The electric Range Rover has arrived, but a Hyundai offers a more practical alternative at a significantly lower price point. The new Range Rover EV550 features an 118kWh battery and two electric motors producing 543bhp, enabling the 2.8-tonne SUV to accelerate from 0 to 62mph in 4.5 seconds. Charging on 350kW DC points can replenish the battery from 10 to 80 percent in roughly 22 minutes.
A Hyundai Ioniq 9 Ultimate, meanwhile, uses an 110kWh battery and 800-volt electronics to generate 303bhp, accelerating the 2.5-tonne vehicle in 6.7 seconds and reaching a 10-to-80 percent charge in 24 minutes. While the Range Rover boasts a higher power output and quicker charging capability on paper, the Ioniq 9 remains more than adequate for family duties, offering a 6.7-second sprint that is more than sufficient for highway merging and overtaking maneuvers.
Space and Comfort
Packaging constraints prevent the electric Range Rover from offering a seven-seat configuration. The Hyundai Ioniq 9 provides more versatility with a six-seat layout featuring American-style captain’s chairs, or a conventional seven-seater that offers ample room for passengers. Interior quality is competitive, with a modern design, a slideable centre console, and numerous storage cubbies. While the Range Rover offers premium upholstery options, the Ioniq 9 provides a cabin that feels isolating and soothing, aided by double-glazed windows and active noise cancellation through the audio system. This focus on acoustic insulation ensures that road noise and wind rush are minimized, creating a serene environment that rivals the premium feel of its British rival.
For those prioritizing practicality, the price difference is decisive. The base Ioniq 9 starts at £64,995, while the all-wheel-drive Ultimate model is priced at £73,920. This contrasts sharply with the electric Range Rover, which begins at £154,070. This substantial gap means buyers can save more than £70,000 or secure a monthly finance deal that is several hundred pounds cheaper. While the Range Rover holds brand appeal, the Ioniq 9 delivers the core benefits of a large electric family vehicle with significant financial savings.
