Best 7 Passenger EV? The Hyundai Ioniq 9 vs the Volkswagen ID Buzz
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A small segment full of interesting competition
There are only a handful of all-electric vehicles that can carry seven or more passengers. Models from BMW, Cadillac, Lucid, Mercedes-Benz, Rivian, Tesla, and Volvo offer that capacity, as does the Kia EV9, which shares its platform with the Hyundai Ioniq 9. Oddly enough, many forget that the Volkswagen ID Buzz can also seat seven—perhaps because it's technically a minivan, unlike the more SUV-shaped competitors.
Still, in my estimation, the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and the Volkswagen ID Buzz represent the most forward-thinking, family-friendly EVs on the market today. While both are pricey, neither is outrageous compared to luxury rivals. On paper, they have a lot in common—but in person, they're remarkably different.
Hyundai Ioniq 9 (Starting at $58,995)
2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 —
Source: Hyundai
Only the base S model is rear-wheel drive (RWD); all other trims—SE, SEL, Limited, Calligraphy, and Calligraphy Plus—come with all-wheel drive (AWD). All Ioniq 9s are powered by a 110 kWh lithium-ion battery (compared to the Kia EV9's 99.8 kWh pack) that supports both AC and DC fast charging, with 10% to 80% charging in 24 minutes on a 350kW charger.
Powertrain Breakdown:
S (RWD) – 160 kW (215 hp), 335-mile range
S (RWD) – 160 kW (215 hp), 335-mile range SE, SEL (AWD) – 226.1 kW (303 hp), 320-mile range
Limited, Calligraphy, Calligraphy Plus (AWD) – 314.6 kW (422 hp), 311-mile range
The interior is outstanding across all trims. Tech features include a curved digital display with a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and 12.3-inch infotainment screen. While my SEL tester didn't include Hyundai's 'Relaxation Seats' (available in higher trims), front seats were still supremely comfortable. The second row offers excellent comfort, even with a bench seat, while the third row is best for smaller adults or kids due to limited headroom.
Driving the Hyundai Ioniq 9 SEL
Hyundai IONIQ 9 —
Source: Hyundai
The 303-horsepower AWD SEL trim delivers more than enough punch. Higher trims may be quicker, but I never felt the need for more. You even gain about 9 extra miles of range versus top trims, thanks to fewer gadgets and a lighter setup.
Handling is solid for a nearly 6,000-lb vehicle—about the same curb weight as a Chevrolet Suburban 4×4. It reminded me of the Ioniq 5, only larger and higher. The independent five-link rear suspension soaks up rough roads impressively, and the MacPherson front struts help the Ioniq track true.
No, it's not a sports car. When pushed hard, it will lean, plow, and shuffle. However, Hyundai's safety systems, especially lane-keeping and lane-centering, are among the best. Rear visibility is limited due to thick pillars and the vehicle's shape, but the cameras and sensors more than make up for it.
Volkswagen ID Buzz (Starting at $59,995)
VW ID.Buzz —
Source: Volkswagen
The Volkswagen ID Buzz comes with a 91 kWh battery (86 kWh usable), powering either RWD or dual-motor AWD setups.
RWD – 282 hp, 234-mile range
AWD – 335 hp, 231-mile range
DC fast charging is capped at 200 kW, good for a 10% to 80% charge in about 30 minutes. Level 2 charging (AC) takes 7.5–9 hours at 11 kW.
The ID Buzz interior is modern, light-filled, and fun. You feel like you're piloting a boat—in a good way. The 12.9-inch center touchscreen and 5.3-inch digital cluster provide a futuristic look. All seats are comfortable, with third-row space that's surprisingly generous for adults. However, rear passengers get no dedicated cupholders—just bottle holders in the doors. Odd oversight.
Driving the ID Buzz
The ID Buzz also weighs about 6,000 lbs, but it hides that weight surprisingly well. It's not as quick or athletic as the Ioniq 9, but it's nimble and fun in its own right. The driver's seating position is a standout, with exceptional visibility thanks to the tall windows and elevated driving position. You can see over almost everything else on the road.
Its multilink rear suspension is built for loads, which gives it a mixed ride. Full of passengers? Smooth. Nearly empty? You may notice some rear shuddering due to the stiff coils. That stiffness helps prevent tip-over behavior, though—it feels confident even when pushed.
Final thoughts
The Hyundai Ioniq 9 is the clear winner in performance, range, and overall usability. It's a brilliant all-rounder that asks for few compromises. While its slippery, teardrop profile might divide opinions, its tech, comfort, and refinement make it a standout.
The Volkswagen ID Buzz, on the other hand, oozes character—which is rare in a minivan. It's fun to drive, highly maneuverable, and eye-catching. Sure, it could use better range, rear cupholders, and a slightly lower price, but it's a genuinely desirable people mover.
Verdict? If you want top-tier tech, range, and comfort, go with the Ioniq 9. If you want charm, style, and to turn heads while hauling kids, go with the ID Buzz. Either way, you're ditching gas, hauling seven people, and driving something that dares to be different.
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