Hyundai is set to make a splash in the electric SUV market this year with the launch of its three-row electric SUV. This highly anticipated vehicle follows the design of the Seven concept that was revealed back in 2021. Recently leaked spy photos give us an early look at the SUV, and it appears to stay true to the concept’s overall profile.
One noticeable difference is the taller roof, which suggests that Hyundai has focused on maximizing interior space. The SUV also appears to be longer overall, further enhancing its passenger and cargo capacity. While the rear-hinged doors showcased in the concept have been replaced with conventional ones, the sleek and clean arch of the windshield, a signature feature of the Seven concept, remains intact.
Moving to the front of the vehicle, we can expect to see a similar fascia to the concept, with a main light bar spanning across the front and LED pillars flanking it. Upon closer inspection, the spy photos reveal amber LEDs positioned above and below the main light bar, providing a unique lighting design. The wheel arches, separate from the sheet metal, add a touch of flair to the SUV’s exterior, reminiscent of the Kona’s contrasting fenders. Completing the look are 21-inch wheels tucked beneath the pronounced wheel arches.
While the rear of the vehicle remains heavily camouflaged, one detail stands out—the taillights. Hyundai has successfully transferred the full arch of LEDs from the concept to the production model, creating an eye-catching lighting display that illuminates under braking.
Taking a peek inside, we get our first glimpse at the interior of the three-row electric SUV. The design is reminiscent of other Ioniq models, featuring a pair of large screens in a single monolithic display. These screens sit atop a low shelf-like dashboard. The steering wheel, borrowed from the Santa Fe, adds a boxy shape and features illuminated “pixels,” a common design element across Ioniq models. The interior is adorned with silver painted plastic, giving it a modern and sophisticated feel.
One particular highlight of the interior is the instrument panel, which provides valuable information for potential buyers. It prominently displays a range estimate and charge status. At 95% charge, the SUV is reported to have an estimated range of 308 miles, with a high estimate of 480 miles and a low estimate of 208 miles. While the extremes seem rather extreme, the 308-mile range appears to be within a believable range. The Kia EV9, which shares the same E-GMP platform as the Hyundai SUV, boasts an EPA range of 304 miles, making the 308-mile estimate plausible.
Hyundai is expected to unveil the three-row electric SUV at the upcoming L.A. Auto Show. Given the completeness of the prototype seen in the leaked photos and the company’s confirmation, anticipation is building for this vehicle. Powertrain options are likely to mirror those of the EV9, including a rear-wheel-drive model with long- and short-range battery packs, as well as an all-wheel-drive version with the long-range pack. Horsepower is expected to range from over 200 for the base models to 379 horsepower for the dual-motor version of the EV9.
With its stylish design, ample interior space, and impressive range estimates, Hyundai’s three-row electric SUV is poised to make a strong entry into the competitive electric SUV market.