The Hyundai IONIQ 9, representing the South Korean manufacturer’s largest, most luxurious and longest-range electric vehicle to date, has officially launched with pricing starting from £64,995. This strategic positioning makes Hyundai’s new flagship significantly more affordable than key rivals, undercutting the Volvo EX90 by £20,000 and costing approximately half the price of the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV.
Interestingly, the IONIQ 9 matches the pricing of its mechanical twin, the Kia EV9, both vehicles sharing the advanced E-GMP platform that also underpins the popular IONIQ 5 crossover and IONIQ 6 saloon.
Premium Specification and Performance Capabilities
The range-topping Calligraphy variant commands £77,595, marking unprecedented territory for Hyundai and establishing it as the brand’s most expensive model ever, surpassing even the traditional Santa Fe. Customer deliveries are scheduled to commence later this summer, giving buyers access to impressive performance credentials including up to 421bhp and a maximum driving range of 385 miles on a single charge.
Strategic Market Positioning and Design Philosophy
The IONIQ 9’s debut at the 2024 Los Angeles Motor Show reflects Hyundai’s strategic focus on the American market, where extensive development work has taken place. As the company’s most overtly premium-focused offering, this electric SUV plays a crucial role in attracting customers from established luxury brands including Audi and BMW.
Executive Confidence in Premium Appeal
Design boss Simon Loasby demonstrates confidence in the vehicle’s premium credentials, emphasizing the exceptional value proposition. “For the amount of money you’re spending, you’re getting an incredibly premium car,” Loasby explained to automotive journalists. He addressed potential brand perception challenges by highlighting the quality of execution and technical content, noting that even Hyundai’s entry-level EVs now demonstrate premium characteristics.
Loasby’s assessment reflects Hyundai’s dramatic transformation from what some critics previously described as a “white goods manufacturer” to a creator of “emotional, desirable, attractive, high-quality vehicles,” particularly evident in models like the IONIQ 6.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will Hyundai IONIQ 9 deliveries begin?
A: Customer deliveries are scheduled to start later this summer following the official launch.
Q: How does the IONIQ 9 compare to German luxury SUV competitors?
A: It’s significantly cheaper than rivals, costing £20,000 less than Volvo EX90 and half the Mercedes EQS SUV price.
Q: What platform does the IONIQ 9 use?
A: The vehicle utilizes Hyundai’s proven E-GMP platform, shared with IONIQ 5, IONIQ 6, and Kia EV9 models.
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