Hyundai’s three-row electric SUV turned out to be a surprise hit in its home market. To celebrate the IONIQ 9 sweeping the “2026 Car of the Year” awards, Hyundai launched new discounts across its EV lineup.
Hyundai IONIQ 9 sweeps Korea’s 2026 Car of the Year
After going on sale in early 2025, the IONIQ 9 quickly made its presence felt in Korea. Not only does it look massive on the road, but Hyundai’s flagship EV is also having a big impact in its home market.
Hyundai sold five times as many IONIQ 9s in Korea last year as Kia’s three-row electric SUV, the EV9, which shares a platform with it.
According to the Korea Automobile Mobility Industry Association (KAMA), Hyundai IONIQ 9 sales reached 8,227 in 2025. Kia, on the other hand, sold just 1,549 EV9s. The IONIQ 9 even outsold Kia’s other electric vehicles, including the EV4 (8,110) and EV5 SUV (2,193).
Local media have praised Hyundai’s electric family hauler for its long-range capabilities (up to 532 km), fast charging, spacious interior, and a starting price of 60 million won ($41,500).
Its vehicle-to-load (V2L) function has also been a hit among fathers, providing a mobile power source for camping or powering external electronic devices.
The IONIQ 9 swept the 2026 Car of the Year awards, Korea’s most recognized automobile award. Judged by the Korea Automobile Journalists Association, the Korea Automobile Specialty Journalists Association, and JoongAng IIBO.
To celebrate the IONIQ 9 sweeping the awards with a triple crown, Hyundai launched a new promotion, offering more discounts across its EV lineup.
Hyundai is offering a 1 million won discount ($650) for those who buy a new IONIQ 5, IONIQ 6, IONIQ 9, or Kona Electric in March.
In addition, from March 1-15, Hyundai is holding an online event with the chance to win EV discount coupons worth up to 10.4 million won ($7,100).
A company official said, “The Ioniq 9’s achievement of the Car of the Year Triple Crown is the result of Hyundai’s electrification technology being proven by experts.”
Those who buy an IONIQ 5, IONIQ 6, or Kona Electric in March through Hyundai’s EV Burden Down Promo also get body care service and an auto insurance deductible.
What about those in the US? Hyundai is still running its Hyundai Getaway Sales Event through March 2, offering up to $10,000 off EVs, including the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 9. Hyundai is also offering 0% APR financing for 72 months, plus an extra $5,000 off the IONIQ 5 ($3,000 off the IONIQ 9).
If you’d like to see one in person or take it for a drive, you can use the links below to see what’s available near you.
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