The 2025 VinFast VF9 is one of the first three-row electric SUVs and also one of the least expensive when accounting for standard features and options that are generally costly extras on other vehicles. In our ongoing series of comparing the VF8 and VF9 to their main competitors, we have found that, even when up against the cream of the crop from Germany, Japan, Korea, and America, VinFast models hold up nicely… especially for a car company that’s only been around since 2017.
The First-Ever Hyundai Ioniq 9
This time, we’re taking a look at the newly released Hyundai Ioniq 9, the company’s first-ever three-row EV SUV. The Ioniq 9 shares some of its architecture with the Kia EV9, which has come up against the VF9 in a previous article. But, while there are some similarities between the Hyundai and the Kia, there are plenty of differences.
A Price That’ll Make You Take a Step Back
The 2026 Ioniq 9 has a starting price of $60,555 for the base, rear-wheel drive S trim. That jumps up to $79,090 for the top Calligraphy Design trim level. Amazingly, that trim level only comes in two colors that both cost $1,000 and has no options.
The VF9 Is Perfectly Priced
VinFast has priced the 2025 VF9 from $62,900 and is available in Eco and Plus. Both trim levels are standard with dual-motor all-wheel drive, Head-Up Display (HUD), a 123-kWh battery, and each has 402 horsepower with 457 lb-ft of torque. The Eco has an EPA-rated 330 miles of driving range, with the Plus offering 291 miles. Each trim also features vegan leather seating surfaces for ultimate luxury and comfort.
Inside The VF9 Is Where the Party Is
The interior of the VF9 features a 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment display that offers control of everything in the vehicle and shows your speed, navigation, music, and the like. Thanks to the standard HUD, you don’t need a gauge cluster as every piece of pertinent information is displayed on the windshield, so you never have to take your eyes off the road.
The Plus Trim Offers Some Unique Features
If you decide to get the Plus trim level, the standard rear bench seat in the Eco becomes captain’s chairs with a center console for rear passengers and a built-in wireless charger. The captain’s chairs are 8-way power adjustable with heated, ventilated, and massaging seats. Rear occupants will also get an 8-inch screen on the center console to view content.
The Hyundai May Seem Less Expensive, But…
While at first glance you may think that the Hyundai is cheaper, but not so fast. As previously mentioned, the base Ioniq 9 S model appears to be a bargain, but it is rear-wheel drive-only, does not offer a Head-Up Display, and is quite slow with its 215 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. It also only offers five extra miles of range at 335, so basically the same as the VF9. It isn’t until you step up to the SE model that costs $64,365, where you can get AWD, but still no HUD. The S and SE trims only offer cloth seats, which is kind of ridiculous for a so-called premium SUV that’s going to run you more than $60,000. You’ll have to spend $67,920 to get Hyundai’s H-Tex leather-like seats. And if you would like to have a Head-Up Display in your Ioniq 9, you’ll need to jump up and spend $76,590 for the second-highest Calligraphy trim level. That is absolutely ridiculous.
And You Get a Charger, And You Get a Charger
Whether you choose the Eco or Plus, the VinFast VF9 has all occupants covered in the device charging department. Standard on both trims is a total of six USB-A charge ports with one 90-watt USB-C port that can charge any laptop currently on the market. If you have the Plus, the second-row passengers will get two extra USB-A ports.
Sony RIDEVU Is the Gamechanger You’ve Been Waiting For
To keep everyone entertained, the VF9 is offered as standard with Sony RIDEVU, Sony Pictures Entertainment’s in-car service offering 2,000 shows and movies to watch from their archives. When parked, content can be viewed on the 15.6-inch display, or any device connected to the standard WiFi hotspot can access the app and watch movies or shows. Hyundai definitely doesn’t offer a service like that, let alone a free service.
Hyundai’s Warranty Just Can’t Keep Up
Don’t forget, VinFast vehicles come with the world’s best warranty with 10 years or 125,000 miles of bumper-to-bumper coverage, plus 10 years and unlimited miles of coverage for the battery system. The Ioniq 9 is covered by a 5-year, 60,000-mile standard warranty, with the battery being taken care of for 10 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Don’t Settle for Good When You Can Have Great
In 2025, there is no reason to settle for a good product that costs a lot of money when you can have a great product that doesn’t break the bank in comparison. VinFast may be a young company trying to make a name for itself, but the VF9 comes out swinging and isn’t just another EV SUV. It’s special and unique and offers buyers a fresh take they deserve.
Why You Should Choose Ewing VinFast
Ewing VinFast of Plano offers the best prices on all new VinFast EVs and used cars. The sales staff is well educated on the vehicles and can help you pick out the right car for you. And the finance department will happily assist you with your EV questions and needs when the time comes. Their fantastic service department will also ensure your vehicle stays in the best condition.