The Hyundai Ioniq 9 has officially arrived in Australia, marking the new flagship of the brand’s electric vehicle lineup. This three-row SUV, born from the striking Hyundai Seven concept, is a direct competitor to other large electric SUVs like the Kia EV9 and Volvo EX90. It’s a statement vehicle for Hyundai, blending immense space and comfort with cutting-edge technology and impressive performance.

For the Australian market, Hyundai is offering a single, top-of-the-line Calligraphy AWD variant. This dual-motor, all-wheel-drive powerhouse delivers a substantial 314 kW of power and a colossal 700 Nm of torque, allowing the Ioniq 9 to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in a swift 5.2 seconds. This makes it a formidable performer, and its high power output surpasses the top-spec Kia EV9 GT.

Powering the Ioniq 9 is a large 110.3 kWh battery pack, which is bigger than the battery in its closest rival, the Kia EV9. This translates to a superior WLTP driving range of up to 600 km, giving drivers added peace of mind on long journeys. The Ioniq 9 is built on the same advanced 800V E-GMP platform as the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6, which enables a DC fast-charging speed of up to 350 kW. This means you can charge from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes when connected to a compatible fast charger. It also comes standard with V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) bi-directional charging.

The Ioniq 9 comes standard with a seven-seat layout, but for an additional $2,000, you can opt for a six-seat configuration. This option swaps out the middle-row bench for two “premium relaxation” captain’s chairs, which offer heating, ventilation, and a powered leg rest. Other features include a sliding center console that can be accessed from the second row and power-folding third-row seats, making the cabin incredibly versatile.

Inside, the Ioniq 9 is a technological marvel. It features a new widescreen curved display integrating a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. The vehicle also comes standard with a head-up display, a 14-speaker Bose sound system, and a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Hyundai’s Digital Key 2. The Ioniq 9 is a compelling flagship that offers a blend of luxury, space, and performance, setting a new benchmark for large electric SUVs in Australia.