Volvo XC90 vs Hyundai IONIQ 9

The 2025 Volvo XC90 maintained its reputation for timeless elegance with a refresh that subtly modernized its classic design. The updated "Thor’s Hammer" headlights appeared more robust, and the grille's new diagonal slats added a sophisticated, woven look. The B5 AWD mild hybrid and T8 eAWD PHEV models, both in Volvo's "Bright" exterior theme, showcased large wheels that filled the arches beautifully. Inside, the XC90's understated yet well-appointed interior featured a new centre console layout, a standout Orrefors crystal shift knob, and three distinct upholstery options, including a new herringbone weave textile made from recycled polyester.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 presented a bold design that divided opinions, drawing inspiration from smooth pebbles and midcentury modern sofas. Its aerodynamic shape housed seven passengers comfortably, with a 5,060 mm length and a 3,130 mm wheelbase. Despite its size, the Ioniq 9 achieved a 0.27 drag coefficient. The rear view was particularly distinctive, with LED taillights wrapping around the tail. The Ioniq 9 offered seven paint colours, with trim-specific options, and wheels ranging from 19 to 21 inches. Inside, the spacious and airy cabin featured flat floors, a sliding centre console, and a panoramic sunroof in higher trims. However, the interior had a significant amount of plastic, and the seats lacked thigh support.

The 2025 Volvo XC90 offered two powertrains in Canada, both with standard AWD and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The B6 mild hybrid, a turbo- and e-supercharged four-cylinder engine, produced 295 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. The T8 PHEV combined a four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and an 18.8-kWh battery, delivering a total of 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. The PHEV offered up to 53 km of pure electric range. The XC90's suspension featured Frequency Selective Damping technology, providing improved ride comfort and stability.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 featured a 110.3-kWh battery pack on Hyundai's e-GMP platform. The base Essential trim had a single rear-mounted 160-kW motor, producing 215 hp. Other trims had dual-motor AWD systems, with the Preferred AWD generating 303 hp and the Preferred AWD+ producing 422 hp. The Ioniq 9 impressed with energy efficiency, often exceeding the estimated 500-km range. Its softly sprung chassis provided a smooth ride, though it lacked agility in corners. The Ioniq 9 offered a towing capacity of 1,587 kg for RWD and 2,268 kg for AWD models. Charging options included NACS superchargers and CCS-port Level 3 chargers, with varying charge times.

The 2025 Volvo XC90's new centre console layout improved practicality, moving the wireless charging pad below the centre stack. This change enhanced small-item storage and kept phones out of sunlight. The XC90 offered standard USB-C ports in the first and second rows, with dedicated cupholders and a panoramic roof for third-row occupants. The XC90's interior dimensions provided competitive space, with 922 mm of headroom and 810 mm of legroom in the third row, making it a strong contender among midsize three-row SUVs.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 focused on family-friendly dimensions, 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 mm of legroom in the middle row and 813 mm in the third row. The rear doors provided easy access, and dual-zone climate control with air vents in all rows was standard. Cargo space ranged from 620 litres behind the third row to 2,462 litres with seats folded, though the front trunk was limited.

The 2025 Volvo XC90 featured a larger, sharper touchscreen infotainment system with a new UI, emphasizing fewer taps and key functions on the homescreen. The Android-based system included Google Built-In and standard Apple CarPlay. The Ultra package added a head-up display and a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system, offering four distinct listening modes.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9's infotainment system comprised dual curved 12.3-inch displays, standard SiriusXM, wireless Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. The wireless charging pad struggled to keep up with high-demand devices. Six USB-C ports provided ample charging options. The Luxury package and Preferred AWD+ configurations included a 14-speaker Bose audio system, delivering impressive sound quality.

The 2025 Volvo XC90 earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, with standard ADAS features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping aid, and blind-spot information. It lacked a hands-free highway-driving system found in some competitors.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 had not yet been rated by NHTSA or IIHS. It included standard ADAS features, such as collision avoidance and lane-guidance technologies, along with Highway Driving Assist 2 for supervised hands-free driving. The Luxury package and Preferred AWD+ offered additional safety features like a surround-view monitor and blind-spot view monitor.