The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 lineup, featuring six trim levels, has demonstrated varied performance in MotorTrend’s rigorous Road-Trip Range test. Among these, the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 SEL AWD stands out as a significant achiever, being the first Ioniq 9 model to surpass the 300-mile mark in this challenging assessment. This mid-grade variant successfully completed 302 miles, setting it apart from its siblings and establishing it as the premier choice for extended road trips between charging cycles.

A closer look at the test results reveals the SEL AWD's impressive lead. The base model Ioniq 9 S achieved 262 miles, while the top-spec Ioniq 9 Calligraphy managed 269 miles. These figures underscore the SEL AWD's superior efficiency in real-world highway driving conditions, a focus of MotorTrend's testing methodology. Notably, the Road-Trip Range test results are typically about 15 percent lower than the EPA's official combined city/highway range figures, primarily because highway driving is less efficient for electric vehicles. Despite this, the Ioniq 9 AWD SEL's MotorTrend range was only 6 percent below its EPA rating of 320 miles. In contrast, the Ioniq 9 S fell 22 percent short of its 335-mile EPA range, and the Ioniq 9 Calligraphy was 14 percent under its 311-mile EPA rating. All Ioniq 9 models share a robust 110.3-kWh battery pack.

In the competitive landscape of three-row electric SUVs, the Ioniq 9 AWD SEL presents a formidable challenge to rivals such as the Kia EV9 Land AWD and the Cadillac Vistiq Sport. The Hyundai model notably outperformed the Kia EV9's 270-mile MotorTrend range, an achievement made even more significant given the Kia's slightly smaller battery capacity (more than 10 kWh less). The 2026 Cadillac Vistiq Sport, positioned as a more upscale contender, recorded 265 miles in the range test with its 102 kWh battery pack. Beyond range, the Ioniq 9 also boasts superior DC fast-charging capabilities. In testing, the Hyundai replenished 149 miles of range in just 15 minutes, and 257 miles in 30 minutes, considerably more than the Kia's 134 miles and the Cadillac's meager 70 miles in the same 15-minute period, ensuring more efficient road trip charging stops.

The Ioniq 9 AWD SEL is powered by a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive setup delivering 303 horsepower, placing it in the middle of the model's three available powertrains. The Ioniq 9 S features a 215-hp single motor powering the rear wheels, while the Calligraphy boasts an uprated dual-motor powertrain generating 422 hp. While some critics expressed concerns about the base Ioniq 9 being potentially underpowered for a three-row crossover, the Ioniq 9 AWD SEL offers ample power for family duties, providing strong acceleration and competent passing power.

Priced at a starting MSRP of $67,920 ($68,870 as tested), the Ioniq 9 AWD SEL offers compelling value. It is approximately $6,900 more than the base Ioniq 9 S but a substantial $11,170 cheaper than the top-spec Ioniq 9 Calligraphy Design. Despite its mid-range positioning, it is far from a basic model, featuring amenities such as power-adjustable front seats, heated seats for both the first and second rows, and an extensive suite of driver assistance systems, all contributing to a strong value proposition. With its outstanding road-trip performance now confirmed, the Ioniq 9 AWD SEL further solidifies its appeal.

Key specifications for the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 AWD SEL include a total power output of 303 hp and 446 lb-ft of torque, delivered through two 1-speed fixed ratio transmissions. It is equipped with a 110.3-kWh NCM lithium-ion battery and has an estimated curb weight of 5,700 lb. Its dimensions are 199.2 inches in length, 78.0 inches in width, and 70.5 inches in height, with a wheelbase of 123.2 inches. It runs on Kumho Crugen EV HP71 275/50R20 113V M+S tires. EPA estimated fuel economy is 98/78/88 mpg-e (City/Hwy/Combined), with an EPA range of 320 miles. The tested 70-MPH Road-Trip Range was 302 miles, and it demonstrated impressive fast-charging, gaining 149 miles in 15 minutes and 257 miles in 30 minutes. Estimated 0-60 MPH acceleration is 5.7 seconds.