The electric vehicle revolution has reached a new pinnacle with the arrival of the 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 9 in Australia. As Hyundai’s most expensive vehicle to date, this flagship three-row electric SUV represents a bold statement in the premium EV segment, challenging established players with its combination of cutting-edge technology, impressive range, and luxurious appointments.
Breaking Price Barriers: Australia’s Premium Electric SUV Market
The IONIQ 9 has officially landed in Australia with a price tag that positions it firmly in the luxury segment. At $119,750 before on-road costs, this seven-seat electric SUV surpasses even Hyundai’s high-performance IONIQ 5 N, which currently retails for $110,383 before on-road costs. This pricing strategy reflects Hyundai’s confidence in delivering a premium product that can compete with established luxury brands in the electric vehicle space.
What makes this pricing particularly interesting is its positioning against the Kia EV9, its most direct rival built on the same E-GMP platform. The EV9’s flagship GT-Line variant is priced at $121,000 before on-road costs, making the IONIQ 9 slightly more affordable while offering comparable features and performance.
Technical Excellence: Power and Performance Specifications
Dual-Motor All-Wheel Drive System
The IONIQ 9 comes exclusively in dual-motor all-wheel drive configuration, delivering impressive performance figures that satisfy both efficiency and driving dynamics. The system combines two 157kW/350Nm electric motors, resulting in a combined output of 314kW and 700Nm of torque. This substantial power delivery enables the large SUV to accelerate from 0-100km/h in just 5.2 seconds, providing sports car-like performance in a family-friendly package.
Advanced Battery Technology and Range
At the heart of the IONIQ 9’s capability lies its substantial 110.3kWh battery pack, which provides an impressive 600km of range according to WLTP testing standards. This range figure addresses one of the primary concerns potential EV buyers have about long-distance travel, making the IONIQ 9 suitable for everything from daily commuting to interstate road trips.
The vehicle’s charging capability is equally impressive, with Hyundai claiming charge times as low as 24 minutes from 10 to 80 percent when using a 350kW DC fast-charger. This rapid charging capability, combined with the substantial range, significantly reduces range anxiety and makes the IONIQ 9 practical for extended travel.
Platform and Engineering: Built on Excellence
The IONIQ 9 utilizes Hyundai Motor Group’s dedicated E-GMP (Electric-Global Modular Platform) architecture, a sophisticated foundation designed specifically for electric vehicles. This platform provides several advantages over converted internal combustion engine platforms, including optimized weight distribution, improved structural rigidity, and enhanced packaging efficiency.
The suspension system features MacPherson struts at the front and a five-link rear setup, complemented by a self-levelling damper system. This advanced suspension technology helps reduce sag when the vehicle is loaded with heavy cargo, maintaining ride quality and handling characteristics regardless of load conditions.
Cutting-Edge Technology and Digital Innovation
Digital Key 2.0: The Future of Vehicle Access
The IONIQ 9 introduces Digital Key 2.0 technology to the Australian market, representing a significant advancement in vehicle access and security. This smartphone-based system uses near-field communication and ultra-wideband technology to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle. The system operates independently of mobile network signals and can function even when a smartphone battery is depleted, depending on the phone type.
The digital key system supports sharing access with up to 15 devices, making it ideal for families or businesses that need to provide vehicle access to multiple users. This technology eliminates the need for physical keys while providing enhanced security and convenience.
Google Places Search Integration
Another technological highlight is the integration of Google Places Search, which allows users to search for destinations using natural language queries. For example, users can search for “restaurants near me” or “petrol stations along route,” and the system will provide relevant results integrated with the vehicle’s navigation system.
Interior Design and Comfort Features
Premium Calligraphy Trim Level
The IONIQ 9 is available exclusively in the top-specification Calligraphy trim level, ensuring every vehicle comes with premium appointments and advanced features. This single-trim approach simplifies the buying process while guaranteeing that all customers receive the full luxury experience.
The standard seven-seat configuration provides flexible seating arrangements suitable for large families or those who regularly transport multiple passengers. For those requiring enhanced second-row comfort, a six-seat configuration is available for an additional $2000, replacing the three-seat bench with individual captain’s chairs.
Cargo Capacity and Practicality
Despite its focus on passenger comfort, the IONIQ 9 offers practical cargo solutions with 338 liters of storage space behind the third row. When the third row is folded, cargo capacity expands to 908 liters, providing substantial space for luggage, shopping, or recreational equipment.
Safety and Driver Assistance
While the IONIQ 9 has yet to undergo testing by ANCAP or Euro NCAP, it comes equipped with comprehensive safety features as standard. The vehicle includes advanced driver assistance systems designed to protect occupants and other road users in various driving scenarios.
The safety equipment package reflects Hyundai’s commitment to providing comprehensive protection in their flagship electric SUV, though specific details about individual safety features await official testing results.
Warranty and Service Support
Comprehensive Coverage
Hyundai backs the IONIQ 9 with a five-year, unlimited-kilometre vehicle warranty, providing peace of mind for owners regardless of their driving patterns. The high-voltage battery receives additional protection with an eight-year, 160,000km warranty, addressing concerns about battery degradation and replacement costs.
Service and Maintenance
Under Hyundai’s Lifetime Service Plan, the IONIQ 9 follows a capped-price servicing schedule. The first service occurs at 24 months or 30,000km and costs $660, with the second service at 48 months or 60,000km costing $685. This predictable service schedule helps owners budget for maintenance costs while ensuring the vehicle receives proper care.
Connected Car Services and Digital Integration
The IONIQ 9 includes a complimentary five-year subscription to Hyundai Bluelink connected car services, which is transferable to subsequent owners within the five-year period. These services enhance the ownership experience by providing remote monitoring, control, and diagnostic capabilities through a smartphone application.
Customization Options and Pricing
Optional Features
While the IONIQ 9 comes comprehensively equipped as standard, several optional features allow owners to personalize their vehicles. Digital exterior mirrors are available for $3000, representing advanced technology that may become more mainstream in future vehicles.
Paint and Finish Options
Customers can choose from various paint finishes, including metallic and pearl options for an additional $750. These finishes include multiple color choices designed to complement the vehicle’s sophisticated styling. For those seeking something more distinctive, matte paint finishes are available for $1000, offering unique aesthetic appeal.
Market Position and Competition
The IONIQ 9 enters a competitive but growing segment of large electric SUVs. Its primary competitor, the Kia EV9, offers similar capabilities but with multiple trim levels and a slightly higher price point for the comparable GT-Line variant. This positioning allows the IONIQ 9 to offer premium features at a competitive price point while maintaining Hyundai’s reputation for value.
The Future of Electric Family Transportation
The 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 9 represents more than just another electric SUV; it embodies Hyundai’s vision for the future of premium family transportation. By combining impressive range, rapid charging capabilities, advanced technology, and luxurious appointments, the IONIQ 9 addresses the key concerns that have traditionally limited electric vehicle adoption.
For Australian families considering the transition to electric vehicles, the IONIQ 9 offers a compelling package that doesn’t require compromising on space, comfort, or capability. While the price point positions it as a premium purchase, the combination of features, technology, and Hyundai’s reputation for reliability makes it a serious contender in the luxury electric SUV segment.
As the electric vehicle market continues to evolve, the IONIQ 9 stands as evidence that electric vehicles can successfully compete with traditional luxury vehicles while offering unique advantages that only electric powertrains can provide. For buyers ready to embrace the future of automotive technology, the IONIQ 9 represents an excellent entry point into premium electric mobility.