The IONIQ 5 is one of the most popular EVs right now outside of Tesla, and now Hyundai’s three-row electric SUV is finding its niche.
Hyundai drives growth as demand for EVs rises
If you’re seeing more Hyundai vehicles on the road, it’s not by chance. The Korean automaker is selling more cars in the US than ever, thanks to its electrified SUVs, including hybrids and pure-electric models.
The all-electric IONIQ 5 is among the top-selling EVs in the US right now, behind the Tesla Model Y and Model 3.
Meanwhile, Hyundai’s three-row electric SUV, the IONIQ 9, is gaining traction. Sales are up 380% through the first half of 2026.
While it has consistently ranked among the most popular models since it went on sale in late 2021, Hyundai upped the ante with the 2025 IONIQ 5, its first EV built in the US at the new Metaplant outside of Savannah, GA.
The IONIQ 5 now features up to 318 miles of range, a refined style, an updated infotainment system, and a native NACS charge port.
2026 Hyundai IONIQ 5 (Source: Hyundai)
Starting at just $35,000, it’s also one of the most affordable electric vehicles in the US. Hyundai reduced prices by up to $9,800 on certain trims after the federal tax credit expired at the end of September to offset the loss.
The lower prices “reflect Hyundai’s commitment to affordability and its long-term strategy,” the company said.
Hyundai’s electric vehicle conquest rates (Source: Peter Johnson/ Electrek/ Hyundai)
So far, the strategy is paying off. When we visited the Metaplant in April, Hyundai told Electrek that its electric vehicles, including the IONIQ 5 and three-row IONIQ 9, are attracting new customers to the brand at a higher rate than its ICE or HEV models.
The IONIQ 5 had a 69.8% conquest rate last year, while the IONIQ 9 had a 64.3% conquest rate. Hyundai’s Elantra N ranked third (61.9%), followed by the Palisade (61.2%) and Kona Electric (60.9%).
2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 (Source: Hyundai)
Both are built in the US at Hyundai’s Metaplant America, enabling the company to avoid heavy import tariffs and speed up deliveries.
The 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 5 starts at just $35,000. That’s for the base SE Standard Range model, which has an EPA-estimated range of up to 245 miles.
Upgrading to the longer-range SE RWD version costs $37,500 and bumps the driving range to 318 miles on a single charge.
2026 Hyundai IONIQ 5 (Source: Hyundai)
With DC fast charging up to 350 kW, the IONIQ 5 can add about 178 miles of range in as little as 15 minutes, getting you back on the road.
Inside, the electric SUV is more spacious than it looks. While it’s about the same size as the Tucson, the IONIQ 5 has a longer wheelbase than the three-row Palisade, opening up space for rear passengers.
Earlier this year, the 2026 IONIQ 5 was named the “best-of-the-best EV” in Kelley Blue Book’s 2026 Best Buy Awards.
The interior of the 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 5 (Source: Hyundai)
Looking for more space? Hyundai’s three-row electric SUV, the IONIQ 9, starts at $60,555 and offers an EPA-estimated range of 335 miles.
The IONIQ 9 boasts 163.5 cubic feet of passenger space, which is even more than the Ford Explorer (152.9 cubic feet).
At least one Hyundai dealership is struggling to keep up with demand as buyers seek relief from higher gas prices. Vermont’s WCAX news reported a few weeks ago that demand for electric vehicles has been so strong that Burlington Hyundai ran out of inventory and now has EV buyers on a waitlist.
2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 interior (Source: Hyundai)
With some of the most affordable prices and monthly lease options, it’s easy to see why. Hyundai is offering IONIQ 5 leases as low as $269 per month (for 24 months with $3,999 due at signing), which is about as cheap as you’ll find for any vehicle, gas or EV, these days.
The three-row IONIQ 9 is listed for lease at $369 per month (36-month term, with $3,999 due at signing).
Both are available with 0% financing, plus up to $3,000 off ($1,000 for the IONIQ 5), and no payments for 90 days through its summer sales promo.
Interested in seeing one for yourself? The links below can help you find local offers, browse available models, and schedule a test drive near you.
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