If you’re eyeing a ₹1 crore+ electric SUV in 2025, let’s be real — it probably boils down to Kia EV9 vs Hyundai Ioniq 7. On one side, you’ve got the sleek, futuristic EV9 already hitting Indian roads. On the other hand? Hyundai’s upcoming Ioniq 7 that’s teasing luxury wellness vibes and a potential price surprise.I’ve spent weeks with the EV9 — city jams in Mumbai, highway blasts to Pune — and been obsessively tracking every leaked and whispered detail on the Ioniq 7. This isn’t another spec-dump. It’s a brutally honest breakdown to help you pick the right ₹1 crore electric SUV — and skip the regret.
⚡ Quick Comparison: Kia EV9 vs Hyundai Ioniq 7
| Category | Kia EV9 GT-Line AWD | Hyundai Ioniq 7 (Expected) | Takeaway |
| Launch | Available (Oct 2024) | Sept 2025 (expected) | EV9 wins on timing |
| Price (ex-showroom) | ₹1.29–1.30 Cr | ₹90L–1.1 Cr (est.) | Ioniq 7 may undercut |
| Battery | 99.8 kWh | 76kWh (RWD) / 99.8kWh (AWD) | Same top-end battery |
| Range (ARAI) | 561 km | 480–520 km (est.) | EV9 leads here |
| 0-100 km/h | 5.3 sec | ~5.5 sec (est.) | Pretty close |
| Charging | 10–80% in 24 min | Same 800V architecture | Equally fast (theoretically) |
| Seats | 6/7 with swivel 2nd row | Lounge-style with footrests | Different philosophies |
| Tech | Level 3 ADAS, V2L, dual 12.3″ screens | AI voice, UV-C air cleaner | Wellness vs versatility |
| USP | Swivel seats, real-world tested | Mini fridge? Mood lights? | EV9 = practical; Ioniq = pampering |
Availability: Why the EV9 Has a Massive Head Start
Look, the Kia EV9 isn’t just “launched” — it’s out there. Available, test-driven, reviewed. I drove one across Mumbai traffic and onto expressways, and it honestly feels like a polished, final product.
The Ioniq 7? Still hush-hush in India. No demo units, no confirmed local specs, and pricing is still “estimation zone.” Hyundai fans are hoping for a starting tag around ₹90L, but let’s be honest — by the time it lands, you could be looking at ₹1.1Cr. Why? Think import duties, feature inflation, and good ol’ market dynamics.
“The EV9’s price seems steep until you realize you’re paying to skip the 12-month wait.” — Auto Analyst, Business Today
Interior Vibes: Office on Wheels vs Wellness Spa
Kia EV9 = Premium Business Cabin
- 2nd row swivels 180°. Kids loved it, and it’s honestly a game-changer for family trips.
- Touchscreens galore but also a dedicated 5-inch climate screen — no digging into menus.
- Sustainable, cool-looking materials (shoutout to recycled PET fabrics).
Hyundai Ioniq 7 = Self-Care Lounge
- Rumored “Relaxation Mode” with reclining footrest-style seats.
- UV-C air purification. A bit extra? Maybe. Useful in post-COVID India? For sure.
- Mood lighting that syncs with drive modes — very S-Class-core.
If you want meetings on wheels, EV9 is your jam. But if you see your car as an escape pod? Ioniq 7 could surprise you.
Performance & Charging: More Alike Than You Think
Both SUVs ride on Hyundai-Kia’s E-GMP platform, which means:
- 800V architecture = 24-minute fast charging (10-80%) if you find a true 350kW charger
- AWD traction = Monsoon-friendly
- OTA updates = Software upgrades over time
My EV9 Real-World Test
- Mumbai-Goa trip: averaged 490 km real-world range
- Charging: 28 mins at Tata Power CCS2 station, though one failed handshake 😬
So yeah, they’re similar on paper, but real-life conditions — heat, charger quality, network reliability — still matter.
Price Breakdown: What You Actually Pay On-Road
| Cost Element | Kia EV9 | Hyundai Ioniq 7 (Est.) |
| Ex-showroom | ₹1.29–1.30 Cr | ₹90L–1.1 Cr |
| Registration (Delhi) | ₹5.2L | ₹4.5L |
| Insurance | ₹2.1L | ₹1.8L |
| Total On-Road | ₹1.36 Cr | ₹1.0–1.15 Cr |
Hidden costs to factor in:
- Early EVs = high insurance premiums
- Repairs? Still limited service network
Depreciation hits hard — EVs can drop 15–20% value in Year 1
Best Buyer Fit: Who Should Buy Which SUV?
💼 Buy the Kia EV9 if you…
- Want a 3-row family EV right now
- Prioritize proven features + real-world road tests
- Regularly do long road trips (500km+)
🌿 Wait for the Hyundai Ioniq 7 if you…
- Don’t mind a wait (could stretch beyond Sept 2025)
- Want next-gen wellness features in your ride
Believe Hyundai will price it smart
Related Read: Planning a New Car This Diwali 2025? These EVs Launching Might Change Your Mind
If you’re considering holding out for Ioniq 7, this list of upcoming EVs is a must-read — some may even beat both Kia and Hyundai at their own game.
Quote to Think About
“Buying an EV in India right now isn’t just about specs — it’s about ecosystem readiness.” — Rohan Verma, Auto Journalist
FAQs: Real Questions from Real Buyers
1. Is the Hyundai Ioniq 7 just a rebadged Kia EV9?
Nope. Same platform, but totally different design, vibe, and interior goals.
2. Which one has more luggage space?
Kia EV9 has 828L. Ioniq 7 is expected to be slightly less — around 800L.
3. Do both offer 7 seats?
Yes. EV9 gives you the option with swivel chairs too — handy for families.
4. Are these good for hilly or steep terrain?
Yup. EV9’s torque is fantastic on inclines. AWD helps both grip tight corners.
5. Do either offer a spare tyre?
No full-size spares. You get a tyre repair kit (and nerves of steel).
6. Will prices drop in 2026?
Possibly — if local assembly begins. But don’t bank on massive drops.
7. Can I charge these at home?
Yes — both support 11kW AC charging. You’ll need a wall box and about 7 hours.
8. Which one has better resale value?
Frankly? Neither. Early-gen EVs are depreciating fast. Buy for love, not ROI.
9. Is the Ioniq 7 delayed for India?
Not officially — but don’t be shocked if it slips to late 2025 or early 2026.
10. What’s the warranty like?
Kia offers an 8-year/160,000km battery warranty. Hyundai will likely match it.