2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 Preferred Ultimate Calligraphy Review

Are you trying to find a three-row electric SUV that can handle both the daily school run and big family adventures? It feels like a tough search. You see a lot of SUVs that promise amazing fast charging or cool new tech, but it’s rare to find one that truly delivers on everything at once.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 is here to change that.

Built on the impressive Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), featuring seriously quick DC fast charging. Its design is a cool mix of sharp, futuristic lines and a little bit of retro flair.

Having spent years reviewing EVs like the fun Hyundai Ioniq 5 N and the practical Ioniq 5, I’ve learned what really makes a difference in this crowded market. During my test drive of the Ioniq 9, its smartly designed center console stood out immediately for just how useful it is. The real-world efficiency also impressed me.

So, if you’re looking for honest answers about this high-end electric SUV, you’ve come to the right place. I’ll walk you through its biggest strengths and even some of the small bumps in its ride comfort.

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 Canadian Pricing and Trim Options

The Preferred Ultimate Calligraphy trim sits at the top of the lineup, so it naturally costs more than the base models. But for that price, you get fantastic extras like a panoramic glass roof and premium Nappa leather seats. I found Hyundai’s online configurator made it easy to compare features and see exactly what you get with each upgrade.

Pricing for the Preferred Ultimate Calligraphy trim

The top of the line Ioniq 9 Preferred AWD+ with the Ultimate Calligraphy Package is definitely a premium offering. This fully optioned out trim, which comes with features that could be mistaken for a luxury SUV, is priced at $81,499. It’s a steep price, but it is an extremely luxurious vehicle. This top trim costs slightly more than the Kia EV9 GT, which it’s based on, but I find the Ioniq 9 to be more luxurious in the top trim.

Comparison with other trims

Choosing the right Hyundai Ioniq 9 trim really depends on your specific needs and budget. The Preferred Ultimate Calligraphy is the top-of-the-line option, but other trims offer great value as well. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide.

The big takeaway? The Calligraphy trim adds luxury touches and the most advanced tech, like the head-up display and remote parking. However, the Limited trim is also very well-equipped with the powerful AWD system and premium features like the Bose audio system, making it a fantastic choice as well.

The above prices do not include Freight & PDI, other fees, and taxes. Currently, there are no federal or provincial incentives offered on the Ioniq 9 EV.

Performance and Powertrain

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 Preferred Ultimate Calligraphy delivers some real muscle with every press of the pedal, thanks to its powerful EV setup and instant torque. With HTRAC all-wheel drive, this SUV gets you moving quickly, even if you’re towing a trailer for a weekend trip.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k7CUh9-UR1MQ

EV motor specifications

The dual-motor HTRAC all-wheel drive setup gives you a thrilling 422 horsepower and an incredible 516 lb-ft of torque. I found that it responds instantly at every stoplight. The rear-wheel drive version offers 303 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, which feels more than adequate for city driving and family getaways.

Both versions use permanent-magnet motors that deliver smooth and steady power. Because every Ioniq 9 is built on Hyundai’s E-GMP platform, the ride is remarkably quiet and stable, even when the car is fully loaded. All trims use a single-speed transmission.

Under the floor sits a hefty 110.3-kWh NMC lithium-ion battery that provides consistent power whether you’re merging onto the highway or just cruising around town. This isn’t a phev, it’s a full electric experience.

“It surprised me how quick an SUV this size can leap off the line.”

Acceleration and 0-60 MPH times

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 Preferred Ultimate Calligraphy has some serious get-up-and-go for a three-row EV. I was blown away when the all-wheel drive model rocketed from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds. That’s quicker than many gas-guzzling SUVs and even a little faster than a Tesla Model Y.

If you opt for the rear-wheel drive version, you’re looking at a 0-60 mph time of about 7.8 seconds, which is a bit more relaxed but still plenty quick for everyday driving needs.

When it comes to stopping power, the AWD model brakes from 60 mph in only 119 feet, which provides a great sense of security. The RWD version takes just a few more feet to come to a stop, which is still impressive for a vehicle of this size. Handling is also confident, with the AWD model gripping corners well, so you never feel like you’re wrestling with it on a curvy exit ramp.

Towing capacity

For many families, being able to pull a trailer with an electric SUV like the Hyundai Ioniq 9 is a big deal. The good news is that the AWD models have a respectable towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, while the base RWD version can pull up to 3,500 pounds. That’s enough for a small camper or a trailer with a couple of jet skis.

To make things even easier, the Ioniq 9 features a “trailer mode” that can automatically detect the trailer’s weight and adjust the predicted battery range accordingly. This is a fantastic feature that helps reduce range anxiety when you’re hauling gear for a family vacation.

Range and Charging

I spent a good amount of time monitoring the charging information on the center console, and it provided solid, real-world numbers on how long I’d be waiting at home and public chargers. The battery held up well, which made road trips feel much less stressful than I had anticipated.

