In the dynamic world of electric vehicles, the sibling rivalry between Kia and Hyundai's three-row electric SUVs, the EV9 and Ioniq 9, presents a compelling case study. While sharing a foundational platform, these models exhibit distinct market performances and feature sets. This report scrutinizes their sales figures, delves into their performance capabilities and range, examines their interior amenities and spaciousness, and finally, evaluates their pricing structures to offer a comprehensive perspective on which model delivers greater overall value. Understanding these nuances is crucial for consumers navigating the expanding electric SUV landscape.

Detailed Analysis: Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9 in the Electric SUV Arena

As the automotive industry pivots towards electrification, two prominent South Korean manufacturers, Kia and Hyundai, continue to impress with their record-breaking sales figures. Both brands, renowned for sharing underlying platforms and technological innovations, now find themselves in a fascinating head-to-head battle within the burgeoning three-row electric SUV segment. The Kia EV9 has surprisingly surpassed its Hyundai counterpart, the Ioniq 9, in recent sales, prompting a deeper dive into what sets these two electric family haulers apart.

A recent market assessment revealed that the Kia EV9 significantly outperformed the Hyundai Ioniq 9 in sales during August 2025. The EV9 recorded an impressive 2,679 units sold, marking its best monthly performance to date and a substantial 54% increase from the previous month. This brought its year-to-date sales to 9,354 units. In contrast, the Hyundai Ioniq 9 sold 1,016 units in August, contributing to a total of 3,102 units since its introduction in May 2025. While the Ioniq 9's later market entry somewhat explains its lower cumulative sales, the disparity in monthly figures highlights the EV9's current market momentum, especially considering Hyundai's general dominance in EV sales with models like the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6.

From a performance and range perspective, the Hyundai Ioniq 9 appears to hold a slight edge. Both models offer a standard single-motor, rear-wheel-drive configuration, with the EV9 delivering 215 horsepower and an additional 201-hp RWD variant focused on extended range. The dual-motor, all-wheel-drive setup boosts the EV9's output to 379 horsepower, achieving a 0-60 mph time as low as five seconds. However, the Ioniq 9's top-tier version boasts 422 horsepower, suggesting a quicker acceleration. While Kia plans to introduce a more powerful EV9 GT model with approximately 570 horsepower, currently, the Ioniq 9 offers more potent options. In terms of range, the EV9's EPA estimates vary between 230 and 304 miles depending on the trim. Hyundai's own projections for the Ioniq 9 are more optimistic, ranging from 311 to 335 miles, attributed to its larger battery capacity.

Stepping inside, both electric SUVs present futuristic and spacious cabins brimming with technology and features. While some cost-saving plastics are present, the overall material quality is commendable. Both vehicles come standard with seating for seven, with an optional six-seater layout. Shared standard features include dual 12.3-inch displays for infotainment and instrumentation, heated front seats, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The Kia EV9 differentiates itself with standard tri-zone climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, ventilated front seats, and a powered liftgate, which are optional on the Hyundai Ioniq 9's base models. However, the Ioniq 9's premium Calligraphy trims offer a more luxurious ambiance with two-tone leather and a microfiber suede headliner. In terms of passenger and cargo space, both provide generous third-row legroom (up to 32 inches) and second-row legroom (42.8 inches). The Ioniq 9 slightly leads in cargo capacity, offering 86.9/46.7/21.9 cubic feet behind the first/second/third rows, compared to the EV9's 81.7/43.5/20.2 cubic feet, thanks to its marginally longer wheelbase and body.

Regarding pricing, the Kia EV9 generally offers a more accessible entry point. The EV9's pricing begins at $54,900 for the Light RWD, escalating through various trims to $71,900 for the GT-Line AWD. In contrast, the Hyundai Ioniq 9 starts at a higher $58,955 for the S trim, with its top-tier Calligraphy Design reaching $76,490. It's also important to note that both models qualify for a $7,500 EV tax credit, though this incentive is set to expire by the end of September.

The current market landscape reveals the Kia EV9's strong appeal, particularly due to its compelling value proposition. It offers a rich array of standard features, ample space, and competitive performance at a more attractive price point. However, for those willing to invest more, the Hyundai Ioniq 9, especially its higher trims, delivers superior power, extended range, and a more refined interior, justifying its higher cost. Therefore, the ultimate choice between these two impressive electric SUVs largely hinges on the buyer's budget and their prioritization of value versus premium features and performance. For budgets up to around $65,000, the Kia EV9 stands out as the prudent choice, while those with a spending capacity nearing $75,000 might find the Hyundai Ioniq 9 to be the more rewarding option.