Hyundai IONIQ 9 recognized in Wards 10 Best Engines 2025

Hyundai IONIQ 9 has been named among Wards 10 Best Engines & Propulsion Systems for 2025, marking the brand’s 19th award since 1995.

Hyundai has secured another milestone in powertrain innovation as the all-electric IONIQ 9 earned a spot on the Wards 10 Best Engines & Propulsion Systems 2025 list. It is the company’s 19th recognition from Wards since the competition was launched in 1995.

The IONIQ 9 was one of four electric vehicles honored this year. Judges praised its instant response even in Normal mode and noted that performance remains strong well beyond 85 mph. Range was another decisive factor: the SUV delivers over 300 miles according to EPA estimates, with the RWD S trim rated up to 335 miles per charge. In Europe, the model is certified at up to 620 km under WLTP standards.

Built on Hyundai’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the IONIQ 9 carries a 110.3 kWh battery and supports native 800-volt charging. This enables a 10–80% recharge in under half an hour on high-capacity stations, while also allowing Vehicle-to-Load capability. With a drag coefficient of 0.259, the SUV combines efficiency with stability at highway speeds.

Production is based in Georgia at Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America, a facility designed to build up to 300,000 EVs annually. The plant plays a central role in Hyundai’s strategy to expand U.S. manufacturing and strengthen its presence in one of the world’s most competitive EV markets.

Among this year’s winners, the IONIQ 9 stands alongside three other electric models: the Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack, the Lucid Gravity, and the redesigned Nissan Leaf. The rest of the list includes hybrid and combustion systems, highlighting how electric technology is steadily gaining recognition against established powertrains.

This achievement continues Hyundai’s track record at Wards, where past awards have recognized models such as the IONIQ 5, IONIQ 6, Kona Electric, and the hydrogen-powered Nexo. Now in its 31st year, the competition is regarded as one of the most prestigious honors in the automotive industry for powertrain excellence.

The official awards ceremony will take place on October 23, 2025, at Lovett Hall in Dearborn, Michigan. For Hyundai, the accolade reinforces its commitment to electrification and underscores its place among the frontrunners of the mobility transition.