Hyundai’s certainly had our number, and it’s no different in 2025, with the new Ioniq 9 battery-electric family hauler the latest to successfully crack the Wards 10 Best Interiors and UX code for pace-setting design and functionality.
The name Ioniq evokes both electrical charge and classic architecture, and those concepts are abundant in the vibrant displays and flowing lines of the Ioniq 9’s upscale and contemporary cabin.
Our 6-passenger tester in top-level Calligraphy design package trim, starting at $51,000 manufacturer’s suggested price, welcomes occupants – and signals its BEV DNA –with its light beige/dark gray interior color scheme and uncluttered design. Unique marbleized trim flows along the dash, and dot-patterned stylized door panels and brightwork add visual pop elsewhere. (View slideshow: 2025 Wards 10 Best Interiors & UX Winner: Hyundai Ioniq 9)
The dash is linear in its overall design, with ultra-slim venting that discretely runs along its entire length, but its layers are finely sculpted with rounded edges that play to the rest of the cabin’s theme that features circular door handles and curvy lines throughout.
Upscale touches include the aluminum sill plates at both door and hatch openings as well as metal-trim brightwork for the accelerator, brake and dead pedals. Subtle mood lighting completes the luxury vibe.
The Ioniq 9’s dazzling infotainment screen is another eye-grabber, running continuously from A-pillar to center console with a slight bend to better present itself to the driver. As with other Hyundais making our list in the past, the infotainment touchscreen is crisp, clear and easily navigated with large icons providing entrée to a variety of apps. A sharp, multicolor head-up display rounds out the gage package.
Bluetooth connectivity is quick and intuitive, and there are USB-C ports throughout the cabin for keeping electronics charged. The graphics for the embedded navigation system are top notch, with accurate renderings of buildings along the route. And physical controls for the HVAC and audio systems make those easy to operate while driving.
The infotainment screen offers a variety of design themes drivers can select depending on their mood – and Hyundai says more will be made available through over-the-air updating. The current batch of options recalls Hyundai’s Pony model of old or reflects nature. Digital keys – via smartphones or wearables – mean drivers can avoid fumbling around for fobs to access the vehicle.
There’s a host of sustainable materials deployed about the interior, from the faux leather seats to the fabric used for the headliner and much of the plastic trim.
But at the end of the day, the Ioniq 9 is about hauling people. And here’s where it really shines.
Captain’s chairs up the comfort quotient, with the first two rows fully reclining to allow maximum relaxation during charging stops. Access to all positions is easy, with power-operated center seats that quickly clear the path to the third row. The center console slides rearward and can open from the back for easier access for second-row occupants.
Both the third and second rows fold nearly flat with the touch of a button to maximize storage capacity, and there’s additional cargo-carrying capability found in the Ioniq 9’s frunk. Depending on the sound system selected, there’s also a clever storage cubby in the front doors in the space left vacant by absence of a subwoofer, though the terrific 14-speaker Bose audio system may be tough for most to pass up.
“The upscale family wants tech, but it also wants comfort,” notes one 10 Best judge. “And the Ioniq 9 fully delivers.”
In short, Hyundai simply does it again. The Ioniq 9’s displays are top tier; its technology is intuitive to operate and its interior both highly functional and planted firmly on the cutting edge.
