Hyundai IONIQ 9 vs Lexus RZ
Two electric SUVs go head to head. Which EV is the better buy for Australian drivers in 2026?
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Hyundai IONIQ 9 starts from $119,750 before on-road costs, while the Lexus RZ opens at $135,000. That makes the Hyundai IONIQ 9 the more affordable entry point by $15,250.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $131,725 and $148,500 respectively.
Both models qualify for Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) exemption, which is a significant advantage for salary-sacrificed novated leases. Depending on your tax bracket, this can save $5,000-$15,000+ per year compared to an equivalent ICE vehicle.
Safety Rundown
Both the Hyundai IONIQ 9 and Lexus RZ hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Hyundai IONIQ 9 packs more ADAS features with 10 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 5 in the Lexus RZ.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. The Hyundai IONIQ 9 adds a 360-degree camera that the Lexus RZ misses.
Feature Showdown
The Hyundai IONIQ 9 features a 12.3-inch touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital dash, while the Lexus RZ gets a 14-inch display and 7-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Hyundai IONIQ 9 stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, panoramic roof, ventilated seats, Bose audio and ambient lighting that you will not find on the Lexus RZ. The Lexus RZ counters with Apple CarPlay and Mark Levinson audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the Hyundai IONIQ 9 gets nappa leather upholstery while the Lexus RZ offers synthetic leather. Climate control is 3-zone in the Hyundai IONIQ 9 and 2-zone in the Lexus RZ.
Drivetrain
The Hyundai IONIQ 9 runs a pure electric powertrain producing 314kW and 700Nm of torque, sent through a single-speed reduction gear to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 5.2 seconds.
The Lexus RZ responds with a Electric Motor making 230kW and 435Nm, paired to a automatic. It gets to 100km/h in 5 seconds.
The Hyundai IONIQ 9 has the clear power advantage at 314kW vs 230kW. In the real-world sprint, the Lexus RZ is 0.2s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 110.3kWh (Hyundai IONIQ 9) vs 71.4kWh (Lexus RZ). DC fast charging peaks at 350kW (Hyundai IONIQ 9) vs 150kW (Lexus RZ).
Space & Comfort
The Hyundai IONIQ 9 measures 5,060mm long on a 3,130mm wheelbase, 255mm longer than the Lexus RZ at 4,805mm (2,850mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Hyundai IONIQ 9 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 338L in the Hyundai IONIQ 9 and 522L in the Lexus RZ, giving the Lexus RZ a 184L advantage. The Hyundai IONIQ 9 seats 7 vs 5.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.2m diameter
Average
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years (Hyundai IONIQ 9) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Lexus RZ). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Hyundai IONIQ 9 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, or prefer Hyundai's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Lexus RZ if: You need more boot space, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Hyundai IONIQ 9 takes 4 of 7 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the Lexus RZ has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Hyundai IONIQ 9 and Lexus RZ?
The Hyundai IONIQ 9 is the cheapest at $119,750 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Lexus RZ by $15,250.
Which has the longest driving range?
The Hyundai IONIQ 9 has the most range at 600km (WLTP).
Which charges fastest?
The Hyundai IONIQ 9 accepts the highest DC charging at up to 350kW.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Hyundai IONIQ 9 and Lexus RZ all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Lexus RZ has the largest boot at 522L.
Which can tow the most?
The Hyundai IONIQ 9 has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,500kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Hyundai IONIQ 9 makes the most power at 314kW. The Lexus RZ is quickest to 100km/h in 5s.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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