A new Hyundai three-row electric SUV is set to hit the US market. Ahead of its official debut, the Hyundai IONIQ 9 was caught testing in the US. From the looks of it, the electric SUV looks even bigger and bolder in person.
Hyundai is already outpacing rivals in the US with its wide-ranging lineup of affordable, efficient EVs, including the IONIQ 5, IONIQ 6, and Kona Electric.
After EV sales surged 62% in the first three months of the year, setting new Q1 IONIQ 5 and Kona Electric records, Hyundai looks to keep the momentum rolling. Hyundai Motor America CEO Randy Parker said, “Demand for our vehicles, especially EVs, remains high” after the record-setting performance.
In a recent interview with Electrek, Parker said Hyundai is “sticking to its strategy” despite rivals like Ford and GM rethinking EV plans. Electric vehicles remain a core part of Hyundai’s strategy.
According to data from the US Department of Energy, Hyundai has six of the top ten most fuel-efficient EVs in the US this year. The 2024 Hyundai IONIQ 6 Long Range RWD (w/ 18″ wheels) placed first, topping the Lucid Air Pure with 140 MPGe (combined).
The redesigned 2024 Kona Electric (Long Range) and IONIQ 5 (Long Range RWD) also made the list.
Hyundai IONIQ 9 shown in new US testing video
Part of Hyundai’s plans to keep the ball rolling is a new, larger electric SUV to sit above the IONIQ 5.
Although it was initially expected to be called the IONIQ 7, Hyundai’s first three-row electric SUV is expected to go by the IONIQ 9.
When asked about the IONIQ 9 hitting the US market, Parker told Electrek, “It’s definitely coming,” but no new details were offered. The Hyundai IONIQ 9 has been spotted testing several times ahead of its official debut.
Most recently, a new video from Kindel Auto shows the Hyundai IONIQ 9 testing in the US. The video shows the electric SUV’s big body as it passes by.
You can also see what appears to be Hyundai’s signature pixelated LED headlights, similar to the IONIQ 5/6 models. It also has stacked LED rear taillights.
Hyundai’s IONIQ 9 could be larger than the new Kia EV9 at 197.2″ long, 77.9″ wide, and 70.1″ tall (with roof rails)
The IONIQ 9 was spotted a few months ago beside a Kia EV9. According to the reporters, the IONIQ 9 appeared slightly larger and “very full” up front. Meanwhile, with a more sloped A-pillar, Hyundai’s electric SUV seemed less boxy than the EV9.
With 42.8″ of legroom, the EV9 already has more than the Cadillac Escalade and 3-row Range Rover P400. Can Hyundai’s IONIQ 9 top it?
The IONIQ 9 is expected to be built at Hyundai’s new $7.6 billion EV Metaplant in Georgia. Once up and running, Hyundai expects EVs made at the facility to qualify for the $7,500 federal tax credit, which should boost Hyundai’s competitiveness in the US market.
Hyundai’s three-row electric SUV will compete with the Rivian R1S, Kia EV9, Volvo EX90, and others in the segment.
What do you think? Would you choose Hyundai’s IONIQ 9 over the competitors? Let us know in the comments.