Upcoming Hyundai IONIQ 9 to Closely Resemble SEVEN Concept
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 will soon have a big brother. The Korean automaker has confirmed that the world premiere of the all-new IONIQ 9 three-row electric SUV will take place in November, likely at the Los Angeles Auto Show.
A few teaser sketches were released this week to whet our appetite, and they hint at a production model that closely resembles—at least on the outside—the Hyundai SEVEN concept (pictured above) that was unveiled three years ago.
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The IONIQ 9’s so-called ‘Aerosthetic’ design evokes the sleek exteriors and spacious, cozy interiors of luxury boats, the company says. The long, curved roofline meets with a nearly flat and upright rear hatch, while the character lines on the sides are inspired by the diagonal lines of the traditional Korean clothing, Hanbok.
The multi-spoke wheels promise to be way more attractive than those on the SEVEN concept. Up front, the ‘Paramatric Pixels’ motif—Hyundai’s signature lighting design for electric vehicles—shows up again.
By the way, the IONIQ 9 will ride on the same Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) as the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6, not to mention the similarly sized Kia EV9. Powertrain and battery options are expected to be shared with the latter. Production will start in 2025 at Hyundai’s brand new Metaplant America in Georgia.
To be clear, this will be the largest and roomiest EV sold by Hyundai, and the decision to call it IONIQ 9 suggests that at least one future model—possibly an IONIQ 7—will slot below it. Keep following The Car Guide for full details and pictures of the Hyundai IONIQ 9 following its global premiere in November.