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Hyundai just pulled the wraps off its latest electric flagship, the Ioniq 9. This three-row SUV is the third model in the automaker’s retro-futuristic EV lineup, following the Ioniq 5 and 6. While the 9 comes loaded with throwback vibes—like pivoting bucket seats—it’s what lies under the skin that will really get EV fans talking. Spoiler: it’s all about efficiency and charging speeds.

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 is as retro as it is practical

At first glance, the Ioniq 9 looks like something out of a mid-century modern dream. Its low ride height, flat floor, and boxy rear end scream vintage minivan—if minivans had Lamborghini-like proportions. The pixelated lighting (borrowed from the Ioniq 5) adds a futuristic touch, while clever black-painted wheel openings create the illusion of more aggressive styling.

Inside, the Ioniq 9 stays retro where it counts. The second-row seats swivel around to face the third-row—a feature that recalls the iconic camper vans of the ‘70s and ‘80s. Hyundai is leaning into this feature for the EV era, giving passengers a way to relax, chat, or even work while waiting at charging stations. The brand also stays old-school where it matters most: keeping physical buttons and knobs for critical controls. No scrolling through touchscreens to turn up the heat or defrost your windshield—thank goodness.

What sets the Ioniq 9 apart?

The Ioniq 9 doesn’t just look the part—it’s also built for EV road warriors. It uses Hyundai’s groundbreaking 800-volt system (a fancy way of saying it can charge incredibly fast). Hooked up to the fastest chargers, Hyundai estimates the Ioniq 9 can go from 10% to 80% charge in just 24 minutes. That’s not just convenient; it’s future-proof in a world where crowded charging stations are becoming the norm.

Hyundai Ioniq 9 EV driving on a country road
2025 Hyundai Ioniq 9 | Hyundai

But fast charging is only half the battle—efficiency is the other piece of the puzzle. Hyundai’s Ioniq 9, in its single-motor, rear-wheel-drive form, may achieve 3.5 miles per kWh of electricity. That would put its estimated range at 385 miles from a 110-kWh battery. For reference, that’s more efficient than its sibling, the three-row Kia EV9 (which averages 2.9 miles per kWh).

In real-world road-tripping terms, the Ioniq 9 could rival the best in its class for miles driven per minute of charging. That’s what matters when you’re trying to get from point A to B with as few pit stops as possible.

The bottom line

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 is more than just a head-turner with pivoting bucket seats. It’s a high-tech road-tripper built to thrive in the EV era, balancing impressive charging times with smart efficiency. Whether you’re after a rolling lounge or a long-distance rig, this SUV might be the sweet spot.

Ready to upgrade? See listings for new Hyundai EVs near you.

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Staff Writer

Henry Cesari

Henry Cesari joined MotorBiscuit in 2021 and brings his deep interest in vintage cars, trucks, and motorcycles to the site. Having restored his first classic car at just 16 years old, Henry has wrenched on everything from overland campers to Japanese motorcycles and even pre-war Bugattis. Henry is also an avid attendee at local car shows and genuinely enjoys connecting with fellow auto enthusiasts.

Henry earned a Bachelor’s in Anthropology and English from the University of Vermont. He has since incorporated his love of the written word with his admiration of classic cars. While Henry is interested in vintage cars, he believes the golden age of cars is yet to come. He is confident journalists will play an important role in this revolution by exposing the industry as it is now and envisioning its possible future.