DecodedCarsFord Explorer vs Hyundai Ioniq 9
2026 Ford Explorer vs 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 — two standard SUVs compared on efficiency, size, safety and reliability.
The short version
That works out to about $1,950 a year less in fuel for the Hyundai Ioniq 9 (EPA estimate, 15,000 miles).
Across all model years since 2005, the Hyundai Ioniq 9 has had fewer recall campaigns (3 vs 105).
The two cars
The 2026 Ford Explorer is a standard SUV offered with 2 engines (2.3L 4-cyl turbo and 3.0L 6-cyl turbo) and rear-wheel drive and part-time 4-wheel drive. It measures about 199 inches long and 79 inches wide on a 119-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 4,458 lb (4dr SUV).
The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 is a standard SUV powered by electricity and rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. It measures about 199 inches long and 78 inches wide on a 123-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 5,747 lb (Preferred AWD 4dr SUV).
Basics
Efficiency
Performance & space
Safety & reliability
Interest
Green = clearly better. Prices are not included. How we calculate this →
Which one should you choose?
Choose the Ford Explorer if…
It doesn't clearly beat the Hyundai Ioniq 9 on any measure we track.
Choose the Hyundai Ioniq 9 if…
- You want an EV with more range (335 miles)
- You want a hybrid or electric option
- You want more standard driver-assist tech
- You put reliability history first (3 vs 105 recalls since 2005)
Pros & cons of each
2026 Ford Explorer
- AWD / 4WD available
- Lots of standard safety tech4 of 5 key driver aids standard on the versions we checked.
- 15 recallsMore than similar models (about 1). Confirm repairs with the VIN.
2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9
- Long EV rangeUp to 335 miles on a charge (EPA).
- AWD / 4WD available
- Lots of standard safety tech5 of 5 key driver aids standard on the versions we checked.
Full 2026 Ford Explorer specs →Full 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 specs →Compare fuel costs for your driving →Compare size & garage fit →