Hyundai Ioniq 9 vs Kia EV9: Electric SUV Showdown Revealed
Hyundai Ioniq 9 vs Kia EV9: Which Electric SUV Reigns Supreme?
The long-awaited Hyundai Ioniq 9 has finally made its debut, and it’s a beautiful sight to behold. With its modern design, comfortable interior, and impressive features, it’s no surprise that many are excited about its arrival. But what about its sibling, the Kia EV9? Will it be able to steal the show, or is the Ioniq 9 the true champion in the world of electric SUVs?
Design
Both the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and the Kia EV9 are good-looking vehicles, but with some notable differences. While the Kia EV9 boasts a more angular design with sharp lines and a sleek profile, the Ioniq 9 is characterized by its curvy body and rounded roofline. The Kia EV9 also features a distinctive "Digital Tiger Face" front fascia, while the Ioniq 9’s front grille is more straightforward. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference.
Winner: Tie
Interior and tech
The Hyundai Ioniq 9 and the Kia EV9 both boast spacious and comfortable interiors. The Ioniq 9’s second-row seats can rotate to face each other, creating a cozy atmosphere, while the EV9’s seats are less versatile. However, both vehicles offer ample storage space and feature-rich infotainment systems. The Hyundai Ioniq 9’s dual-display setup, complete with CarPlay and Android Auto support, is a standout feature.
Winner: Tie
Performance
The Kia EV9 is the clear winner in terms of performance, with its 501-hp variant capable of accelerating from 0-60 mph in just 4.3 seconds. In contrast, the Hyundai Ioniq 9’s Performance AWD variant is slower, taking 5.2 seconds to hit 60 mph. While the Ioniq 9’s base model offers a more affordable option, the EV9’s stronger performance is hard to overlook.
Winner: Kia EV9
Range and charging
The Hyundai Ioniq 9 boasts a longer range than the Kia EV9, with a minimum range of 300 miles and an optional 335-mile range. In contrast, the Kia EV9’s range tops out at 280 miles, although its lower-priced variants offer slightly less range. Both vehicles feature 800-volt charging architecture and support speeds of up to 350kW.
Winner: Hyundai Ioniq 9
Pricing and availability
The Kia EV9 is currently the only vehicle available in this segment, with a starting price of $54,900. The Hyundai Ioniq 9 has been announced, but is not yet available for purchase. While we expect it to debut in the first half of 2025, pricing has not been officially confirmed.
Winner: Kia EV9
Overall winner: Kia EV9
While the Hyundai Ioniq 9 is an impressive vehicle in its own right, the Kia EV9 is the clear winner in this comparison. Its stronger performance, more affordable pricing, and current availability make it the better choice for buyers in the market for an electric SUV. However, when the Ioniq 9 does arrive, it will be worth comparing the two vehicles once again to see which one comes out on top.
