Kia EV9 vs. Hyundai Ioniq 7: What‘s the Difference?
The electric vehicle market is heating up with exciting new models coming from established automakers and startups alike. Two upcoming EVs that are generating a lot of buzz are the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 7. Both are slated to arrive in 2024, aiming to compete in the growing midsize electric SUV segment.
As sister brands under the Hyundai Motor Group, Kia and Hyundai often share platforms and technologies across models. However, the EV9 and Ioniq 7 will have distinct designs, features and positioning. Here‘s an in-depth look at how these two electric SUVs compare.
Overview of the Kia EV9
The Kia EV9 is a large electric SUV with a futuristic and modern exterior design. First unveiled as a concept car at the 2021 Los Angeles Auto Show, the production version aims to carry over many of the same styling cues.
At 197 inches long with a 122 inch wheelbase, the EV9 has a commanding presence. The concept model featured a unique "tiger nose" grille flanked by angular headlights and an illuminated light bar that runs the width of the vehicle. Around back, thin LED taillights emphasize the width.
Large 22-inch wheels and minimal front and rear overhangs give the EV9 a capable stance. The overall shape combines flowing curves with sharp edges for visual drama from every angle.
Inside, the EV9 concept highlighted sustainable materials like recycled fishing nets in the floor mats. The production model will offer 6 or 7-seat configurations, with the 6-seat option allowing the second row seats to swivel 180 degrees when parked.
Kia has not revealed full specifications yet, but says the EV9 will have a range of up to 300 miles. Dual electric motors will provide AWD capabilities, with the top trim boasting 400 horsepower. Tech features will include vehicle-to-load charging and over-the-air updates via the Kia Connect store.
Overview of the Hyundai Ioniq 7
Whereas the EV9 takes an athletic and rugged approach, the Ioniq 7 goes for aerodynamic sleekness. Teaser photos reveal a graceful fastback shape, with a sloping roofline and clean, minimalist styling.
At 195 inches long and 81 inches wide, the Ioniq 7 has similar dimensions to the EV9, though with a slightly shorter wheelbase of 132 inches. Simple lines and a full width light bar in back give it a distinctive look.
Hyundai has kept interior details under wraps. We do know the Ioniq 7 is planned as a 5-seat SUV, with available 7-seat capacity. One highlight is the vehicle‘s "cocoon-like" interior design that focuses on sustainability and a "living space" environment. There‘s also an immersive panoramic OLED display on the ceiling.
Performance specs are still to come, but Hyundai says the Ioniq 7 will deliver over 300 miles of range. It will use the company‘s dedicated E-GMP platform tuned for comfort and handling. Dual-motor AWD should provide brisk acceleration.
Head-to-Head Comparison
With both SUVs still in pre-production, complete specs are not available yet. But here‘s how the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 7 seem to stack up so far based on what the automakers have revealed:
Size and Styling
- The EV9 has a more aggressive, truck-inspired look, while the Ioniq 7 is curvier and sleeker.
- Dimensions are very similar, with the Ioniq 7 being slightly smaller.
- The EV9 appears wider and more spacious inside.
Powertrain and Range
- Both offer AWD dual-motor configurations with 300+ miles of range.
- The EV9‘s claimed 400 hp and 5.2 sec 0-60 mph time edges out the Ioniq 7‘s estimated 320 hp.
- Acceleration and torque ratings have not been given for the Ioniq 7 yet.
Interior Features
- The EV9 highlights sustainability through material choices.
- Swiveling second row seats create flexibility in the EV9.
- The Ioniq 7 focuses more on comfort and technology like the panoramic OLED screen.
- It‘s unclear if the Ioniq 7 will offer rotating seats as well.
Tech Offerings
- Over-the-air updates available on both models.
- The EV9 will have Kia‘s Connect store for feature upgrades.
- Hyundai has not detailed tech options for the Ioniq 7 yet.
- Advanced driver assistance systems will be available on both.
Pricing and Availability
- Kia says the EV9 will go on sale in late 2023 as a 2024 model.
- Hyundai delayed the Ioniq 7 to 2025 after initially targeting 2024.
- Estimated starting prices around $60,000 – $70,000 are expected.
While the EV9 and Ioniq 7 share the same underpinnings in some ways, Kia and Hyundai are differentiating them through design, packaging and features. The EV9 leans sporty and rugged, while the Ioniq 7 embraces aerodynamics and an airy interior space. Both represent exciting new entries in the red-hot electric SUV category.
Advantages of the Kia EV9
As the first of the two models to make it to production, the Kia EV9 will have a head start in the marketplace. Here are some of its most promising attributes:
- Cutting-edge style stands out from the crowd. The concept model wowed audiences with its other-worldly design, and it looks like many styling cues will make it to production.
- Roomy interior with flexible seating. The EV9 appears spacious inside, especially in 6-seat mode with the swiveling second row. This allows face-to-face conversations when parked.
- Strong performance credentials. Dual motors and a large battery pack should deliver brisk acceleration and ample range. The 400 hp top trim promises serious power.
- High-tech features. Kia‘s Connect store will allow convenient upgrades over the air. Vehicle-to-load charging expands the EV9‘s functionality.
- Arrives a year sooner. A 2024 launch gives the EV9 a head start against the delayed Ioniq 7. This first mover advantage counts for something.
For buyers who want a head-turning electric SUV with versatile interior space, the Kia EV9 will be alluring. Its funky styling and modern interior make it feel like a vehicle from the future. Performance and technology elements back up the design with substance.
Advantages of the Hyundai Ioniq 7
Although it reaches dealerships later than the EV9, the Ioniq 7 will offer its own set of benefits:
- Sleek and simple exterior styling. Some shoppers will prefer the more subdued look of the Ioniq 7 over the flashier EV9. The smooth shape maximizes aerodynamic efficiency as well.
