2025 HYUNDAI IONIQ 9 VS KIA EV9 SIBLING RIVALRY COMPARISON PART 1

EV Channels Review

The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 9 is presented as a compelling, well-equipped, and impressively priced three-row electric SUV, positioned as a strong contender against its sibling, the Kia EV9. The reviewer highlights the Ioniq 9's attractive design, larger sunroof, and a more user-friendly interior layout with physical buttons for essential functions, which are praised over the EV9's. Performance is noted as ample for highway driving, with the top-tier Calligraphy AWD model boasting 429 horsepower. Real-world highway range testing in ideal summer conditions exceeded the rated 500 km, achieving as low as 20 kWh/100km. However, charging experiences were mixed, with issues encountered at Electrify Canada stations using a CCS adapter due to the car's native NACS port, and slower-than-expected speeds at a Tesla Supercharger. The reviewer commends Hyundai for the vehicle's luxury feel, comfort, and advanced driver-assistance systems, particularly the Highway Driving Assist 2, which allowed for extended hands-free driving. Despite not testing winter range, the overall verdict is highly positive, emphasizing its value proposition against luxury competitors.