The Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9 aren’t just competing in the same market segment—they’re practically siblings locked in a family rivalry. Both three-row electric SUVs ride on the same E-GMP platform and fall under the Hyundai Motor Group umbrella, and their numerical names only add to the confusion for shoppers.
But for many buyers, the decision between the two just got simpler. Kia is holding the line on pricing for the 2026 EV9, while Hyundai has introduced the Ioniq 9 at a higher price point. That difference could be all it takes to tilt the balance in Kia’s favor—especially for budget-conscious families looking to go electric without breaking the bank.
However, the leasing landscape tells a different story. According to HARJA, this month’s lease offers from Kia and Hyundai vary significantly, bringing the Ioniq 9’s lease costs much closer to those of the EV9. In fact, the Hyundai Ioniq 9’s lease deal appears more attractive when factoring in its benefits compared to the Kia, making it a compelling option despite the higher sticker price.
Lease Deals Narrow the Pricing Gap Between the Ioniq 9 and EV9
To start, let’s look at their Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRPs), focusing on comparable mid-level trims. The Hyundai Ioniq 9 SE is priced at $62,765 before destination fees, whereas the Kia EV9 Light Long Range comes in at $57,900. Including additional on-road costs, the price difference stands at $4,970 — a notable gap considering how similar these two SUVs are beneath the surface.
However, the Ioniq 9 SE is currently available with a lease deal of $449 per month for 36 months, requiring $4,999 due at signing. This effectively raises the monthly cost to about $588 before taxes and fees. Meanwhile, the Kia EV9 lease is priced at $429 per month for the same term and upfront amount, resulting in an effective monthly cost of $568. That means the EV9 is just $20 per month less expensive than the Hyundai, narrowing the gap considerably.
Better Lease Incentives Level the Playing Field
While a significant price difference exists between the two models—likely influenced by the Ioniq 9’s longer-range battery—their design philosophies set them apart. The Kia EV9 leans into a sportier aesthetic, whereas the Ioniq 9 favors a more refined and practical style. This practicality gives the Hyundai an edge in interior space, especially when it comes to cargo capacity, making it a strong contender for families prioritizing roominess.
HARJA also highlights that the Ioniq 9 benefits from more attractive lease incentives, totaling around $13,000—significantly higher than the EV9’s $7,500 offer. Although the Kia EV9 boasts a stronger residual value of 64% compared to the Ioniq 9’s 60%, along with a lower interest rate of 4.2% versus Hyundai’s 6% APR, these advantages aren’t enough to close the gap created by the Ioniq 9’s superior lease credits.
These figures specifically apply to the trims mentioned, so other versions may present different comparisons—either more favorable or less so. Additionally, there are other incentives available, such as loyalty bonuses for owners of competing brands. To secure the best deal, it’s wise to shop around and carefully compare all available offers.
