Kia and Hyundai‘s upcoming entries into the electric SUV segment have created quite a buzz. As the EV9 and Ioniq 7 debuts draw near, anticipation runs high for the sister brands‘ first three-row battery-powered family haulers.
This guide offers a comprehensive look at the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 7 EVs head to head. We‘ll compare critical specs, capabilities, tech features and more. Read on to gain expert insight into these compelling green SUVs before they land in dealerships.
Overview of the Kia EV9 vs Hyundai Ioniq 7 Rivalry
As leading mass-market automakers with an extensive partnership, Kia and Hyundai releasing rival electric SUV models was inevitable. The EV9 and Ioniq 7 will compete directly for the same environmentally-minded family buyers needing space, performance and cutting-edge amenities.
Kia has taken the initiative by revealing full specs already for the EV9 ahead of its 2024 production start in South Korea. Hyundai has kept details closer to the vest thus far, teasing only a conceptual vision of the Ioniq 7 so far.
This preview guide will analyze all available information on critical factors like:
- Size, seating capacity, cargo space
- Driving range, battery specs and charging rate
- Acceleration, torque ratings, towing capacity
- Safety tech, driver assists and connectivity features
- Interior dimensions, materials, creature comforts
- Pricing and sales timelines for both EVs
Where key details remain unannounced for the Ioniq 7, we’ll make educated projections based on Hyundai‘s current EV models. Let’s dive in to see how these electric SUV rivals stack up!
Exterior Design and Dimensions
The Kia EV9 adopts a boxier, more upright stance compared to the curvier Hyundai Ioniq 7. This shape lends itself better to interior spaciousness, while Hyundai opts for flashier sports coupe-like styling.
Kia EV9
- Length – 197 inches
- Width – 79 inches
- Wheelbase – 122 inches
- Ground clearance – 9.6 inches
Hyundai Ioniq 7 (Expected)
- Length – 195 inches
- Width – 81 inches
- Wheelbase – 132 inches
- Ground clearance – 6-7 inches
Verdict: The EV9 appears roomier, while the Ioniq 7 makes more of a style statement.
Passenger and Cargo Capacity
With its larger dimensions, the EV9 also wins on usable interior room. Both SUVs promise 3 rows of seating for 6 or 7 passengers. But the EV9 offers greater cargo versatility.
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EV9 passenger capacity: Available in 6 or 7 seat configurations
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EV9 cargo room: 31.1 cubic feet behind row 2 | 78.8 cubic feet with rear seats folded
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Ioniq 7 passenger capacity: Seats 6 or 7 occupants
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Ioniq 7 cargo room: No dimensions announced yet. The EV9 provides 20-25% more space based on exterior size.
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Maximum trailer towing capacity: EV9 – 4500 lbs | Ioniq 7 – 3500 lbs (estimated)
Verdict: The Kia EV9 is optimized better for both passengers and gear, while matching the Ioniq 7 for trailering ability.
Driving Range, Charging Speed and Battery
As the EV9 sits closer to production-ready, Kia has already announced battery specifications. Exact details remain unconfirmed for the Ioniq 7, but should align closely with the existing Ioniq 5 crossover.
Kia EV9
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Standard battery: 76.1 kWh | Target range per charge: 220 miles
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Extended range battery: 99.8 kWh | Target range per charge: 336 miles
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800V multi-charging capability
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DC fast charging: 10-80% in under 30 minutes (350 kW max)
Hyundai Ioniq 7
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Battery capacity: ~77 kWh standard | ~103 kWh extended range
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EPA range estimate: 285 miles standard | 325 miles extended
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800V architecture
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DC fast charging: 10-80% in 18 minutes (350 kW max)
Verdict: The EV9 and Ioniq 7 appear evenly matched for maximum range. Both support ultra-fast 800V charging up to 350 kW.
