Discover the Hyundai IONIQ 9: A Game-Changer in Electric Vehicles
- Alain Kuhn Von Kuhnenfeld
- May 20
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 2
An Awe-Inspiring Drive in British Columbia
On British Columbia's west coast, Hyundai Canada recently invited us to drive the new Hyundai IONIQ 9 in Ucluelet, Vancouver Island. We respectfully acknowledge this land as unceded territory, long stewarded by Indigenous peoples for generations. Hyundai and its partners recognize and appreciate this history, as we experienced firsthand the beauty of this coast. It is truly a stunning destination. The journey to get there even included a seaplane ride. You really have to appreciate the skill and precision of the pilot during takeoff and landing on the water!
Design That Makes a Statement
Our first encounter with the Hyundai IONIQ 9 was captivating, even at this staged event. The vehicle's unique design may polarize buyers, but it makes a bold statement. Unlike most vehicles emphasizing the front end, the IONIQ 9 stands out due to its remarkable rear design. The lighting signature, distinctive to the IONIQ family, is a dazzling display of numerous small LEDs at both front and rear.
Hyundai's engineers have prioritized efficiency as well. They achieved a fantastic 0.269 drag coefficient, maximizing the vehicle's range.
Convenience of Modern Charging
As Canada's first electric vehicle equipped with the new NACS (Tesla) charging port, the IONIQ 9 simplifies charging. Hyundai even provides a free adapter for the CCS/Combo charging standard, making the transition to electric as easy as possible.
Impressive Cabin Comfort and Technology
The IONIQ 9's cabin is impressive. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim offers high-quality materials and plush seating that rivals Hyundai's luxury division, Genesis. The interior features intuitive buttons paired with modern screens, ensuring an easy user experience for both drivers and passengers.
Amenities abound in this electric marvel. It includes heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a panoramic sunroof. Plus, the second and third-row seats fold down for effortless cargo space adjustments. Speaking of which, the IONIQ 9 outshines its gas-powered sibling, the Palisade, by offering up to 1,323L of storage when the third row is folded down.
Exceptional Range for Any Adventure
On the road, Hyundai's latest EV continues to impress. Let's discuss range first. With its substantial 110.3 kWh battery pack, the IONIQ 9 offers up to 539 km, depending on the trim. This range is remarkable for such a large vehicle and a significant upgrade over the Kia EV9 we tested last year. This substantial range inspires confidence for long journeys, making the IONIQ 9 a reliable choice for any adventure. The version we tested, the Calligraphy, claims a range of 500km. Some of my colleagues even exceeded that announced range.
Unmatched Ride Quality
But the real standout feature is the ride quality. The IONIQ 9 offers a smoother and more stable ride compared to its rivals. Driving it delivers a genuinely luxurious experience, proving that Hyundai is pushing the boundaries of what a mass-market EV can be. It remains planted and composed, even in high-speed corners, with minimal body roll. The steering is perfectly weighted, instilling confidence and precision in every situation.
Conclusion: The Hyundai IONIQ 9 is a Smart Investment
In short, the Hyundai IONIQ 9 stands out as a superb, versatile three-row electric vehicle. Starting at just $59,999, it delivers exceptional value, likely making it Hyundai's best vehicle yet. This price point—combined with its impressive features and performance—makes the IONIQ 9 a smart investment for any car buyer. Although our time behind the wheel was brief, we are eager to submit a full review and truly test the capabilities of this remarkable vehicle.
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