DRIVING THE 2026 HYUNDAI IONIQ 9 ACROSS SOUTH KOREA! IS THIS THE PERFECT FAMILY SUV?

EV Channels Review

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 makes a strong debut as a spacious and feature-rich family SUV, particularly in its top-tier Calligraphy trim with the all-wheel-drive performance powertrain. The reviewer highlights the ample interior space, especially in the second row with its unique "vibrating" seats, and praises the flat floor enabled by the electric architecture. The vehicle's advanced driver-assistance systems, including smart cruise control with speed camera detection and lane change assist, are noted as safety-focused. A key takeaway is the real-world range test: the Ioniq 9 successfully completed a 260-mile trip in cold weather (32°F) with 11% charge remaining, achieving an impressive efficiency of 4.9 km/kWh (approx. 3 miles/kWh). While the reviewer found the "vibrating" seats unusual, the overall comfort and practicality for road trips are emphasized. Pricing is estimated to be similar to the Kia EV9, starting around $47,000 in Korea, with a US launch expected in Spring 2025.