Charging Standard Support Comparison
| Charging Standard | Kia EV9 | Hyundai Ioniq 7 |
|---|---|---|
| Level 2 AC | Yes | Yes |
| 800V DC Fast Charge | Yes | Yes |
| CCS Connector | Yes | Yes |
Performance, Handling and Capability
The EV9 offers buyers a choice of rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive versions. Hyundai looks set to offer AWD exclusively for maximum all-weather traction. Let‘s see how these electric SUVs measure up by the numbers:
Kia EV9
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Single motor RWD: 215 hp, 258 lb-ft torque
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Dual motor AWD: 320 hp, 446 lb-ft torque
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Tow rating: 4500 lbs (AWD only)
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Acceleration, RWD: 0-60 mph in 8.5 seconds
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Acceleration, AWD: 0-60 mph in 5.2 seconds
Hyundai Ioniq 7
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Dual motor AWD: Power output 320 hp (estimated)
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Torque rating 400 lb-ft (estimated)
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Tow rating: 3500 lbs
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Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 5.0 seconds (estimated)
Verdict: The Ioniq 7 appears sportier, but the EV9 AWD matches it for acceleration while offering greater towing ability. Rear drivers get more range from the EV9.
Safety Technology and Driver Assistance Features
As the newest models from both automakers, buyers can expect the latest advancements in collision protection and avoidance systems. Details remain preliminary for the Ioniq 7 – these estimates are based on existing Hyundai EVs.
Kia EV9
- Forward Collision Warning and Avoidance Assist
- Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Highway Driving Assist 2 (semi-autonomous)
- Surround View Monitor w/ 3D perspective view
- Rear Occupant Alert system
- Smart cruise control with stop & go
- Parking Collision Avoidance Assist
Hyundai Ioniq 7 (Expected)
- Forward Collision Warning and Avoidance
- Blind Spot Collision Avoidance
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Assistance
- Highway Driving Assist (semi-autonomous)
- Surround View Monitor
- Blind View Monitor
- Rear Occupant Alert
- Smart Sense adaptive cruise control
- Remote Smart Parking Assist
Verdict: Both SUVs will offer comprehensive active safety suites and the latest driver assistance tech. The EV9 adds a few extras like junction crossing and evasive steering support.
Interior Design, Passenger Comfort and Cargo Utility
This is where the personalities of these electric SUVs truly diverge – the EV9 leans practical while the Ioniq 7 makes a design statement.
Kia EV9
- Flexible seating configurations – second row slides and swivels
- Bridge-style center console with retractable gear selector
- Sustainable leather-alternative upholstery
- Heated and ventilated seats
- Power-folding third row
- In-cabin air purification
- Dual panoramic sunroofs with power shades
Hyundai Ioniq 7
- Bench seat front row with pop-out leg rests
- Relaxation mode with reclining second row
- Sustainable interior materials like mineral plaster and bamboo
- Adjustable ambient interior lighting
- Overhead transparent OLED center display
- Air purification system
- Power sliding center console with wireless charging
For flexible carrying capacity focused on passenger comfort and gear, the straightforward EV9 has the Ioniq’s number. But if you prioritize next-level concept car styling and an avant-garde lounge-style interior, the radical Ioniq 7 stands out.
Onboard Technology, Connectivity and Entertainment
Both the EV9 and Ioniq 7 will offer the latest infotainment software, with intuitive dual touchscreens and support for wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto functionality. Unique tech features provide some differentiation:
Kia EV9
- Dual 12” panoramic displays with intuitive touch controls
- Head-up display with augmented reality support
- AI-based voice assistant with natural language understanding
- Kia Connect app support via smartphone pairing
- Digital vehicle key sharing and control via app
- Add-on software upgrades via Connect online store
Hyundai Ioniq 7
- Extra-wide integrated dual screens
- Head-up display with mixed reality augmentation
- Multi One Design touch controller
- SmartSense AI assistant and Hey Hyundai wake word
- Bluelink connected services app integration
- Digital key sharing and remote operation through phone
For those desiring the most futuristic technologies, Hyundai appears set to push boundaries further with innovative interfaces like its center joystick controller and mixed reality display. But the EV9 won’t leave tech-focused buyers wanting either.
Over-the-air update capability will be standard for continuous feature enhancements. And Kia’s online Connect Store may prove a game changer down the road.
Cost Breakdown: MSRP Pricing and Incentives
Kia has indicated a starting MSRP around $55,000 for a base RWD EV9 when order books open. AWD models will run $5-8,000 more. Hyundai is likely targeting under $60,000 to start for a comparable Ioniq 7 variant accounting for features.
With the new federal electric vehicle tax credit in play though (up to $7,500), made-in-America assembly becomes a key advantage. If Hyundai produces U.S-bound Ioniq 7 models stateside, its effective cost could ultimately be over $5,000 less than the Korean-built EV9 for buyers able to utilize the full subsidy.
Let’s break down likely pricing plus incentives:
Kia EV9
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Base RWD: $55,000 MSRP
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AWD model: +$5,000 over base
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Tax credit eligibility: $0
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Effective starting price: $55,000
Hyundai Ioniq 7
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Base price: $57,000 (estimated MSRP)
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Possible U.S. assembly = full $7,500 tax credit qualification
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Effective starting price: $49,500
When it comes to value after incentives, the Ioniq 7 appears set to undercut the EV9 notably. But Kia’s lower upfront cost may allow more buyers to get into its new electric SUV.
Warranties and Maintenance Coverage
Kia and Hyundai have long been industry leaders in extended vehicle warranty coverage. The EV9 and Ioniq 7 should be no exception. Here’s what buyers can expect:
Kia EV9
- 10 years / 100k miles powertrain warranty
- 5 years / 60k miles basic coverage
- 10 years / 100k miles electric components
- 5 years roadside assistance
Hyundai Ioniq 7
- 10 years / 100k miles powertrain warranty
- 5 years / 60k miles basic coverage
- 10 years / 100k miles electric components
- 5 years roadside assistance
Verdict: The EV9 and Ioniq 7 match up evenly for warranty protection across the board. Longterm ownership costs look equally low.
Availability Timelines: When Can I Buy One?
Here’s the bottom line – Kia EV9 deliveries will begin at least a year ahead of the Ioniq 7 in the United States.
Release windows are:
- Kia EV9: Starts production Q1 2024 | Deliveries from mid-2024 model year
- Hyundai Ioniq 7: Earliest expectations point to 2025 model year availability
So buyers keen to get their hands on either electric SUV quickly have only one option for now – get your order in for the Kia EV9.
Hyundai fans seeking the Ioniq 7’s more radical take will need to play the waiting game into 2025…unless the automaker accelerates its ambiguous production schedule between now and then.
The Kia EV9 vs Hyundai Ioniq 7: Which Electric SUV Is Right For You?
With all factors weighed, is a verdict possible yet on whether the Kia EV9 or Hyundai Ioniq 7 presents the better overall value among these closely matched electric SUVs?
The EV9 holds advantages in passenger space, cargo versatility, earlier availability and towing brawn. Meanwhile, the Ioniq 7 looks primed to lead on design, interior innovation and possible effective cost after tax credit savings.
Ultimately, determining the superior option comes down to individual priorities:
- For families seeking 3-row generous capacity, flexible seating configurations and earlier delivery timing, the Kia EV9 makes the strongest case today.
- For tech lovers wanting the most radical styling, lounge-worthy creature comforts and an interior ambiance rivaling luxury makes, the Hyundai Ioniq 7 warrants the year-plus wait.
- For value hounds able to claim the full $7,500 tax credit, the made-in-America Ioniq 7 will likely represent over $5,000 in effective savings off the EV9’s MSRP once available.
While these forward-looking SUVs take slightly different angles toward ushering in the electric mobility future, they both present compelling eco-friendly options for their targeted demographics.
The EV9 caters squarely to family practicality without compromising on range, performance or amenities. And for those less concerned with sheer interior volume, the envelope-pushing Ioniq 7 looks to redefine expectations for sustainable luxury transportation – if you have the patience.
Within their lane, either model has potential to outshine established electric rivals on the factors most meaningful to EV shoppers. The Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 7 rivalry is just beginning, but consumers stand to win big as this pair of upstart Korean SUVs vie for supremacy.
