2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 vs. 2026 Kia EV9

Is it time to trade in your old 7-seater for a shiny new all-electric one? That's a big jump, and one that you shouldn't take lightly. Patience breeds success, so take the time to go over this comprehensive guide comparing two of the top 3-row SUV EVs this year. We'll compare every detail you want to know between the 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 and the 2026 Kia EV9 so you can make the investment of a lifetime.

See what new Hyundai EVs in Columbus, can do when you visit your friendly Hyundai dealership near you. Reach out to Great Lakes Hyundai of Columbus and get in touch with your personal guide to the world of all-electric driving.

For the EV that can do the most, the 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 in Westerville is an easy and sensible choice. You can't go wrong with the most miles on the standard model, a massive amount of standard safety features, and class-leading interior space. The 2026 Kia EV9 is still pretty good for what it is. It just so happens that the IONIQ 9 has more going on. The Kia EV9 might seem appealing to those who want to save every dollar they can, but spending just a little more for the IONIQ 9 is an investment that will continuously reward you over time.

What's even better than getting up to 335 miles of range on your Hyundai electric vehicle in Columbus? Getting that on the base model. The 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9's base S trim delivers 215 horsepower on a 160kW motor and the most miles that you can get on this 3-row EV. There's also a 226.1kW upgrade for 303 hp and the highest 314.6kW motor for 422 hp. Even then, the range never drops below 311 miles. Every IONIQ 9 model is a win in every regard.

The 2026 Kia EV9 also comes with a 215-hp standard motor. The biggest difference? This base model only makes up to 230 miles. That's over a hundred miles fewer than the IONIQ 9's standard. You could go with the Kia EV9 trim with the most range at 305 miles, but you'd have to settle for the 201-hp powertrain. It's like a game of give and take with Kia, but all Hyundai does is give. In any case, both the EV9 and IONIQ 9 can charge from 10-80% in 24 minutes and tow up to 5,000 pounds.

Hyundai went all out with the IONIQ 9's highly anticipated debut. Anyone looking to get the new 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 in Columbus will get one of the lengthiest versions of Hyundai SmartSense that you've ever laid eyes on. Much of what grew in this standard package includes enhanced or updated versions of basics that we've become familiar with over the years. Take a look at some of these fan favorites:

• Smart Cruise Control 2
• Highway Driving Assist 2
• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Junction Turning Detection and Direct Oncoming
• Parking Distance Warning - Reverse and Forward
• Advanced Rear Occupant Alert
• Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist

You shouldn't expect the EV9 to be on par with the SmartSense package that Hyundai has been nourishing for the past few years. At the very least, both the Kia EV9 and Hyundai IONIQ 9 share some of the same available driver-assist systems for those looking to upgrade. Some of these add-ons worth getting include Remote Smart Parking Assist 2 and the Full Display Rearview Mirror, both of which are skyrocketing in popularity for the new model year.

One of the major selling points of the IONIQ 9, and the main reason that had people anxiously waiting for this EV's arrival, is the lounge-like and very spacious interior. Hyundai stayed true to its promise and delivered class-leading interior space that makes for a great mobile hangout. The Hyundai IONIQ 9 in Gahanna gets 185.44 cubic feet of total interior volume, with 163.54 cubic feet of that going to passenger volume. This also paves the way for incredible cargo space with a max of 86.9 cubic feet. Some available upgrades that would make the best use of this social lounge area would be a power-folding third row, a panoramic sunroof, and cozy relaxation seats.

The Kia EV9 only gets about 81.7 cubic feet of max cargo space, but that makes sense for not holding the title of having class-leading interior volume. This 3-row electric SUV continues to compete with 2nd-row lounge seats equipped with a headrest and leg rest, but the IONIQ 9 also offers luxurious seating arrangements with a roomier cabin to enjoy every ride to the fullest.

Treat yourself to the all-new IONIQ 9 that blew everyone away before it even hit the market. Take a trip out to your local Hyundai dealership in Columbus for a life-changing test drive and an award-winning 3-row EV with class-leading space, high-tech features, and ultimate luxury.