As most people are aware, Kia is owned by Hyundai and the two South Koreans share many models.
They might not look alike and they might have different names, but essentially they are the same car under the skin.
This week Hyundai launched its version of the EV9 electric people mover, called the Ioniq 9 — an odd choice given that it has seven seats.
It will be available initially in one fully-featured version, Calligraphy, priced from $119,750 before on-road costs — more like $120K by the time you put it on the road.
It makes Ioniq 9 the most expensive vehicle Hyundai has ever offered in Australia.
The equivalent EV9 GT-Line AWD is priced from $121,000.
Apart from paint and the number of seats, there’s just the one option: digital side mirrors at $3000.
Kia does however offer a couple of cheaper versions of its car, from $97,000.
Ioniq 9 delivers 314kW of power and 700Nm of torque, catapulting it to 100km/h in 5.2 seconds.
A larger 110 kWh battery pack that pushes the range out to 600km.
In comparison EV9 is good for 283kW and 700Nm, and does the dash in 5.3 seconds.
It has a smaller 99 kWh battery and maximum range of 512km.
With the right charger, the Ioniq can be charged from 10 to 80 percent in as little as 24 minutes.
Hyundai will tell you there are many differences between the two vehicles (and there probably are), but you’ll have to go looking for them.
Available in six- or seven-seat configuration, Ioniq 9 is a few centimetres longer and has a slightly larger battery, but that’s about all. Sorry.
Six-seater variants which cost an extra $2000 usher in an innovative sliding Universal Island 2.0 Centre Console and a matching pair of Relaxation Seats for second-row passengers.
Standard kit includes 21-inch alloys, LED lights, dual 12.3-inch digital screens, three-zone climate control and a panoramic sunroof.
There’s also wireless phone charging, a power-operated tailgate, 14-speaker Bose audio, head-up display and six USB-C ports scattered around the cabin.
The Nappa leather front seats are power-adjustable with heating and cooling plus an extended recline function, presumably for extended charge sessions.
“As our first three-row, all-electric SUV, Ioniq 9 is a milestone vehicle, underscoring Hyundai’s EV leadership and our continuing commitment to innovation,” Hyundai’s Don Romano said.
“Ioniq 9 blends lounge-like space, distinctive aerodynamic design, and an advanced user experience to create a captivating and luxurious family vehicle.”
CHECKOUT: Hyundai Ioniq 5: What about Mr Average?