Hyundai IONIQ 9 Clinches 2025 NWAPA Vehicle of the Year Award

In a remarkable achievement, Hyundai's all-electric IONIQ 9 AWD Performance Calligraphy has been honored as the Vehicle of the Year at the 2025 Northwest Automotive Press Association (NWAPA) Drive Revolution Vehicle Competition. In addition to this prestigious title, it also secured the Best Battery Electric Vehicle award, solidifying Hyundai's position as a leader in innovative automotive technology.

The 2026 IONIQ 9's impressive performance is driven by its advanced design and practicality, featuring a spacious three-row layout that caters to modern families. It boasts an EPA-estimated electric range of up to 311 miles, making it a reliable choice for both daily commutes and long-distance travels. The vehicle's capabilities were highlighted by Olabisi Boyle, senior vice president of product planning and mobility strategy at Hyundai Motor North America, who emphasized that the IONIQ 9 was designed to exceed the expectations that consumers have for electric SUVs.

Tom Voelk, the president of NWAPA, stated that the competition's battery electric vehicle category was highly competitive. The IONIQ 9's combination of design aesthetics, practical range, and convenience features placed it ahead of its rivals, delighting auto journalists and media professionals.

Apart from the accolades for the IONIQ 9, the 2025 Santa Fe Hybrid Calligraphy AWD also received recognition as the Best Hybrid Electric Vehicle. With its sleek design and multi-functional capabilities, the Santa Fe Hybrid is built on a longer wheelbase, providing a refined driving experience and spacious interior perfect for family outings.

The NWAPA Drive Revolution event took place over three days in September near Ridgefield, Washington, where 15 distinguished automotive media professionals evaluated 15 vehicles across various categories including internal combustion engines, hybrids, and battery electric vehicles. The judging criteria involved meticulous vehicle assessments that covered ride quality, powertrain performance, design elements, and value for money. This thorough approach ensures that the winners are genuinely reflective of real-world driving experiences.

Hyundai's ongoing commitment to innovative vehicle design and performance is noteworthy. The company aims to balance advanced technology with customer needs, as demonstrated through the IONIQ 9's native NACS charging port for added convenience. Charging time estimates suggest that it takes approximately 24 minutes to charge the vehicle from 10% to 80% on a 350-kW ultra-fast charger, a feature particularly appealing for family road trips and busy lifestyles.

The success of these electric and hybrid models signals Hyundai's ambitious roadmap in the electric vehicle market. With significant investments in R&D and manufacturing in the U.S., including its major assembly plant and upcoming facilities, Hyundai is poised to enhance its electric vehicle lineup while significantly contributing to the local economy. In fact, Hyundai operations together with its independent dealers generate over $20 billion annually and support around 190,000 jobs nationwide.

This accolade only reinforces Hyundai’s continued momentum in the automotive industry as they work towards a future defined by sustainability and innovation. With the successful launch of the IONIQ 9, consumers can expect more cutting-edge features and improved range capabilities in the years to come, as Hyundai continues to push the boundaries of electric mobility.

For more details on Hyundai’s offerings and future initiatives, visit Hyundai News.