We knew in 2021 that Hyundai was going to bring a three-row EV to market. Now, after three long years, we finally get to see the production model. This week, the automaker revealed the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 ahead of the LA Auto Show, and it’s packed with cool tech and clever features.
No, it doesn’t look like any other Hyundai currently on the market. That’s on purpose. With its chess piece design strategy, Hyundai first looks at how a customer would use the vehicle then builds the vehicle to suit that specific need. The focus with Ioniq 9 is family, so you’ll see comfortable passenger space and lots of storage.
[Related video: First look at the new 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 with striking styling]
So, where does the Hyundai Ioniq 9 fall on the chess board? Simon Loasby, senior vice president of design says, unequivocally, it’s the king.
Here are the five things you need to know about Hyundai’s new flagship EV.
Standard with NACS
Hyundai announced in 2023 that it would move to the North American Charging Standard (NACS) – aka the Tesla charging network. The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 will be its first vehicle produced out of the gate with the NACS charge port. This will give customers access to more than 17k Tesla Superchargers.
In terms of the family focus: This means road trips just got a little more stress free because owners won’t have to worry about finding one of the less frequent CCS chargers. However, Hyundai said it will be providing CCS converters to customers as well, so owners will have the best of both worlds.
300+ mile range
Even with the promise of access to the Tesla Supercharger network, range anxiety is real. That’s why Hyundai is targeting more than 300 miles of all-electric range on all trims of the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9.
To be clear, not every vehicle will get more than 300 miles of range, but the long-range capability will be available in every trim. The powertrains will consist of a long-range RWD model with a 160 kW rear motor that delivers 215 horsepower, a long-range AWD model with a 70 kW front motor and 160 kW rear motor that deliver 303 horsepower, and a performance AWD model with 160 kW front and rear motors that deliver a combined 422 horsepower.
Clever storage spaces
As a family, you will see a lot of storage capability throughout the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9. From the 21.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row for strollers and luggage to the small front trunk (aka frunk – or froot if you’re British). There are pockets and cup holders galore, but my favorite storage space has to be the sliding center console that can be access from both the first and second rows and has a drawer facing the second row for stowing extra stuff. There is even a small underfloor storage space for a cargo cover and your charging cords behind the third row.
Features on Demand
In addition to over-the-air (OTA) updates for safety and software features, Hyundai is launching a new suite of downloads for your vehicle called “Features on Demand.” Initially this will include gauge cluster themes and exterior lighting signature options. But, eventually, this will include things like gaming and streaming music. Hyundai hasn’t defined exactly what all is coming, but it has said it will be based on customer demand.
Available in spring 2025
Hyundai confirmed this would be a 2026 model, and execs stated production would begin in the spring of 2025 and would be available shortly after that. Additionally, the Hyundai Ioniq 9 will be assembled at the Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America in Georgia, and therefore, it will likely qualify for the $7,500 federal tax credit, if it is still in play with the new administration.
Though pricing information will be available closer to launch, it’s worth noting that the base price for the Kia EV9 is about $58k. So, we expect the new three-row from Hyundai to be priced just less than $60k.
The bottom line
The new 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 has a lot going for it. The unique design will set it apart from the more traditional three-row SUV, and the spacious interior with clever storage and relaxation seats is set to win over the entire family.
2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 photo gallery
Jill Ciminillo
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