Sneak Peek: Hyundai Ioniq 7 Electric SUV Breaks Cover with Minimal Camouflage

In the realm of electric vehicles, anticipation is building for Hyundai's upcoming three-row flagship, the Ioniq 7. Recently spotted in traffic wearing sleek yet minimal camouflage, the Ioniq 7 provides us with a clear glimpse of what's to come. As Hyundai gears up for the second half of 2024, when the Ioniq 7 is set to hit Australian showrooms, the latest spy shots offer exciting insights into the design, features, and the shared platform with the Kia EV9. Let's dive into the details and unravel the mysteries surrounding this electric SUV.

Design Language

The spy shots, first published on the Korean site Bobae Dream, showcase the Ioniq 7 adorned in body-hugging camouflage, hinting that the flagship electric SUV is nearing the end of its testing phase. Notably, the camouflage is relatively minimal, allowing us to discern key design elements. Hyundai's two-tiered lighting design language continues, featuring a horizontal daytime running light paired with vertical headlights. The front exudes a squared-off aesthetic, distinguishing it from the Kia EV9, despite both SUVs sharing the same e-GMP underpinnings.

Changes from Concept to Reality

Drawing inspiration from the 2021 Seven concept, the Ioniq 7's production version retains the sharp rise of the belt line after the B-pillar. However, the most significant departure from the concept lies in the rear design. Unlike the all-glass tailgate of the concept, the production model adopts a more conventional setup with a standard tailgate and larger vertical tail lights. A curved LED strip runs across the top of the rear window, adding a touch of modern flair.

Interior Space and Features

With a generous 3200mm wheelbase, the Ioniq 7 promises a "completely new dimension of space" inside. The interior, as hinted by previous spy shots, shares similarities with the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 EVs, offering a comfortable and familiar environment for Hyundai enthusiasts.

Performance and Platform

Sharing the E-GMP dedicated electric vehicle platform with the Kia EV9, as well as the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6, the Ioniq 7's drivetrain specifics are yet to be officially disclosed. However, drawing parallels with the EV9, we anticipate a range of powertrain options. The EV9 features a single-motor drivetrain for the base rear-wheel-drive model and a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup for the Earth and GT-Line variants.

Pricing and Sales Projection

While exact pricing details for the Ioniq 7 remain undisclosed, a ballpark estimate puts it in the same range as its Kia counterpart, with prices starting from $97,000 before on-road costs. Hyundai aims to sell around 6000 units of its Ioniq-branded electric vehicles in 2024, doubling the numbers from the previous year.

As Hyundai continues to expand its electric vehicle lineup, the Ioniq 7 emerges as a promising addition, offering a blend of distinctive design, advanced features, and eco-friendly performance. The forthcoming release is not only a testament to Hyundai's commitment to electrification but also aligns with the brand's broader strategy of providing electrified options across its SUV segments. The second half of 2024 is poised to mark the arrival of the Ioniq 7, making waves in the competitive electric SUV landscape.