Battery life and charging times

The Ioniq 9 comes with a large 110.3-kWh battery, giving you plenty of energy for long drives. What really makes it stand out is the combination of its Tesla-style NACS port and an 800-volt electrical system. This technology turns charging from a chore into a quick coffee break.

At a 350-kW DC fast charger, you can add over 210 kms of range in just 15 minutes. A charge from 10% to 80% takes only about 24 minutes, which is incredibly fast for a battery this large.

This rapid charging is a huge advantage, especially with the growth of new networks like the Ionna network. Ionna, a joint venture between Hyundai, Kia, BMW, GM, and others, aims to add over 30,000 new fast chargers across North America, making it even easier to find a reliable spot to top up.

Real-world range estimates

So, how far can the Hyundai Ioniq 9 Preferred Ultimate Calligraphy actually go on a single charge? My review took place in the warmer months of the year, where the temperature was the most ideal and the conditions were perfect for EVs. On a fully charged battery, the onboard computer showed a range of 694 kilometers max, which is if I drove it in the Eco mode. And a minimum range of 424 kilometers, if I drove it in the Sport mode and drove it like a hooligan.

I personally don’t drive like a hooligan and have quite a light foot. Averaging 19.5 kWh/100 kilometers, which quite an impressive consumption number, driving in about 50/50 city/highway conditions. According to NRCan, the top trim of the Ioniq 9 should consume 23.2/26.5/24.7 kWh/100 km in city/highway/combined driving. My consumption numbers/range should be different in colder temperatures, especially with the cabin heater on, but over a year of driving, the range should average out to the claimed number. I find Hyundai/Kia is always quite conservative with their estimated range, unlike Tesla, which is always overestimating the potential range.

Interior and Comfort

The moment I sank into the driver’s seat, I was impressed. The seats are soft, and the wide center console is packed with smart storage solutions. With three rows of seating, there’s plenty of space for the whole family, along with all their backpacks and snacks.

Cabin design and materials

The cabin of the Hyundai Ioniq 9 has a clean, upscale feel, with smooth surfaces and a mix of leather, cloth, and metallic accents. What I really appreciate is Hyundai’s commitment to sustainability. The interior uses eco-friendly materials, including recycled plastics, wool, and even fabrics made from marine waste.

The customizable center console is a standout feature. It can slide back to be accessible to second-row passengers and even has a drawer to pass items to the back. The top tray offers 5.6 liters of space, with another 12.6 liters below, providing plenty of room for all your essentials. The build quality feels premium at every touchpoint, making every drive feel a bit more special.

Seating capacity and comfort

I was genuinely surprised by how much room adults have in every row of the Hyundai Ioniq 9. The rear-wheel drive model seats seven, while the all-wheel drive version has six seats with comfortable second-row captain’s chairs.

Thanks to the E-GMP platform, the floor is completely flat, making it easy to get into the third row without any awkward maneuvering. For extra luxury, you can get “Relaxation Seats” for the first and second rows, which recline and even have massage functions. Some models even offer second-row seats that can swivel to face the third row, creating a more social, lounge-like atmosphere. Even tall passengers will find plenty of legroom and headroom, making long trips comfortable for everyone.

Technology and Infotainment

I had a lot of fun playing with the huge touchscreen, and it’s incredibly crisp and simple to use. With Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a wireless charger, my whole crew stayed happy and connected on our long drive.

Infotainment system features

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 is equipped with a modern and intuitive infotainment system. The centerpiece is a beautiful curved panoramic display that combines a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch central touchscreen into one seamless unit. The graphics are sharp, and the system is very responsive.

I especially like that Hyundai included a row of physical buttons for essential climate controls, which is much easier to use while driving than tapping through menus. The system also supports over-the-air (OTA) updates, so your car’s software will always be up-to-date with the latest features.

• Dual 12.3-inch displays create a high-tech cockpit.
• Bose premium audio system with 14 speakers is available for an immersive sound experience.
• AI-powered voice recognition understands natural commands, making it easy to control various functions.

Connectivity options

Hyundai clearly put a lot of thought into keeping everyone connected in the Ioniq 9. One of the biggest advantages is the inclusion of a Tesla NACS charging port, which gives you access to Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network right out of the box.

Inside, you’ll find plenty of charging options for all your devices.

There are multiple USB-C ports in all three rows, so nobody has to fight over a charger. These aren’t just any ports, they can deliver up to 100 watts of power, which is enough to charge a laptop. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work flawlessly, and a Wi-Fi hotspot keeps everyone online during long trips.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

I always feel a little more relaxed behind the wheel with Hyundai’s smart sensors and driver aids working in the background. It feels like having a co-pilot who is always paying attention. Features like lane-keeping help, blind-spot alerts, and automatic braking add a layer of confidence, especially in heavy traffic.

