ON THE ROAD – IAN LYNAS PREVIEWS THE NEW HYUNDAI IONIQ 9

Late last year, the Hyundai IONIQ 9 appeared on the motoring scene; this generous sized SUV EV has been seen as one of the most anticipated electric vehicles and it follows on from the award winning IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6; and by 2030 the South Korean car manufacturer is aiming to have a range of twenty one EVs.

The styling of the IONIQ 9 is characterised by clean, sophisticated and stylish design that not only projects the strength and confidence of a modern SUV but also produces an aerodynamically optimised form, resulting in an enhanced airflow and a drag coefficient of just 0.27Cd. The family’s parametric pixel signature design theme is represented on this newcomer in the horizontal daytime running lights, vertical headlights and rear tail lights that surround the wide tailgate opening which, according to Hyundai, makes loading effortless .

I must focus on the interior, which is innovative with something of a lounge-like atmosphere created through elliptical elements and calming tones, while natural light streams through the optional panoramic sunroof. Those who will travel in this vehicle will benefit from roominess with ample second and third row space and a flat floor, accommodating flexible seating arrangements for six or seven occupants. The centre console revolutionises interior accessibility with its walk through front row arrangement alongside bidirectional armrests that open from front and rear, allowing easy access from the second row, while the entire console can slide up to 190mm, delivering greater storage flexibility. When it comes to comfort and practicality, the well-appointed interior is also home to a host of technologically advanced features such as Hyundai AI Assistant, a development of the company’s existing voice recognition system. This system uses generative AI to assist the driver in controlling multiple vehicle systems such as climate control functions and navigation alongside interacting with the driver upon request for information such as local restaurant recommendations.

Throughout the range, models feature an 110kWh battery, with a choice of long range 218PS RWD, long range 307PS AWD or 427PS AWD performance powertrains, all with standard heat pump, manually selectable battery conditioning and Vehicle 2 Load with internal three pin plug. The long-range RWD model offers easily accessible power thanks to its 160-kW rear motor, while the long-range AWD adds a 66-kW front motor for extra performance and for maximum output, the performance AWD models boast powerful 157-kW motors on both the front and rear axles. Taking a look at performance figures, the performance AWD model accelerates from rest to 100kph (62 mph) in just 5.2 seconds, while the long-range AWD variant takes 6.7 seconds and the long-range RWD achieves this in 9.4 seconds. Torque levels of 350Nm for long range RWD, 605Nm for long range AWD and 700Nm for performance models ensure rapid overtaking ability and higher speed acceleration when required. Equipment levels etc. will vary across the different markets where the IONIQ 9 is offered. Highlights include, privacy class, power tailgate, heated steering wheel, instrument cluster with 12.3 inch panoramic display, 12.3 inch touchscreen panoramic display with Bluelink, LIVE services and MapCare and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Aut0 for entertainment. At the peak of the range, Nappa leather upholstery and a UVC sterilization tray; also available in a six seat configuration a sliding centre console, offering flexible first-class seating for all passengers and the ability to rotate the second row when parked, transforming the cabin into a social and interactive space.

Certainly with the IONIQ 9, Hyundai has brought luxury to the SUV EV sector of the market.

Ian Lynas