We will finally see Hyundai’s first three-row electric SUV later this month. Ahead of its big day, The Hyundai IONIQ 9 SUV was spotted in California wearing barely any camouflage. The new sighting gives us our closest look yet.
It’s been almost three years since Hyundai revealed its first three-row electric SUV concept to the world.
Hyundai unveiled the SEVEN concept at the 2021 LA Auto Show, a larger electric SUV to sit above the IONIQ 5 and 6 models. Since then, the company confirmed the new SUV will actually go by the IONIQ 9 when it arrives.
The name change from the expected IONIQ 7 (SEVEN) to IONIQ 9 signals the upcoming SUV’s status as Hyundai’s new flagship model.
During Investor Day in August, Hyundai’s CEO, Jang Jae-hoon, said the IONIQ 9 will be built alongside the updated 2025 IONIQ 5 at its massive new Metaplant America (HMGMA) manufacturing plant in GA, which opened last month.
Ahead of its debut, we’ve seen the larger electric SUV out for testing several times, revealing its big body and sleek new design.
Last week, Hyundai released its first official teaser for the three-row model. With its big day approaching, a new sighting in California gives us a better look at the Hyundai IONIQ 9.
US sighting reveals new Hyundai IONIQ 9 design
The new image from KindelAuto reveals the extended rear end and updated taillight design. The IONIQ 9 is also more curvy and has smoother lines than the concept shown three years ago.
Hyundai said the IONIQ 9 is “the company’s inaugural venture into the realm of large SUV EV models.”
Based on its advanced E-GMP platform, the same underpinning its popular IONIQ 5 and 6 models, Hyundai claims the SUV boasts a “spacious and comfortable interior.”
The company said its new “Aerosthetic” design blends aerodynamic performance and aesthetic design. With an extended wheelbase and single-curved roofline, the IONIQ 9 will have “ample space for all passengers, including those in the third row,” the company said.
Although you can’t see it in the new photo, Hyundai’s IONIQ 9 will also feature its signature parametric pixel front headlight design.
We will find out all the details when Hyundai officially unveils the IONIQ 9 later this month. It’s expected to debut at the 2024 LA Auto Show, starting November 22, 2024. Hyundai also said to watch for more teasers as it approaches its big day.
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