Hyundai's all-electric SUV model, the IONIQ 9, has been awarded the title of "World's Best Large SUV" at the "2026 Women's World Car of the Year Awards" (WWCOTY). This prestigious award once again demonstrates Hyundai's commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainability in the large SUV segment.
A jury of 84 female automotive journalists from 54 countries meticulously evaluated models in all categories based on criteria such as safety, quality, design, performance, ease of driving, environmental impact, and price-performance ratio. The IONIQ 9 stood out as a model that surpassed approximately 20 competitors in its segment. Ayça Çizer, an automotive journalist and content creator, represented Türkiye at WWCOTY.
WWCOTY CEO Marta García said regarding the award, “The Hyundai IONIQ 9 clearly demonstrates how advanced technology can seamlessly combine with everyday usability. Its fast and efficient charging capabilities, exceptional interior spaciousness, and high overall quality level set a new benchmark in the large electric SUV segment.” Hyundai also received this award in 2024 with its SANTA FE model.
What Makes the IONIQ 9 One of the World's Leading SUVs
The IONIQ 9, the flagship of Hyundai's acclaimed IONIQ product range, represents the pinnacle of the brand's innovation and engineering.
• Design Excellence: Combining aerodynamic elegance with futuristic aesthetics, the IONIQ 9 presents a powerful and striking presence.
• Spacious and Comfortable Interior: The three-row interior, configurable for six or seven passengers, offers ample luggage space for family use while providing a superior comfort experience.
• Sustainability and Efficiency: Built on Hyundai’s award-winning E-GMP platform, the IONIQ 9 can charge its battery from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes at compatible charging stations thanks to its advanced 800-volt technology.
Notable Awards Won by IONIQ 9
Launched in Türkiye last November, the IONIQ 9 has received numerous prestigious awards within a year:
• 2025 TopGear.com Electric Awards
• 2026 German Premium Car of the Year, awarded by German Car of the Year (GCOTY)
• Carwow Car of the Year Award 2026: Most Comfortable Car of the Year
• 2025 Australian Good Design Awards (Automotive category) – Gold Award and Best Exterior Design
• Red Dot Award (Automobile and Motorcycle category)
• 2025 iF Design Awards (Automotive category)
A Global Reference Point in the Automotive World
WWCOTY, the only global automotive awards program judged exclusively by women automotive journalists, is considered a key benchmark for automotive excellence and reaches an audience of 500 million people worldwide. The awards highlight models that reflect diverse perspectives and respond to the evolving needs of drivers. Along with five other category winners, the IONIQ 9 is now a nominee for WWCOTY’s most prestigious title, the “Supreme Winner” award. The final winner will be announced in March.
