Hyundai Ioniq 9 Calligraphy boasts a smooth ride, yet falls short in cargo space compared to the Ioniq 5, while the quality of its key fob resembles a budget model.
The Hyundai Ioniq 9, a production-spec SUV that resembles a Volvo design study filtered through 8-bit futurism, has made its way onto the market, offering a unique blend of luxury, technology, and performance.
One of the standout features of the Ioniq 9 is its quiet, composed ride. The steering responds quickly for a vehicle of its size, delivering a luxurious feel. However, some users have reported that the native wireless Android Auto feature can cause their phones to get warm.
The Ioniq 9's design is striking, with a pixel-lit, unapologetically angular appearance that sets it apart from other SUVs. The micro-suede roof liner, while adding to the luxurious feel, has a directional texture that some find messy and obvious.
In terms of cargo space, while the Ioniq 9 offers 21.9 ft³ with all seats up, outperforming the Palisade's 18.0 ft³, the cargo space under the cargo floor is less convenient compared to the Palisade.
When it comes to technology, the Ioniq 9 does not disappoint. It offers Android Auto integration and displays the next turn and distance. The digital camera mirror is at a lower height compared to the previous model, affecting visibility, but the Head-Up Display (HUD) is sharper and shows the curve of the road when using cruise control. The Ioniq 9 also features a fingerprint reader and an eye tracking feature for cruise control.
The Ioniq 9's key fob has been criticized for looking and feeling cheap. The steering wheel controls on the right are more convenient for right-handed drivers, but may be less convenient for left-handed drivers. The Ioniq 9 also comes with a lock button on the tailgate, a feature that was overdue.
The Ioniq 9's sound system is considered fine, better than the Palisade but worse than the 5. The Ioniq 9's top-tier Performance Calligraphy model, equipped with a dual-motor AWD system, outputs ~420 hp/516 lb-ft and can accelerate from 0-60 mph in about 4.9 seconds.
The Ioniq 9's base model starts at approximately $58,955 in the USA, with the midlevel SEL trim costing about $66,320, the Limited trim priced around $71,250, and the top Calligraphy trim starting at $74,990. The Ioniq 9's base single-motor S trim starts around $60,555-60,595, and the top-tier Performance Calligraphy model costs approximately $78,090.
One unique feature of the Ioniq 9 is its massage seat, a comfort feature, but its comfort has not been extensively tested.
Overall, the Hyundai Ioniq 9 offers a unique combination of luxury, technology, and performance, making it a compelling choice for those in the market for a high-end SUV. However, potential buyers should consider the minor drawbacks such as the warm phone issue with the wireless Android Auto and the cheap feel of the key fob.
