Automotive Business Magazine – Q2 2026 – Digital edition - Magazine - Page 51
1,600 kg, while all-wheel-drive variants can
manage up to 2,500 kg, depending on market
regulations. Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality
is included, allowing the car’s battery to power
external devices – from camping equipment to
power tools – effectively turning it into a large
mobile power bank.
Inside, the Ioniq 9 leans into its role as a
lounge-on-wheels. Buyers can choose six- or
seven-seat configurations depending on trim and
market. The flat floor, courtesy of the dedicated
EV platform, creates generous legroom across all
three rows.
The second row can be specified with relaxation
seats in higher trims, and in some markets swivel
functionality is available, allowing passengers to
face rearward when parked. Hyundai’s 'Universal
Island 2.0' centre console slides by up to 190 mm,
improving access and flexibility between rows.
Boot space stands at around 338 litres with
all three rows in place. Fold the third row and
capacity increases significantly, and with
both rear rows folded flat, total cargo space
approaches 2,400 to 2,500 litres depending on
seating configuration.
Up front, twin 12.3-inch displays handle
digital instrumentation and infotainment duties.
Materials focus on sustainability themes alongside
a clean, minimalist layout. Ambient lighting and
soft-touch finishes give the cabin a distinctly
premium feel.
On the Road
Despite its size, the Ioniq 9 feels composed and
secure rather than unwieldy. The low-mounted
battery lowers the centre of gravity, improving
stability through bends. Ride comfort is a priority,
and it shows – this is tuned for refinement over
outright sportiness.
Acceleration is immediate and silent, particularly
in the dual-motor versions. The cabin remains
hushed at motorway speeds, and the long
wheelbase contributes to a smooth, settled ride.
It is, however, undeniably large. Urban
manoeuvring requires awareness, and while
cameras and sensors help, tight European streets
are not its natural habitat.
Verdict
The Hyundai Ioniq 9 represents a significant step
in the maturation of electric SUVs. It combines
meaningful long-range capability, rapid charging,
serious towing capacity, and genuine seven-seat
practicality – all wrapped in distinctive, forwardlooking design.
It is not inexpensive. Nor is it small. But for
buyers seeking a fully electric family vehicle
that doesn’t compromise on space, tech or
performance, this stands as one of the most
technically complete offerings in its class.
Hyundai Ioniq 9
Fleet Focus
TCO – Total Cost of Ownership
Capital Cost: The Ultimate AWD model has an
OTR price of approximately £72,885.
Tax Benefits: As a pure EV with 0g/km CO2,
it qualifies for a Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) rate of
3%, rising to 4% in 2026/27.
Residual Value: Electric SUVs in this class are
holding value well, though TCO tools suggest
an estimated total five-year cost significantly
lower than premium PHEV rivals due to tax
and fuel savings.
Fuel Efficiency
Efficiency: The official WLTP consumption is
rated at 3.0–3.1 miles/kWh.
Range: The 110kWh battery provides an official
range of up to 385 miles. Ultimate AWD
version is typically closer to 330–370 miles.
Daily Cost: Charging at a business rate
of roughly 24p/kWh, a 'full tank' costs
approximately £26.40 – roughly 7p per mile.
Maintenance Cost
Warranty: 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty.
Battery Warranty: 8-Year / 100,000-mile High
Voltage Battery Warranty.
Perks: Includes five years of Annual Vehicle
Health Checks and 12 years of AntiPerforation Warranty.
Downtime
Support: Includes Hyundai Roadside
Assistance.
Charging Speed: 800V architecture allows for
ultra-fast charging (10% to 80% in 24 minutes
using a 350kW charger).
Updates: Supports Over-the-Air (OTA) updates.
Safety
Safety Rating: 5-Star Euro NCAP rating. 84%
score for adult and 87% for child protection.
Standard Tech: Forward Collision-Avoidance
(FCA 2.0), Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance, and
Highway Drive Assist (HDA 2.0).
Insurance: IONIQ 9 Ultimate AWD is typically
in Insurance Group 42 due to high-tech
components and premium positioning.
