The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 is set to redefine luxury in the electric vehicle market. Unlike its expected counterpart, the Kia EV9, the Ioniq 9 boasts a distinct and sophisticated interior, featuring high-end materials and advanced technology. One of its standout features is the NACS charge style port, allowing access to over 17,000 Tesla charging stations. Additionally, the Ioniq 9 includes Hyundai Pay and a phone-as-key system, enabling drivers to operate the car and share access via text. The innovative design includes a unique front bumper compartment, known as the cassette, which houses much of the vehicle's cutting-edge technology.

Inside, the Ioniq 9 offers a spacious and luxurious experience. The interior is adorned with leatherette made from recycled plastics, contributing to its sustainable design. The calligraphy edition—the top-tier model—features an ultra-suede headliner and elegant metal accents. The vehicle's design language, inspired by Hyundai's pixel design seen first in the Ioniq 5, incorporates the Morse code "H" as a unique Easter egg. Practical features include a sliding center console, numerous charge ports, and a single glass panel housing the touchscreen and driver display. With its combination of luxury, technology, and sustainability, the Hyundai Ioniq 9 is poised to make a significant impact in the EV market when it launches in Spring of 2025.

Read more on Forbes:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/scottyreiss/2024/12/16/2026-hyundai-ioniq-9-one-step-closer-to-hyundais-electric-dreams/

For more from Scotty Reiss:
https://agirlsguidetocars.com/

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It might not be obvious to the average car buyer why Hyundai is staying the course with its EV strategy, but to the company, the mission is crystal clear: tapping the affinity of ‘early majority’ adopters. That’s where brands pull ahead in a race.

To get there, Hyundai rolled out its newest EV, the Ioniq 9, at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November. The reception was stellar; the two models on displa