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Hyundai IONIQ 9 named German Premium Car of the Year 2026

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Hyundai IONIQ 9, the full-size electric SUV on E-GMP, wins German Premium Car of the Year 2026. 800V fast charging 10-80% in 24 min, 3-row cabin for families.
Michael Powers, Editor

The full-size electric SUV Hyundai IONIQ 9 has been named German Premium Car of the Year 2026. The title arrived just three months after the model reached the German market. According to the independent GCOTY jury, the IONIQ 9 stood out with its mix of aerodynamic design, fast charging, and a spacious interior that allows for personalization. Securing national recognition so quickly suggests the package lands squarely with what premium EV buyers are looking for.

Built on the E-GMP platform, the IONIQ 9 uses an 800‑volt architecture: when plugged into a suitable station, the battery charges from 10 to 80 percent in 24 minutes. The three-row cabin seats six or seven and is designed for comfort on long journeys. In practice, that blend of speed at the plug and space on board shortens downtime between legs and makes long-distance travel easier for everyone.

Hyundai says the new flagship reflects the brand’s ambition to create innovative, human-centered electric vehicles. The IONIQ 9 has become one of the standout models among new cars of 2026 and has strengthened the brand’s position in the premium segment. Judging by the early momentum, it’s a clear marker of where the company intends to compete.