The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 Calligraphy arrives as Hyundai’s most luxurious three-row EV yet, and it’s clear the brand wants this flagship SUV to rival premium competitors on comfort, technology, and everyday usability. With its bold styling, spacious cabin, and long list of amenities, the Ioniq 9 Calligraphy makes a strong case for shoppers wanting a full-size electric SUV without stepping into luxury-brand pricing—though its own price tag creeps close.
Powered by a dual-motor setup with 422 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, the Ioniq 9 has plenty of muscle for merging and passing, delivering smooth and confident acceleration. This isn’t a performance EV, however; Hyundai tuned the suspension for comfort rather than sportiness, resulting in a ride that soaks up broken pavement with ease but also exhibits noticeable body roll when hustled through corners. Drivers seeking a more dynamic experience may find the Ioniq 9 a bit soft, but families prioritizing comfort will appreciate its relaxed demeanor.
Inside is where the Calligraphy trim truly shines. The cabin is exceptionally quiet thanks to acoustic-laminated glass in the first and second rows, and the interior feels airy and welcoming. A pair of curved 12.3-inch displays dominate the dashboard, offering crisp graphics and an intuitive interface. Hyundai also loads the Calligraphy with premium touches like massaging seats, a digital rearview mirror, 360-degree camera, wireless charging, head-up display, and even a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. The clever sliding center console adds extra flexibility, making it easy for passengers to stash bags or slide items forward within reach.
Space is a major win for the Ioniq 9. The first two rows are impressively roomy, and while the third row can seat two adults comfortably, it would be nice if Hyundai found a way to accommodate a third passenger back there—especially given that the Palisade manages to squeeze in three. Still, cargo capacity is excellent: 21.9 cubic feet behind the third row and 46.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, giving the Ioniq 9 plenty of practicality for road trips and family outings.
Range and charging performance are standout strengths. The Ioniq 9 Calligraphy offers 311 miles of range, and thanks to Hyundai’s 800-volt architecture, the battery can charge from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes on a 350-kW fast charger. The inclusion of the NACS charging port expands its accessibility to Tesla’s vast Supercharger network—an increasingly crucial feature for EV buyers.
For all of its strengths, the Calligraphy trim has a few missteps. At a starting price of $77,090, and rising toward the $80,000 mark with options, some interior materials simply don’t match the premium aspirations of the top trim. Certain plastics feel out of place given the price tag. Buyers who want a better value may gravitate toward the base S trim, which starts at $61,055.
At the end of the day the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 Calligraphy delivers what many families want from an electric SUV: strong performance, exceptional comfort, generous range, and upscale tech. It may not thrill on a winding road, but it excels at quiet, cushioned cruising—exactly what most buyers in this segment are looking for. Hyundai’s EV lineup continues to mature, and the Ioniq 9 sits comfortably at the top, offering a compelling mix of luxury and practicality without requiring a luxury-brand badge.