Standard and optional safety features

Safety is a top priority in the Hyundai Ioniq 9, which comes loaded with the Hyundai SmartSense suite of advanced safety technologies. This system uses a network of cameras and radar sensors to act as an extra set of eyes on the road. Here are some of the key features:

1. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist: This system can detect potential collisions with cars, pedestrians, or cyclists and automatically apply the brakes if you don’t react in time.
2. Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist: It warns you of vehicles in your blind spot and can even apply gentle steering to help avoid a collision if you try to change lanes.
3. Lane Keeping Assist: This feature provides gentle steering inputs to keep your vehicle centered in its lane.
4. Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go: It maintains a set distance from the car ahead and can bring the vehicle to a complete stop and start again in traffic.
5. Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist: When you’re backing out of a parking spot, this system warns you of approaching traffic and can apply the brakes if needed.
6. Safe Exit Assist: This clever feature prevents the rear doors from opening if it detects a vehicle approaching from behind, which is great for protecting kids.

Advanced driver-assistance technologies

I spent a lot of time testing the driver-assistance tech on both highways and city streets. The Ioniq 9 comes standard with Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2), which is a very capable system that helps with steering, speed, and lane changes.

While I found HDA2 to be smooth and reliable, it is important to know that it is not a fully hands-free system. You need to keep your hands on the steering wheel. It’s a step below systems like GM’s Super Cruise or Ford’s BlueCruise, which allow for hands-free driving on designated highways.

Here’s a quick rundown of my experience:

• Lane Following Assist works well on clearly marked roads, keeping the car perfectly centered.
• Smart Cruise Control is excellent in stop-and-go traffic, providing smooth acceleration and braking.
• The Surround View Monitor gives you a 360-degree bird’s-eye view of the car, which makes parking in tight spots incredibly easy.
• The Blind-Spot View Monitor displays a live camera feed of your blind spot in the digital instrument cluster when you use your turn signal, which is a feature I absolutely love.

Pros and Cons

Like any car, the Ioniq 9 has its high points and a few areas where it could be better. It all comes down to what you value most, whether it’s the cutting-edge features or the need for a huge battery on your daily drive.

Key advantages

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 Preferred Ultimate Calligraphy really shines for families who need a practical three-row EV but don’t want to sacrifice style or modern features. It strikes an excellent balance of comfort, usability, and cool, futuristic design.

1. Blazing-Fast Charging: With its 800-volt architecture, you can add over 130 miles of range in just 15 minutes at a DC fast charger, making road trip stops short and sweet.
2. Head-Turning Style: The retro-futuristic design stands out in any parking lot, making it feel like you’re driving something truly special.
3. Smooth and Confident Ride: The solid chassis provides a smooth ride over most surfaces, giving you plenty of confidence behind the wheel.
4. Premium and Spacious Cabin: The interior is filled with high-quality, sustainable materials and offers tons of space for passengers and cargo.
5. User-Friendly Tech: The large digital displays are easy to use, and features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and the Blind-Spot View Monitor make driving more convenient.
6. Comprehensive Safety Suite: Hyundai’s SmartSense features provide peace of mind with a wide range of active driver aids.
7. Excellent Warranty: Hyundai’s industry-leading warranty coverage is a major plus, offering long-term peace of mind.
8. Strong Performance: The quick acceleration makes merging onto highways effortless, even with a full car.

Areas for improvement

While there’s a lot to love, there are a few areas where some buyers might want to see a bit more polish from the Ioniq 9 Preferred Ultimate Calligraphy.

1. Ride Quality on Rough Roads: While generally smooth, the ride can feel a bit firm over larger bumps and potholes.
2. Driver-Assistance System Limitations: The Highway Driving Assist 2 system is very good, but it’s not a hands-free system like GM’s Super Cruise or Ford’s BlueCruise.
3. Some Interior Materials: While mostly premium, some buyers have noted a few plastic materials that don’t quite match the otherwise upscale feel.
4. Charging Speed Variability: To get the fastest charging times, you need to find a 350-kW charger, and speeds can be slower at less powerful public stations.
5. Premium Price Tag: The top-tier trims are priced near $80,000, which is a significant investment, even for a premium EV.
6. Infotainment Response: The screen is beautiful, but some users have reported occasional lag when scrolling through maps or switching between apps.

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 – The 3-Row SUV For Families

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 Preferred Ultimate Calligraphy is a fantastic choice for families looking for a stylish and high-tech electric SUV. It really stands out with its incredibly fast charging speed and spacious, comfortable interior.

It offers a ton of value for anyone who needs three rows of seats and wants the latest in performance and convenience. The powerful all-wheel-drive system delivers impressive acceleration, making it fun to drive, while the long list of standard safety features provides peace of mind on every trip.

Of course, no car is perfect. The real-world range, while good, doesn’t always match the official EPA numbers, and its driver-assistance tech isn’t fully hands-free like some competitors. However, these are minor points when you consider the whole package.

In my opinion, the Ioniq 9’s combination of eye-catching design, a practical and luxurious cabin, and game-changing charging technology makes it one of the most compelling three-row EVs on the market today. It proves that you don’t have to compromise on style or features to get a practical family vehicle.

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 Review Photo Gallery

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