Production-ready Hyundai IONIQ 9 spotted in California

The 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 9 has appeared in public while driving in California revealing its large size and key specs including the headlights, tires, and rear side. However, the rest of the car was covered and camouflaged to hide its exterior.

The YouTuber tried to follow the vehicle for a longer distance while the driver took it for a test drive.

IONIQ 9 will be Hyundai’s first electric SUV. The model will come with three seats. Its concept was initially announced as IONIQ 7 during the 2021 Los Angeles Auto Show.

The name change came after internal discussions. However, its size and specifications won’t change. The current lineup of the IONIQ includes IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6.

Hyundai IONIQ 9 Spotted In California (Image Credit: KindelAuto/YouTube)

The carmaker indicates that Hyundai could introduce IONIQ 9 in June during the Busan International Motor Show. Kia is already selling an EV9, a three-seater electric SUV, which achieved only 8,052 units of sale in 2023 half of the 16,000 unit target.

The company last year reported 268,785 electric vehicle sales in the global market, triple the quantity from 2020.

Media reports on IONIQ 9 suggest 76.1 kilowatt-hours and 99.8 kilowatt-hours battery options. It could ramp up the driving range to 501 kilometers (311 miles) at a full charge.

This model will be produced at Hyundai’s Asan, South Chungcheong, and Georgia plants. Its Georgia facility is underway for construction and likely to be completed by October.