Hyundai’s electric SUVs are making a strong impression in the US market, with the IONIQ 5 and three-row IONIQ 9 drawing in new customers and driving sales growth. As demand for electric vehicles continues to rise, Hyundai’s strategy of building EVs in the US and offering competitive pricing is paying off.
Hyundai’s EV Sales Surge in 2026
The all-electric Hyundai IONIQ 5 has become one of the most popular EVs in the US, trailing only the Tesla Model Y and Model 3 in sales. The three-row IONIQ 9 is also gaining momentum, with sales up 380% through the first half of 2026.
Both models are produced at Hyundai’s Metaplant America facility near Savannah, Georgia, allowing the company to avoid import tariffs and deliver vehicles more quickly to US customers.
Affordable Pricing and Features Drive Demand
The 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 5 starts at $35,000 (~AUD 50,458) for the SE Standard Range model, which offers an EPA-estimated range of up to 245 miles (~394 km). The SE RWD version, priced at $37,500 (~AUD 54,062), increases range to 318 miles (~512 km) on a single charge.
Hyundai reduced prices by up to $9,800 (~AUD 14,128) on certain IONIQ 5 trims after the federal tax credit expired, aiming to keep its EVs accessible. The IONIQ 9, Hyundai’s three-row electric SUV, starts at $60,555 (~AUD 87,299) and delivers an EPA-estimated range of 335 miles (~539 km).
Both models support DC fast charging up to 350 kW, enabling the IONIQ 5 to add about 178 miles (~286 km) of range in just 15 minutes. Spacious interiors and updated infotainment systems further enhance their appeal.
Conquest Rates and Customer Appeal
Hyundai’s electric SUVs are attracting new customers at a higher rate than its internal combustion or hybrid models. The IONIQ 5 achieved a 69.8% conquest rate last year, while the IONIQ 9 reached 64.3%. Other models like the Elantra N, Palisade, and Kona Electric also posted strong conquest rates.
Earlier this year, the 2026 IONIQ 5 was named the ‘best-of-the-best EV’ in Kelley Blue Book’s 2026 Best Buy Awards.
Regional Availability and Market Response
Both the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 9 are built in the US, making them widely available to American buyers. Reports from Vermont’s WCAX news indicate that at least one dealership, Burlington Hyundai, ran out of EV inventory due to high demand, resulting in a waitlist for buyers.
Hyundai is offering attractive lease deals, with the IONIQ 5 available for as low as $269 (~AUD 388) per month (24 months, $3,999 (~AUD 5,765) due at signing) and the IONIQ 9 at $369 (~AUD 532) per month (36 months, $3,999 (~AUD 5,765) due at signing). Both models are also offered with 0% financing and up to $3,000 (~AUD 4,325) off through summer promotions.
Competitor Comparison
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 competes directly with the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E in the mid-size electric SUV segment. The IONIQ 9, a three-row electric SUV, is closely related to the Kia EV9 and offers more passenger space than the Ford Explorer (163.5 cubic feet vs. 152.9 cubic feet).
With competitive pricing, strong range figures, and US-based production, Hyundai’s electric SUVs are positioned as strong alternatives to these established rivals.
Historical Context
In 2024, Hyundai sold 4.14 million vehicles globally, representing a 1.8% year-over-year decline. The company delivered 705,010 units in Korea during the same period.
Despite the slight dip in overall sales, Hyundai’s focus on electrified SUVs has helped it capture a growing share of the EV market, particularly in the US.
Why this matters
Hyundai’s success with the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 9 demonstrates the growing appeal of electric SUVs among US buyers. By building these models domestically and offering competitive pricing, Hyundai is able to meet demand and attract new customers to the brand.
The strong conquest rates and rapid sales growth for the IONIQ 9 highlight a shift in consumer preferences toward spacious, family-friendly electric vehicles.
What this means for buyers
For buyers considering an electric SUV, Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 9 offer compelling value with long range, fast charging, and spacious interiors. With aggressive pricing, lease deals, and US-based production, these models are accessible and available for quick delivery in most regions.
Shoppers should compare features and pricing with direct competitors like the Tesla Model Y, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and Kia EV9 to find the best fit for their needs.
Related coverage from The Electric Viking
For more on EV performance and market trends, see 2023 Tesla Model 3 LFP Battery Shows Noticeable Degradation After 26,000 Miles, Rivian R2 70-MPH Highway Range Test: InsideEVs Reports Real-World Results, and Hyundai Ioniq 5 Becomes Top-Selling Non-Tesla EV in the U.S. for 2026.
Key Specs
- Base Price (IONIQ 5 SE Standard Range): $35,000 (~AUD 50,458)
- Base Price (IONIQ 5 SE RWD): $37,500 (~AUD 54,062)
- Base Price (IONIQ 9): $60,555 (~AUD 87,299)
- EPA Range (IONIQ 5 SE Standard Range): 245 miles (~394 km)
- EPA Range (IONIQ 5 SE RWD): 318 miles (~512 km)
- EPA Range (IONIQ 9): 335 miles (~539 km)
- DC Fast Charging (IONIQ 5): Up to 350 kW
- Passenger Space (IONIQ 9): 163.5 cubic feet
Source
Images sourced from: caranddriver.com, electrek.co
