Hyundai’s Electrified Vehicles Light up the Automotive World’s Experts

The automotive world is noticing and celebrating Hyundai’s electric vehicles! The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 three-row SUV and Ioniq 5 two-row SUV are among the winners of the prestigious “Wards 10 Best Engines & Propulsion Systems” awards. 

The WardsAuto folks know about engines, and it’s telling both that Hyundai took two of the 10 spots, and that only one standard internal-combustion engine model made this year’s list. It’s also telling that the Ioniq 5 made the list for the second year running.

The Ioniq 5, which debuted in 2022, has wowed reviewers since it appeared. Car and Driver’s reviewer’s verdict is that it is “Cool-looking, fun to drive and pleasant to be in … [it] continues to deliver the clever features and excellent value that has made it a Car and Driver multiple-award winner … returning to our 10Best Trucks and Editors’ Choice lists for 2025” With an EPA-estimated range of from 245-318 miles, depending on the version, “it’s an electric SUV that’s easy to love.” 

There’s huge excitement around Hyundai’s latest entry into the EV fold, the 2026 Ioniq 9, which won the Wards 10 Best award, as well as just winning the 2025 Northwest Automotive Press Association (NWAPA) Drive Revolution Vehicle Competition as “Vehicle of the Year and Best Battery Electric Vehicle.” Its hybrid sibling, the 2025 Santa Fe Hybrid Calligraphy AWD, pulled down the “Best Hybrid Electric Vehicle” award. 

The Ioniq 9 has thrilled auto experts since it made its appearance this spring. Seating seven, with a range of between 311-335 miles, up to 422 hp and 5000 lbs. of towing capacity, it’s a true EV powerhouse.  

Car and Driver called it “Space Station Number 9” and said that “The Ioniq 9‘s real charm is how it rounds off the literal and metaphorical edges that make owning an EV a hassle: decent range, fast charging, and modern interior amenities. Consider the Game Boy lighting elements and Space: 1999 styling a bonus.”

AutoTrader enthused “As a road trip warrior, family hauler, ferry for the soccer team, Costco haul champion, comfortable, efficient daily driver, and, of course, as an EV with tons of range and super fast charging, the Ioniq 9 checks all the boxes and is sure to be a hit with busy families on the go.”

And Autoblog’s Nathan Adlen in his “brutally honest review,” said, “With usable cargo space, comfortable seating, and an ideal location for our furry friends, the Hyundai Ioniq 9 is an ideal transport for kids, dogs, and just about anything else.” 

Could it be your ideal vehicle? We think so, but read the experts and then come see it for yourself at Schomp Hyundai.