Hyundai has officially launched its all-new flagship electric SUV, the IONIQ 9, in South Korea, setting the stage for a U.S. debut in 2025. As the largest EV in Hyundai’s lineup, the IONIQ 9 brings best-in-class interior space, a massive 110.3 kWh battery, and cutting-edge tech designed to compete with the Kia EV9 and Rivian R1S.
With pre-orders open and deliveries starting soon in Korea, the big question remains: how will Hyundai price the IONIQ 9 in the U.S.?
How Much Will It Cost?
In South Korea, the IONIQ 9 starts at around $41,000 (with incentives) for the base seven-seater “Exclusive” trim and goes up to $54,500 for the top-tier “Calligraphy” six-seater. Given that the Kia EV9 starts at around $54,900 in the U.S., many are speculating that the IONIQ 9 could land closer to $60,000.
On Reddit’s r/electricvehicles, users debated whether Hyundai will follow Kia’s aggressive pricing strategy. One user pointed out that they got their EV9 for $60,000 after incentives, despite an original MSRP of $74,900. Some believe Hyundai will need to match or beat Kia’s deals to make the IONIQ 9 competitive.
A Bold Design That’s Dividing Opinions
The IONIQ 9 is larger than the EV9 (199.2″ long vs. 197.2″) and features a bold, boxy design that has sparked mixed reactions online. Some EV fans love the futuristic styling, while others think the rear looks a bit “hearse-like.”
One Redditor commented, “It looks better in darker colors,” while another added, “Would sell butt loads if it was the same price as the Kia.” Others compared its shape to vehicles like the Pontiac Vibe or Acura ZDX, highlighting its unique but polarizing appearance.
Tech, Range, and Charging
The IONIQ 9 runs on Hyundai’s E-GMP platform and boasts a massive 330-mile range (Korean rating). It features a 400/800V dual charging system, meaning it can go from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes using a 350 kW charger. Inside, drivers will find a panoramic curved infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens, premium seating options, and available swivel seats for a lounge-like experience.
Dealership Drama and Availability
Some early reports suggest that dealership markups may become an issue. A Redditor shared that their local dealer required a $5,000 non-refundable deposit to secure an IONIQ 9, with no custom orders available until 2026. Many EV enthusiasts expressed frustration, worried that early demand could drive up prices.
With Hyundai planning to build the IONIQ 9 at its new Georgia EV plant alongside the updated IONIQ 5, U.S. buyers should see availability by Spring 2025. The SUV will also come with a native NACS port, allowing seamless access to Tesla’s Supercharger network.
Final Thoughts
The IONIQ 9 is shaping up to be a serious contender in the three-row electric SUV market. With more space, longer range, and Hyundai’s latest tech, it has the potential to steal buyers from the EV9 and Rivian R1S.
Now, all eyes are on Hyundai’s U.S. pricing strategy—will they undercut Kia, or will dealership markups make it harder for buyers to get their hands on one?
