Electric 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 9: Three Rows, Lounge Comfort, and Google built-in

Hyundai’s biggest EV yet has finally landed in Australia, and it’s not holding back. The 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 9 is a full-size, three-row electric SUV, and if it looks vaguely familiar, that’s because it shares its bones with the Kia EV9. But make no mistake—this is Hyundai’s own take on the big family EV, and it leans more toward loungey luxury than sporty SUV.

Sitting atop the IONIQ line-up, the Calligraphy AWD is the sole variant on offer for now. It’s priced from $119,750 (MLP) and comes stuffed with just about every feature Hyundai could throw at it. That includes a massive 110.3kWh battery, dual-motor AWD setup producing 314kW and 700Nm, and a claimed WLTP range of 567km (2025 Hyundai IONIQ 9: Three Rows of Electric Space, Lounge Comfort, and Google Onboard

Hyundai’s biggest EV yet has finally landed in Australia, and it’s not holding back. The 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 9 is a full-size, three-row electric SUV, and if it looks vaguely familiar, that’s because it shares its bones with the Kia EV9. But make no mistake—this is Hyundai’s own take on the big family EV, and it leans more toward loungey luxury than sporty SUV.

Sitting atop the IONIQ line-up, the Calligraphy AWD is the sole variant on offer for now. It’s priced from $119,750 (MLP) and comes stuffed with just about every feature Hyundai could throw at it. That includes a massive 110.3kWh battery, dual-motor AWD setup producing 314kW and 700Nm, and a claimed WLTP range of 567km (on 20” wheels). Opt for the smaller 19s (if we ever get them) and Hyundai says it’ll crack up to 600km.

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ABOVE: Hyundai IONIQ 9

Acceleration is brisk for something this large, with 0-100km/h claimed at 5.2 seconds, but the vibe here is more smooth operator than corner-carving weapon. Think electric hotel suite, not Nürburgring taxi.

A Lounge on Wheels (Literally)

The cabin is where Hyundai has poured most of its attention. There’s a calming, minimalist dash anchored by dual 12.3-inch displays plus a separate 5.3” climate screen. Most materials are soft-touch or eco-friendly, and the look is more upmarket than you’d expect from a Hyundai badge—even a pricey one.

The real showstopper is the interior space. Whether you pick the standard 7-seat layout or splash an extra $2,000 for the 6-seat captain’s chair configuration, there’s generous legroom and headroom in all three rows. Those second-row chairs can be had with ottoman-style relaxation mode, and even the third row is passable for adults, if only for short hauls.

The seats are trimmed in quilted Nappa leather, the dash and doors are backlit with ambient lighting, and there’s even UV-C sterilisation in the centre console—ideal for phones, keys or whatever random toddler treasure you find wedged in the cupholders. Hyundai’s “Universal Island” centre console slides back and forth, which is a neat trick, and rear passengers get their own climate controls, USB-Cs, and sunshades.

Google Onboard, Literally

Tech-wise, Hyundai has debuted Google Places Search in the IONIQ 9—a handy new feature that makes finding real-world destinations through the in-car nav a bit less painful. It runs on Hyundai’s new ccNC infotainment platform, which is sharper and faster than before. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are finally included on the big screen (praise be), and over-the-air updates will keep it all fresh.

Other features include an augmented reality head-up display, Digital Key 2.0 (which turns your phone into your car key), fingerprint recognition, a 14-speaker Bose Premium Audio system, and plenty of USB-C ports in all rows.

Safety isn’t overlooked either. The IONIQ 9 includes Hyundai SmartSense 2.0, which adds things like junction AEB, Highway Driving Assist 2, and surround-view monitoring. A full 10 airbags are onboard, including one between the front passengers to stop heads clashing in a side impact.

Charging, Tariffs, and Reality Checks

The big battery supports 800V ultra-rapid charging, so Hyundai claims a 10–80% top-up in 24 minutes—if you can find a charger fast enough. V2L (Vehicle to Load) is included, allowing you to power external devices or even feed electricity back into your home (if you’ve got the right kit).

But there are catches. For one, $119,750 is a lot for a Hyundai, and while it’s well-equipped, you’ll still pay extra for things like Digital Side Mirrors ($3,000), matte paint ($1,000) or even premium pearl/metallic paint ($750). So don’t be surprised to see drive-away prices nudging $130k.

Also, this flagship spec might be too much for some buyers—there’s no base model (yet), and unlike Europe or the US, we only get one variant for now. Whether Hyundai adds cheaper trims down the line remains to be seen.

So, Who’s It For?

The IONIQ 9 makes a compelling case for anyone shopping luxury EV SUVs but not wanting to drop BMW or Mercedes money. It’s huge inside, smooth to drive, and loaded with tech—though it’s not particularly sporty or thrilling.

If you loved the idea of a Kia EV9 GT-Line but prefer your styling subtler and your interior more serene, this might be your ticket. It’s more about electric serenity than EV theatre. Hyundai’s leaning into its premium push here, and while the badge might take a mental leap for some buyers, the product itself is convincing.

It’s a big, bold move—and a sign Hyundai is keen to chase Tesla, BMW, and beyond, one pixel-lit SUV at a time.

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