Hyundai IONIQ 9 caught with bold new design features: Is this the XRT trim?

Hyundai’s first three-row electric SUV looks to be in line for an XRT upgrade. The Hyundai IONIQ 9 was spotted for the first time with rugged new XRT-like design elements. Check out the new photos that just surfaced below.

With the IONIQ 9 set to arrive early next year, we are already getting a look at what appears to be a new off-road XRT trim.

After teasing it for what seemed like forever, Hyundai finally unveiled the three-row electric SUV at the LA Auto Show last month. Hyundai said the IONIQ 9 will “redefine EV mobility” with a massive lounge-like interior and sleek new Aerosthetic design.

At 199.2″ long, 78″ wide, and 70.5″ tall, the IONIQ 9 is slightly shorter than a Rivian R1S (201″ long, 82″ wide, 77″ tall). Based on the same E-GMP platform, it’s about the same size as sister company Kia’s EV9.

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Hyundai loaded its flagship SUV with the latest connectivity tech, software, and premium features. The interior features dual 12.3″ infotainment and driver cluster screens, which form a panoramic display. First—and second-row passengers can relax in fully reclined seats that even include leg rests.

Ahead of deliveries, we caught a glimpse of the three-row electric SUV out in public (see the video here) earlier this month. At first glance, the IONIQ 9 looks even better on the road. Now, Hyundai appears to be testing a new trim.

Is Hyundai launching an IONIQ 9 XRT trim?

The newly surfaced photos, courtesy of NewCarScoops, reveal rugged new design elements, hinting Hyundai’s IONIQ 9 is in line for an XRT upgrade.

Despite the camouflage, you can see new features like all-terrain tires and an added tow wrench on the front bumper. Looking closer, the mystery model also includes a souped-up suspension system.

According to TheKoreanCarBlog, Hyundai’s Head of Design, Simon Loasby, said the company is “working on two distinct projects —N and XRT—apart from the standard lineup” during the IONIQ 9 reveal event last month.

The upgrades are similar to the new 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 XRT model. Hyundai’s upgraded US-made IONIQ 5 gains a new XRT trim with red tow hooks, black side stills and window trim, and other XRT-exclusive design elements.

Hyundai announced that the 2025 IONIQ 5 XRT will start at $55,400 and have an estimated EPA range of up to 259 miles. The base SE RWD Standard Range model starts at $42,500.

With a massive 110.3 kWh battery pack, the IONIQ 9 has an estimated EPA range of 335 miles (620 km WLTP). The Long-Range RWD trim, powered by a 160 kW rear motor, can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in 9.4 seconds. A Performance trim gains another 160 kW front motor for a 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) time in just 5.2 seconds.

Hyundai’s three-row electric SUV will be available in the US and Korea in the first half of 2025. It will then roll out to other global markets like Europe and India. More info, including prices, will be revealed closer to launch.

Source: NewCarScoops, TheKoreanCarBlog