I Drove the Hyundai Ioniq 9 for a Week and It Outperformed the Tesla Model Y
A week behind the wheel showed me how the Ioniq 9 blends long range, real comfort, and smart tech into a family EV that feels more complete than the Model Y.
I spent a full week with the Hyundai Ioniq 9, and by the end of it, I felt like I was driving something that understands real people better than the Tesla Model Y. I have driven the Model Y before, and I agree it is quick and clever, but the Ioniq 9 brings a different kind of confidence. It feels practical, warm, and thoughtfully built. This is exactly what we all want when we buy a family electric SUV.
The first thing you will notice is the design. The Ioniq 9 looks bold with its wide stance and sharp pixel lights. It has a strong road presence that makes people turn their heads. Some may find the rear shape a little boxy. However, once you get used to it, the whole body starts to look solid and futuristic. Compared to the soft and simple curves of Model Y, the Hyundai feels more expressive.
Inside is where the Ioniq 9 really wins. The cabin is huge, open, and extremely comfortable. The third row fits adults without squeezing them, and the Calligraphy trim I tested felt almost like a lounge. High quality materials, quiet insulation, a massive glass roof, and even extendable footrests make long trips relaxing. Tesla’s cabin is clean but can feel cold. On the other hand, Hyundai gives you warmth and personality.
On the road, the Ioniq 9 surprised me. It has 422 horsepower and goes from 0 to 60 in 4.4 seconds. The Model Y may feel quicker, but the Hyundai feels more controlled. It accelerates with confidence and stays calm at highway speeds. The ride is smooth with very little wind or road noise. In my real testing, the range showed 401 miles in Eco mode at a 97 percent charge, which is more than enough for everyday driving.
Hyundai Ioniq 9 vs Tesla Model Y
| Feature | Hyundai Ioniq 9 | Tesla Model Y |
| Starting Price | Around $59,000 | Around $45,000 |
| Max Price (Fully Loaded) | Around $77,000 | Can reach $70,000+ with upgrades |
| Horsepower | 422 hp | Around 384 hp (AWD) |
| 0 to 60 mph | 4.4 seconds | 4.6 seconds |
| Official Range | 311 miles | 327 miles |
| Real World Tested Range | Up to 401 miles in Eco mode | Slightly lower than rated |
| Seating Capacity | 3 rows, adults fit in third row | 2 rows only |
| Interior Style | Warm, premium, comfortable | Minimal and futuristic |
| Infotainment | Easy interface, physical controls, wireless CarPlay | Single screen, no CarPlay |
| Driver Assist | Highway Driving Assist 2, predictable | Full Self Driving, powerful but inconsistent |
| Ride Comfort | Very quiet and smooth | Firmer, more road noise |
| Overall Feel | Family friendly and refined | Sporty and tech forward |
Technology is another area where Hyundai shines. The infotainment system is easy to use, the graphics are sharp, and you get physical buttons for the basics. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work perfectly. Driver assist features like Highway Driving Assist 2 and remote smart parking give you nearly hands free driving without the unpredictability of Tesla’s Full Self Driving mode.
You also get thoughtful extras like ambient lighting, a premium Bose sound system, and a feature that lets you talk to people in the third row through the speakers.
When it comes to price, the Ioniq 9 starts higher than the Model Y, but once you factor in upgrades and features, the Tesla can climb quickly. The Hyundai gives you a lot of premium features built in, plus more space.
After spending a week with the Ioniq 9, I can confidently say it is not trying to copy Tesla. It is trying to offer something more practical, more comfortable, and more human. If you are comparing it with the Model Y, you should test drive it yourself. You may find the better EV is the one that feels more complete, not just faster.
