The counterpart to the Kia EV9 and a rival to the Volvo EX90, the brand’s flagship model and its largest yet was previewed as the Seven concept three years ago, again at the LA Auto Show, and stays faithful to many of the original design cues.
Based on the same Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) as the Ioniq 5 and 6, and featuring the same bold styling and pixel lighting, the luxury SUV was originally intended to bear Ioniq 7 branding but has now shifted up the ladder to become the Ioniq 9, allowing other new models to sit under it.
Three different powertrains will be available, all fitted with the same floor-mounted 110.3kWh battery.
The Long-Range RWD model is powered by a 218hp rear motor and gets the headline WLTP range figure of 385 miles when fitted with 19-inch wheels. It’s able to deliver the 0-62mph dash in 9.4 seconds.
The Long-Range AWD alternative gains an extra 95hp front motor, cutting range but bringing the 0-62mph time down to 6.7 seconds.
The top-rung Performance AWD models have 218hp motors front and rear and take just 5.2 seconds to accelerate from 0-62mph.
The 400V/800V E-GMP architecture enables superfast charging times that can deliver a 10 to 80% recharge in 24 minutes. As with its other Ioniq counterparts and the Kia EV line-up, the Ioniq 9 also has vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability with a V2L port in the cargo area that allows users to power devices via a standard power outlet using the EV’s battery.
Boasting ‘Aerosthetic’ styling and futuristic design elements including streamlined roof and flush surfaces, the Ioniq 9 stands out for its bold styling, echoed in interior with a panoramic curved display, floating dashboard, slim air vents and ambient lighting.
The cabin has been conceived to create a lounge-like atmosphere with light flooding through the panoramic sunroof and can be configured with up to seven seats. These include ‘Relaxation Seats’ in the first and second rows able to fully recline and kitted out with a Dynamic Body Care system that includes a massage function.
The Ioniq 9 also introduces second-row Swivelling Seats, allowing the rear occupants to face each other when the vehicle is stationary.