, to reduce aero drag
The Ioniq 9 therefore pulls no punches by using this famous light signature in the form of a long line on the grille, high and wide. The style is not entirely a surprise, given that we find some reminders of other models in the range, such as the Kona, but in an obviously completely different format. The rear is very original, with these vertical lights running along the stern, which would be reminiscent of a certain… Range Rover.
We would have liked Hyundai to communicate to us the sCx values, but the brand is content, like many others, to announce the only Cx at 0.259… when the Ioniq 9 is equipped with its camera mirrors, which are optional. An interesting value, but which tells us nothing about the real aero drag of the Ioniq 9, which we imagine to be significant given the height and massive frontal surface.
On the practical side, the Ioniq 9 offers 620 dm3 of trunk space in a seven-seater configuration, and 1,323 dm3 in a five-seater configuration with the third row of seats folded. A front trunk is present on the rear-wheel drive versions and gives the right to an additional 88 dm3.
Same engines as the EV9?
For the moment, Hyundai is content to announce a single 110.3 kWh battery pack, which would provide 620 km of autonomy on the WLTP cycle with 218 hp propulsion. Other variants will be offered, but all based on this battery with a generous capacity and above all larger than those that can be found on the EV9.
- Ioniq 9 Long Range RWD : 218 ch
- Ioniq 9 Long Range AWD : 313 ch
- Ionq 9 Performance AWD : 435 ch
The battery can be recharged at 350 kW terminals using the 800 V network, but Hyundai does not tell us the maximum charging capacity. In addition, the Ioniq 9 will benefit from a V2L (Vehicle to Load) device. Occupants in all three rows will be entitled to a USB port delivering 100 W of power and drawing power directly from the high-voltage battery, and not from the 12 V battery.
The Ioniq 9 is also equipped with technological tools, such as AI, to control the terrain and adapt the suspension, active noise reduction on board, or even the multitude of driving aids that cannot be not even count anymore. Finally, for companies or individuals who are interested, know that the Ioniq 9 can tow up to 2,500 kg. But this will be to the detriment of autonomy, which is already mediocre given the capacity of the battery.
