Lincoln Nautilus vs Hyundai IONIQ 9

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 presented a polarizing design that some found appealing due to its unique and aerodynamic shape, while others were less impressed. Inspired by various elements like smooth pebbles and midcentury modern sofas, the Ioniq 9 aimed to offer a spacious interior for seven passengers. Measuring 5,060 millimetres in length with a 3,130 mm wheelbase, it provided ample interior volume, comparable to larger SUVs. Despite its size, the Ioniq 9 achieved a commendable 0.27 drag coefficient, enhancing its aerodynamic efficiency. However, its design, with a swooping roofline and stubby rear end, was not universally praised for beauty. The rear view, featuring LED taillights wrapping around the tail, was particularly distinctive.

In contrast, the 2026 Lincoln Nautilus exuded a stately presence with its wide body and contrasting black roof and pillars. The grille, reminiscent of a horse collar, featured various trim elements depending on the package, and was flanked by sleek headlights. The Nautilus's design included integrated door handles and a spear-shaped element along the upper doors, adding to its sophisticated look. The rear boasted a spoiler and full-width taillight, sitting on standard 19-inch alloy wheels, with larger options available. The Jet Appearance Package offered additional styling enhancements, including satin dark luster wheels and black accents, further elevating its luxurious appeal.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 was equipped with a 110.3-kWh battery pack on Hyundai's e-GMP platform, offering a range of power outputs depending on the trim. The base Essential trim featured a 160-kW rear-mounted motor producing 215 horsepower, while the dual-motor AWD system in other trims delivered 303 hp in the Preferred AWD and 422 hp in the Preferred AWD+. Despite its weight, the Ioniq 9 provided a smooth ride, though it lacked agility in corners. It offered a towing capacity of up to 2,268 kilograms for AWD models and supported fast charging options, including Tesla-style NACS superchargers.

The 2026 Lincoln Nautilus, on the other hand, offered a standard turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD. The hybrid variant, which added a larger turbo and electric motor, increased output to 310 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, improving acceleration slightly. The Nautilus prioritized comfort over sportiness, with a MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension. It featured adaptive dampers in the Reserve trim, providing a smooth ride across various drive modes, though handling remained soft.

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 focused on family-friendly practicality, offering seating for seven with a middle-row bench or six with captain's chairs in the Ultimate Calligraphy Package. The sliding centre console enhanced accessibility for middle-row passengers. With 1,086 millimetres of legroom in the middle row and 813 mm in the third row, it provided ample space, though the third row felt tight for adults. The Ioniq 9 offered 620 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,462 litres with seats folded. Dual-zone climate control, heated seats, and a heat pump were standard, though seat adjustability was limited.

The Lincoln Nautilus emphasized comfort with power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a heated steering wheel. Ventilated front seats, 24-way power seats with massage, and heated rear seats were available. The second row offered 1,095 millimetres of legroom, with sculpted seats and a fold-down armrest. Cargo space was generous, with 1,030 litres behind the rear seats and 2,020 litres with seats folded. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available.

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 featured dual curved 12.3-inch displays for its infotainment system, offering wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM, and a wireless charging pad. The system included six USB-C ports for device charging and a 14-speaker Bose audio system in higher trims, providing impressive sound quality.

The Lincoln Nautilus showcased a 48-inch screen at the base of the windshield, displaying essential information, complemented by an 11.1-inch touchscreen for infotainment controls. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 5G Wi-Fi hotspot, and a wireless charger. The Nautilus offered a 14-speaker Revel system and a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D unit, along with unique features like Digital Scent and Lincoln Rejuvenate for relaxation.

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 came with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including collision avoidance, lane guidance, driver attention warning, and Highway Driving Assist 2 for supervised hands-free driving. Higher trims added a surround-view monitor and blind-spot view monitor.

The Lincoln Nautilus was equipped with a robust array of standard safety features, including a surround-view camera, adaptive cruise control, lane centring, blind spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Lincoln BlueCruise offered hands-free driving on mapped highways, though it required driver attention. The Nautilus received high safety ratings, with five stars from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS.