Hyundai Ioniq 9: Three-Row Electric SUV Confirmed for 2026 India Launch

🗓️ Launch Timeline & Market Arrival

• Global Launch: Introduced at the LA Auto Show in November 2024, with production beginning early 2025. Initial markets include South Korea, the U.S., and Europe (theverge.com).
• India Showcase: Debuted at Bharat Mobility Global Expo/Auto Expo in January 2025 (autocarindia.com).
• India Launch: Expected to launch in March 2026, priced around ₹1.20–1.30 Crore ex-showroom (carwale.com).

🧩 Platform & Powertrain Specs

• Chassis: E‑GMP modular platform with both 400V and 800V support, enabling ultra-fast charging (en.wikipedia.org).
• Battery: Single 110.3 kWh NCM lithium-ion pack promising ~620 km WLTP (≈335 miles EPA) range (autocarindia.com).
• Motors & Performance:
  • Long‑Range RWD: Single motor, ~218 hp (160 kW), 0–100 km/h in ~9.4 s (cars24.com).
  • Long‑Range AWD: Dual-motor (≈313 hp), 0–100 km/h ~6.7 s (ru.wikipedia.org).
  • Performance AWD: Dual 218 hp motors (~435 hp), 0–100 km/h in ~5.2 s (en.wikipedia.org).

⚡ Charging & Efficiency

• Fast-charging: Capable of 10 → 80% in ~24 minutes using 350 kW chargers (cars24.com).
• Aerodynamics: Low drag coefficient (Cd ~0.259) with active aero flaps enhances efficiency (wired.com).

🛋️ Interior & Tech Features

• Seating: Luxurious 6/7-seat layouts with fully reclining, massaging first and second rows; swivel second-row seats enhance interaction (theverge.com).
• Cabin Experience: Dual 12.3″ curved displays, panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, Bose audio, V2L capability, and up to 10 airbags with Level‑2 ADAS (autocarindia.com).
• Advanced Systems: AI-powered voice controls, app-driven personalization (via Hyundai’s “Features on Demand”), and OTA software updates (theverge.com).

🌏 Global & Local Strategy

• Production: Built in South Korea and at the new Metaplant in Georgia, USA—Hyundai’s high‑tech EV plant (theverge.com).
• India Plans: While initial focus is global, the Ioniq 9 is slated as a flagship EV model for India in 2026, positioned against premium SUVs such as the Kia EV9, Audi e-tron, and Mercedes EQS SUV (carwale.com).

🎯 Market Positioning & Competitive Landscape

• Segment: Flagship, three-row electric SUV—offering premium comfort, range, and utility.
• Competitors: Globally, it rivals the Kia EV9, Tesla Model X/Y, Volvo EX90, and luxury rivals like Range Rover EVs .
• India Pricing: With a ₹1.2–1.3 Cr price tag, it directly competes with high-end EVs in its segment .

✅ Summary Table

Aspect Details
| Launch  | Global: 2025; India: March 2026 (~₹1.20–1.30 Cr)
| Platform  | E‑GMP (400 V/800 V)
| Battery & Range  | 110.3 kWh; ~620 km WLTP (~335 mi EPA)
| Powertrain Options  | RWD (~218 hp), AWD (~313 hp), Performance AWD (~435 hp)
| Charging  | 350 kW DC, 10→80% in ~24 min
| Interior  | 6/7 seats, massage & swivel second row, dual curved displays, Level‑2 ADAS
| Tech  | OTA, app store, AI voice, V2L, panoramic sunroof, advanced safety suite
| Competitors  | Kia EV9, Tesla Model X/Y, Volvo EX90, Audi e-tron, Mercedes EQS SUV

📌 Final Takeaway

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 is a bold leap for Hyundai into the premium electric SUV space in India. With:

• A cutting-edge 110 kWh E-GMP platform,
• Luxurious cabin with swiveling, massage seats,
• Impressive range, performance, and rapid charging,
• And a projected March 2026 launch at a flagship price—

It’s poised to set a new benchmark in the luxury EV SUV segment. Hyundai’s emphasis on tech innovation, comfort, and utility makes the Ioniq 9 a compelling choice for discerning EV buyers.