Genesis GV70 vs Hyundai IONIQ 9

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 presented a polarizing design that some found appealing while others did not. Its aerodynamic shape, inspired by smooth pebbles and midcentury modern sofas, was crafted to house seven passengers comfortably. Measuring 5,060 millimetres in length with a 3,130 mm wheelbase, the Ioniq 9 offered impressive interior volume, akin to a Honda Pilot in length but with a wheelbase longer than a Chevy Tahoe. Despite its size, it achieved a 0.27 drag coefficient, making it more aerodynamic than larger SUVs like the Rivian. However, its design, with a swooping roofline and stubby rear end, was not universally considered beautiful. The rear view, with LED taillights wrapping around the tail, was its most distinctive angle.

In contrast, the 2026 Genesis GV70 exemplified Genesis's "Athletic Elegance" design philosophy with a refined style and strong grille. The GV70's face was sharpened for 2026 with a redrawn crest-shaped grille and two-line headlamps. The Sport trim featured a unique grille pattern, dark chrome moulding, and 21-inch wheels. Inside, the GV70's dashboard was dominated by a 27-inch OLED screen, with redesigned interior lighting adding a techy glow. The Sport model featured carbon fibre trim and flashy interior colours, while more mellow luxury options were available. The GV70's design was polished and attractive, standing out on the road.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 was equipped with a 110.3-kWh battery pack on Hyundai's e-GMP platform. The base Essential trim featured a single rear-mounted 160-kW electric motor, producing 215 horsepower. Other trims had a dual-motor AWD system, with the Preferred AWD generating 303 hp and the Preferred AWD+ producing 422 hp. Despite its power, the Ioniq 9 offered impressive energy efficiency, often exceeding the 500-kilometre range estimate. The Ioniq 9's chassis was softly sprung, providing a smooth ride but lacking cornering sophistication. It was quiet, with active noise cancellation and sound-absorbing tires. The RWD Essential could tow 1,587 kilograms, while AWD models could tow 2,268 kilograms. Charging options included NACS superchargers and CCS-port Level 3 chargers, with varying charging times.

The 2026 Genesis GV70 featured a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. AWD was standard across the lineup. The 3.5T Sport trim had a 3.5-litre turbocharged V6, delivering 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. The GV70 offered Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ driving modes, along with a new Terrain Mode for different surfaces. The Comfort mode provided a relaxing experience, while Sport+ allowed for more performance. New hydro bushings and Highway Body Motion Control improved ride comfort. The 3.5T trim included a Road Preview feature for enhanced suspension control.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 focused on family-SUV practicality, seating seven with a middle-row bench or six with captain's chairs in the Ultimate Calligraphy Package. The sliding centre console improved access for middle-row passengers. The Ioniq 9 offered 1,086 millimetres of legroom in the middle row and 813 mm in the third row. The rear doors provided easy access, and dual-zone climate control was standard. Cargo space was 620 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,323 and 2,462 litres with seats folded. The small front trunk was best for storing the charging cable.

The 2026 Genesis GV70 provided ample space for tall drivers in the front seats, though the 27-inch OLED screen was partially blocked by the steering wheel. The centre console featured a rotary shifter and infotainment dial, which could be confusing. Rear seats offered headroom and shoulder room, but legroom was less generous. The sloping roofline made the back seat feel cramped. Cargo space was adequate but less than competitors like the BMW X3.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 featured dual curved 12.3-inch displays, offering a familiar infotainment interface. SiriusXM Satellite Radio, wireless Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay were standard, along with a wireless charging pad. The Ioniq 9 had six USB-C ports for device charging. The 14-speaker Bose audio system provided crisp sound quality, impressing with balanced tones.

The 2026 Genesis GV70 boasted a 27-inch OLED display with over-the-air updates and customizable themes. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, along with a 360-degree Surround View Monitor. The digital gauge cluster was customizable, displaying navigation and ADAS readouts. Voice commands controlled climate, infotainment, and windows, though some features were not fully functional. Genesis Digital Key and fingerprint authentication added convenience.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 included a comprehensive suite of ADAS features, such as collision avoidance, lane guidance, driver attention warning, and Highway Driving Assist 2. The Preferred AWD's Luxury package and Preferred AWD+ offered a surround-view monitor and blind-spot view monitor. Crash-test ratings were not yet available.

The 2026 Genesis GV70 offered a robust package of safety features, including forward collision avoidance, lane keeping assist, blind-spot collision avoidance, and more. Highway Driving Assist II used capacitive sensors for hands-on detection. The 2025 GV70 received high safety ratings, and the 2026 model was expected to perform similarly.