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.

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.