Get ready to enter the electric SUV arena where the Lucid Gravity and the Hyundai Ioniq 9 face off like two electrified gladiators. Priced at $80,000, these models embody a new era of electromobility, where luxury and performance meet to appeal to modern families. Who will emerge victorious from this duel?
Closer on paper than they appear
The Lucid Gravity Touring starts at $79,900, while the Grand Touring version, with more range and luxury, climbs to around $95,000. For this comparison, we pit the Gravity against a fully equipped Hyundai Ioniq 9 Calligraphy Design AWD, priced at approximately $80,000. Surprise! It’s not just the price that brings them together; on paper, their specifications often sit side by side.
Both vehicles compete in power, range, and passenger capacity. Classified as SUVs, they behave more like large electric estates. The Hyundai is a bit more subdued, while the Lucid adopts a decidedly sporty attitude. Regardless, these two behemoths are perfect examples of how to transport a family comfortably in a fully electric vehicle.
Lucid Gravity Touring 2026 (base price of $79,900)
Lucid
To be transparent, I had the chance to drive the Grand Touring, which offers more power and range. That said, it was an excellent starting point to understand what the Touring model represents. The latter uses a smaller battery, which impacts fast charging speeds, but it retains a capacity of 400 kW and adopts the NACS charging standard (the one from Tesla). With around 628 horsepower under the hood, expect a range between 350 and 400 miles.
But that’s not all! Beyond its on-road capabilities, the Gravity can raise its suspension for light off-road outings. With its RangeXchange feature, it can even charge another electric vehicle with up to 9.6 kW of power. In terms of dimensions, the Gravity measures 198.2 inches long and weighs around 6,000 lbs, with a remarkable drag coefficient of 0.24 Cd. Additionally, it can tow up to 6,000 lbs when properly equipped.
Behind the wheel of the Lucid Gravity
The Gravity displays three distinct personalities. It can glide like a serene flagship, offering comfort worthy of a S-Class. With the push of a button, it transforms into a sports car; the steering, suspension, and power delivery tighten brilliantly, providing performance worthy of the best. The Touring model may be a bit less agile, but its DNA remains intact. And let’s not forget the off-road mode that raises the body and recalibrates the dynamics for light trail use. Impressive, although the articulation and design of the tires limit extreme adventures.
Inside, calm reigns supreme, with only minor noises from the mirrors and tires manifesting at high speeds. A small quirk: the electric windows operate in a surprisingly slow manner. The panoramic glass roof above the driver and front passenger is tinted but lacks a shade, a detail that Lucid should reconsider. In terms of comfort, the seats are excellent, and the third row ranks among the best in its class. With an impressive cargo capacity of up to 120 cubic feet in a two-row configuration, it drops to 111.9 cubic feet with the third row folded. A front trunk of 8.1 cubic feet adds an extra practical touch.
Ioniq 9 Calligraphy Design AWD 2026 ($80,645 with options)
Hyundai
The Hyundai Ioniq 9 Calligraphy combines two motors to develop 422 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, powered by a 110.3 kWh battery capable of charging at 350 kW DC. It is now NACS compatible as well. However, the range slightly drops in this high-end version to around 335 miles.
In terms of dimensions, it has a wheelbase of 123.2 inches and an overall length of 199.2 inches; its weight is very similar to that of the Lucid, nearing 6,000 lbs. The major visual difference lies in the height: the Lucid ranges between 65.2 and 68 inches (depending on the suspension setting), while the Ioniq 9 stands taller at 70.5 inches.
Behind the wheel of the Hyundai Ioniq 9
The Ioniq 9 may not be as fast or agile as its Lucid rival, but it excels in comfort and stability. It’s not a model built for tight corners; it shines during urban commutes and long highways. Despite its imposing size, its maneuverability is excellent, and parking is a breeze.
It rests on a traditional chassis composed of McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear with steel springs and gas dampers. The ground clearance varies between 6.9 and 7 inches depending on the chosen trim. This system prioritizes ride comfort and stability over adjustability, providing a smooth and predictable experience on the road. It’s heavy but confident on the road, with steering that feels more relaxed than sporty.
Inside, the Ioniq 9 is quiet, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed for practicality. The seats offer good support; however, the third row is a bit narrower than that of the Lucid but remains sufficient for short trips with adults. In terms of cargo capacity, it falls behind the Gravity: expect only 21.9 cubic feet behind the third row, up to 46.7 cubic feet if you fold it down, and a maximum of 86.9 cubic feet if both rear rows are lowered.
Final thoughts
This comparison is clear: the Lucid Gravity is undoubtedly the choice for the driver seeking dynamic performance combined with a touch of luxury. The Hyundai Ioniq 9, on the other hand, prioritizes everyday comfort, affordability, and practicality in daily life. Both electric vehicles are appealing to modern families, each with a distinct personality. While rivals like Volkswagen and Kia slowly approach from the shadows, these two models emerge as cutting-edge examples of high-end electric practicality.
Official sources:
Joe Santos
Lucid Motors