- Comfort-focused interior. Hyundai has described an interior concept centered around passenger comfort. Unique touches like an overhead OLED screen enhance the lounge-like environment.
- Generous tech features. Hyundai‘s reputation for packing its vehicles full of tech should continue with the Ioniq 7. Expect plenty of screens, ambient lighting and driver assistance systems.
- Brand familiarity. As an established brand, Hyundai may give some buyers peace of mind over the fledgling high-end EV space. The 10 year/100k mile powertrain warranty is also hard to beat.
- Free charging perk. For early adopters who order before the end of 2023, Hyundai is offering 2 years of 30 minute free charging sessions. This provides savings and convenience.
Hyundai seems to be targeting a different kind of customer with the Ioniq 7. It prioritizes smooth, elegant design and a relaxing interior environment overflowing with tech conveniences. For some buyers, that combination will be more appealing than the sportier ambiance of the EV9.
5 Key Differences
To recap, here are 5 of the most important distinctions between the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 7:
- Exterior styling – The EV9 is bold and futuristic, while the Ioniq 7 has a subtler streamlined look.
- Interior focus – The EV9 highlights flexible/sustainable materials, and the Ioniq 7 provides extreme comfort and technology.
- Performance – The EV9 should be a bit quicker, with an estimated 400 hp and 5.2 second 0-60 mph time.
- Availability – The EV9 comes first, expected in 2024. Hyundai moved the Ioniq 7 launch back to 2025.
- Charging offer – Hyundai is providing 2 years of 30 minute free charging sessions for early Ioniq 7 buyers. Kia has no similar promotion for the EV9 yet.
Which Is the Better Buy?
On paper, both the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 7 look compelling as affordable electric SUV options. But which one presents the better value once they hit dealer showrooms?
It‘s impossible to declare a definitive winner this far in advance of either vehicle going on sale. However, we can make some educated predictions based on what we know so far:
- The EV9 likely wins on styling. Its concept car looks are stunning, and it should stand out from the crowd in the sea of crossover SUVs. Hyundai‘s exterior styling looks elegant but less eye-catching.
- The Ioniq 7 may have an edge on interior luxury. Its focus on comfort over sportiness gives it a chance to provide a more premium cabin environment. The overhead OLED screen is also a unique perk if it makes it to production.
- Performance seems close, but the EV9 looks quicker on paper. Both offer AWD and 300+ mile range, but the EV9 boasts a higher horsepower claim.
- Value favors the Ioniq 7. While pricing isn‘t set yet, if it indeed starts around $50,000 as rumored, that significantly undercuts the EV9. And the free charging offer adds more savings.
Of course, once these SUVs actually enter production, the picture could change based on their final specs, prices and reviews. But purely speculating here, it looks like the EV9 brings more excitement, while the Ioniq 7 offers better bang for your buck.
For shoppers who prioritize interior amenities and the latest tech gadgets, the Hyundai Ioniq 7 may be the smarter pick. But buyers wanting a head-turning style statement will find it hard to resist the dramatic looks of the Kia EV9. There‘s a good chance both become sales hits in the growing electric SUV marketplace.
The Outlook for Kia and Hyundai‘s Upcoming EVs
Kia and Hyundai have steadily expanded their electric vehicle lineups over the past few years, but the EV9 and Ioniq 7 represent their biggest steps yet into the EV mainstream. These family-hauling electric SUVs will aim to compete with the likes of the Tesla Model X, Rivian R1S, Cadillac Lyriq and other rivals.
Early buzz for both models is strong, buoyed by the brands‘ reputations for value and their eye-catching concept reveals. The SUV body style remains as popular as ever with American car shoppers. An electric powertrain provides the modern appeal buyers want.
Pricing in the $60,000 ballpark positions the EV9 and Ioniq 7 as logical alternatives to gas-guzzling SUVs from luxury makes like Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz. While not cheap, they deliver similar space and technology for far less money.
Out of the gate, the funky style of the Kia EV9 may resonate most strongly with buyers looking for something different. Its love-it-or-hate-it looks are sure to generate plenty of buzz. But the elegant Hyundai Ioniq 7 will hold broader appeal to the masses seeking a comfortable tech-laden cruiser.
If these two Korean automakers can continue building out their EV model lines while keeping prices down, they are poised to become major players in the electric vehicle revolution. For now, the EV9 and Ioniq 7 look to get them off on the right foot.
Buying Advice
Should you plan on buying either of these upcoming electric SUVs? Here are some closing recommendations:
Kia EV9
The Kia EV9 makes sense for:
- Shoppers who want a head-turning, futuristic style that stands out
- Families who can make use of its flexible 6-seat interior configuration
- Drivers who value strong acceleration and performance
- Tech-savvy buyers excited about over-the-air upgrades
But you may want to wait if:
- Your budget can‘t accommodate a $60,000+ vehicle
- You prefer a more subdued exterior design
- You want the latest driver assistance and infotainment tech
Hyundai Ioniq 7
The Hyundai Ioniq 7 is a good match for:
- Buyers desiring the latest comfort and technology features
- Families needing generous passenger and cargo space
- Shoppers who like the sleek, aerodynamic styling
- Drivers wanting a premium interior under luxury brand prices
But it may not be for you if:
- You want higher performance capabilities
- You need 3 rows of seating
- You prefer a bolder, more daring exterior design
- You don‘t want to wait until 2025 for its release
For some buyers, choosing between the EV9 and Ioniq 7 will be tough. Their differences in styling, performance and features give them unique personalities. Test driving each once available will help identify which is the better fit. But either one looks primed to win over shoppers seeking affordable electric SUV transportation in an attractive package.