Hyundai is set to reveal its new IONIQ 9 electric SUV this week in the United States (US). This has raised questions about whether the Hyundai-Nishat group will officially launch it in Pakistan or not.
The vehicle marks the brand’s first full-size, three-row electric SUV.
For Pakistan, the arrival of this flagship could signal the next step in the local electric vehicle market, where Hyundai-Nishat has already introduced the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6.
IONIQ 9 Electric SUV
The IONIQ 9 is built on Hyundai’s E-GMP platform, which is also used in the Kia EV9.
This platform provides a flat floor, giving more space for passengers across three rows.
The SUV comes with a 110.3 kWh battery pack in all trims. An 800V system allows fast charging, reaching 80% charge in about 24 minutes.
Buyers will have a choice between rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD).
The top Performance AWD version produces 422 horsepower and can accelerate from 0–100 km/h in just under five seconds.
Key specifications
| Feature | Long-Range RWD | Long-Range AWD | Performance AWD |
| Battery | 110.3 kWh | 110.3 kWh | 110.3 kWh |
| Horsepower | 215 hp | 303 hp | 422 hp |
| Range (WLTP) | 540 km | 515 km | 500 km |
| Seating | 7 | 7 | 6 (captain’s) |
| Wheelbase | 123.2 inches | 123.2 inches | 123.2 inches |
Interior design
The cabin emphasises comfort and usability. Second-row captain’s chairs can swivel to face the third row when parked.
A sliding centre console, called the Universal Island 2.0, provides extra storage for passengers.
Small personal items can also be disinfected using a UV-C steriliser in the glovebox.
The dashboard features a panoramic curved display combining two 12.3-inch screens for both instruments and infotainment.
Implications for Pakistan
Hyundai-Nishat has brought the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 to Pakistan as completely imported units.
Introducing the IONIQ 9 locally would depend on several factors.
High import duties and the current lack of high-capacity DC charging stations along highways like the M-2 could slow a full launch.
Still, the IONIQ 9 provides a glimpse of the kind of large electric SUVs that could eventually be available in the country.
Its design prioritises space and efficiency, rather than following the performance-focused approach of traditional SUVs.
Looking ahead
Hyundai’s IONIQ 9 shows the company is moving toward fully electric, family-sized vehicles.
For Pakistani drivers, it may set a standard for three-row electric SUVs, but whether it will arrive locally remains uncertain.
For now, the focus for local EV buyers remains on smaller models that fit existing infrastructure.
Also read: BYD announces limited-time offer on all vehicles across Pakistan
