Hyundai Motor UK has started 2026 with a decisive statement of intent, as the all-electric IONIQ 9 is crowned Large Car of the Year at the 2026 Company Car & Van of the Year Awards. The recognition further strengthens Hyundai’s growing reputation as one of the most consistent and credible players in the UK’s rapidly evolving electric vehicle landscape.
Presented in Leatherhead on 19 January 2026, the award celebrates vehicles that deliver genuine value to fleet and business users, balancing efficiency, practicality and desirability. In a competitive large car category, the IONIQ 9 stood out for its exceptional comfort, premium execution and long-range electric capability, positioning it as a compelling choice for modern company car drivers.
Setting the benchmark in the large car segment
As Hyundai’s flagship electric SUV, the IONIQ 9 represents the brand’s most advanced expression of electric mobility to date. Judges praised its ability to meet the demanding requirements of fleet use without compromising on refinement or driver appeal, a balance that has become increasingly important as businesses transition towards electrified fleets.
The Company Car & Van of the Year Awards are widely regarded as a key barometer of real-world suitability, with particular emphasis on whole-life costs, usability and everyday performance. In this context, the IONIQ 9’s blend of intelligent design, strong range credentials and high-quality interior proved decisive.
Long-range confidence with ultra-fast charging
Built on Hyundai’s next-generation E-GMP 2.0 platform, the IONIQ 9 delivers up to 370 miles of all-electric range (WLTP) from its substantial 118 kWh battery. This long-range capability is a critical factor for fleet drivers who require flexibility and minimal downtime, whether covering regional routes or longer motorway journeys.
Equally important is the vehicle’s 350kW ultra-fast charging capability, enabling rapid top-ups during the working day. For businesses focused on efficiency and productivity, the ability to add significant range in a short time reinforces the IONIQ 9’s suitability as a dependable long-distance electric vehicle.
Performance is equally assured. The dual-motor all-wheel drive variant produces up to 380 PS, delivering smooth, confident acceleration and stability across a range of driving conditions. The result is an electric SUV that feels composed and effortless, even when fully laden or travelling at speed.
Premium comfort designed for real-world use
Inside, the IONIQ 9 has been engineered to provide a calm and flexible environment that works just as well for business travel as it does for family life. With seating for up to seven, the spacious cabin offers impressive versatility, allowing fleet users to adapt the layout to suit passengers, luggage or equipment.
Premium materials, configurable seating and a carefully considered interior layout create a sense of understated luxury rather than excess. This approach resonates strongly with company car drivers who want comfort and quality without sacrificing practicality.
Technology plays a central role in shaping the experience. The IONIQ 9 features a 14.6-inch panoramic infotainment display, supported by generative AI-powered voice control that allows drivers to manage key functions intuitively. Predictive systems, over-the-air updates and Hyundai’s latest SmartSense safety suite further enhance confidence, connectivity and long-term usability.
Together, these elements position the IONIQ 9 as a showcase for Hyundai’s vision of AI-powered mobility, where advanced technology works seamlessly in the background to support safer, more relaxed journeys.
Continuing a strong awards legacy
The Large Car of the Year win builds on Hyundai’s impressive recent track record at the Company Car & Van of the Year Awards. The IONIQ 5 claimed overall Car of the Year honours in 2022, followed by Large Electric Car of the Year in 2023, while the KONA secured Medium Car of the Year in 2024.
This consistent recognition highlights not only individual model success, but also the depth and coherence of Hyundai’s electrified product strategy. Across multiple segments, the brand has demonstrated its ability to deliver vehicles that resonate with both fleet managers and drivers.
A clear signal to fleet and private buyers
Commenting on the award, Ashley Andrew, President of Hyundai & Genesis UK, emphasised the broader significance of the achievement.
“It’s fantastic to see the IONIQ 9 recognised as Large Car of the Year at the 2026 Company Car & Van of the Year Awards. This recognition highlights the continued excellence of our electric vehicle line-up and the progress we’ve made in making EVs both practical and desirable for fleet and private buyers alike. The IONIQ 9 perfectly embodies Hyundai’s commitment to innovation, quality, and leadership in sustainable mobility.”
As UK businesses continue to prioritise electrification, awards such as this send a clear signal. The Hyundai IONIQ 9 is not only a technological flagship, but a credible, real-world solution for organisations seeking comfort, efficiency and confidence in their transition to electric mobility.
