Hyundai's Evolution: New Era for Hyundai's IONIQ 7 as IONIQ 9

Mar 05, 2024 09:07 PM EST

GRAYSCALE PHOTO OF A HYUNDAI IONIQ 5 IN THE RAIN — (Photo : PEXELS/HYNDAI MOTOR GROUP)

Reports indicate that Hyundai is preparing to rebrand the Ioniq 7 in its esteemed lineup of electric vehicles. Set to be named the IONIQ 9, this transformation aims to align the model with its role as the brand's pioneering three-row electric SUV. Drawing inspiration from Kia's successful EV9, Hyundai seeks to capitalize on this nomenclature adjustment to further strengthen its market positioning and expand the appeal of its electrified offerings.

IONIQ 7 TO BECOME IONIQ 9

Hyundai's initial three-row electric SUV, initially revealed as the SEVEN concept at the 2021 LA Auto Show, is undergoing a branding transformation. Recent buzz is indicating a shift to the IONIQ 9 branding. DaxStreet shared that Automotive News has hinted at this change, stating that Hyundai intends to name its upcoming three-row SUV the IONIQ 9 rather than the previously anticipated IONIQ 7. While not officially confirmed by Hyundai's spokesperson, the anticipation builds as enthusiasts await further details about the next IONIQ model closer to its launch. This development keeps automotive enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the official announcement.

Amidst the shift in nomenclature for the IONIQ 9, the specific motivations behind this renaming remain shrouded in mystery. Industry rumors, suggest that Hyundai intentionally chose to match the SUV's name to its position in the lineup.

According to DaxStreet, it's possible that Hyundai wants to set the IONIQ 9 apart from Kia's EV9, which also uses the E-GMP architecture, in order to clear up any misunderstandings about the IONIQ 7's placement and quality.

Furthermore, Hyundai may need to change its naming practices as its lineup of electric vehicles grows, particularly if it introduces models that fall short of the IONIQ 7 and above the IONIQ 6.

While Hyundai has maintained a shroud of secrecy around the specifics of the Ioniq 7, recent observations from its testing phase in Korea have offered glimpses into its design characteristics. Interestingly, the vehicle seems to embrace a more restrained visual style in contrast to the EV9, showcasing distinct Escalade-inspired taillights and a front end that evokes the elegance of the Grandeur model.

Presenting IONIQ 9

According to reports from Electrek, the forthcoming IONIQ 9 is anticipated to follow in the footsteps of Kia's successful launch of its first three-row electric SUV, the EV9. Notably, Kia's EV9 garnered substantial attention, with pre-orders spanning all 50 states within a mere two months after opening. The Kia EV9 is selling well; 1,113 units were sold in December and 1,408 more in January, demonstrating a positive response from the market.

A Hyundai representative said that more thorough information on the future IONIQ model will be revealed as its launch date approaches, but they did not confirm the name change. Positioned on Hyundai's dedicated E-GMP platform, the EV9 boasts an impressive 42.8" of rear legroom, surpassing renowned models such as the Cadillac Escalade, 3-row Land Rover Range Rover P400, and Mercedes EQS.

Furthermore, the third row offers more shoulder and hip room compared to Tesla's Model X, solidifying its appeal in the competitive electric SUV segment.