Enclave vs Ioniq 9
If you’re shopping for a car in the three-row suv class, the Enclave and the Ioniq 9 are likely both on your shortlist. Think of these two as neighbors: the overlap is large and the gaps are few.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance Enclave wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance7.6
- Off-road & Towing5.3
- Engine & Performance2.3
- Off-road & Towing5.3
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Key Differences
-
The Enclave has 113 hp more power
On total system output, the Enclave posts 328 hp against 215 hp for the Ioniq 9, a gap big enough to feel in everyday use. Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels.
-
The Enclave has 68 lb-ft more torque
This is one of the widest gaps in the whole comparison: 326 lb-ft for the Enclave versus 258 lb-ft for the Ioniq 9. Electrified powertrains deliver torque instantly, so compare torque figures alongside the powertrain type.
Design & Size
Dimensions
| Spec | Enclave | Ioniq 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | N/A (not specified) | 199.2 in |
| Wheelbase | 120.9 in | 123.2 in |
Engine & Performance
Enclave leads
On engine & performance, the gap between these two is wide, and it favors the Enclave. On its side, the Enclave has 113 hp more power. More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board. If this section decides it for you, choose the Enclave.
Total system output
Enclave: 328 hp Ioniq 9: 215 hp The Enclave’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed.
Torque
Enclave: 326 lb-ft Ioniq 9: 258 lb-ft More torque means stronger pulling from low speeds, which you feel when accelerating from a stop or climbing grades.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
The space & practicality specs are close enough that neither gets the point. If space & practicality was going to be your tiebreaker, you’ll need a different one.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
On paper, the off-road & towing comparison ends all square. Treat off-road & towing as common ground and look elsewhere for the deciding factor.
Safety & Tech
For safety & tech, the differences are in the specifics (component names and types), so the table is the place to look.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | Enclave | Ioniq 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas | Battery electric |
| Engine | 2.5L turbo I4 | Single motor (rear) |
| Total system output | 328 hp (winner) | 215 hp |
| Torque | 326 lb-ft (winner) | 258 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | Single-speed reduction gear |
| Drivetrain | FWD (AWD available) | RWD (AWD available) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | Enclave | Ioniq 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | 23 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (city) | 20 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (highway) | 27 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Electric range | N/A (not specified) | 335 mi |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | Enclave | Ioniq 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 7 seats | 7 seats |
| Cargo (behind rear seats) | 23 cu ft | N/A (not specified) |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | Enclave | Ioniq 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Max towing | 5,000 lb | 5,000 lb |
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | Enclave | Ioniq 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Largest touchscreen | N/A (not specified) | 12.3 in |
| Driver-assist suite | Buick Driver Confidence | Hyundai SmartSense |
| Basic warranty | 3 yr / 36,000 mi | 5 yr / 60,000 mi |
Dimensions
| Spec | Enclave | Ioniq 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | N/A (not specified) | 199.2 in |
| Wheelbase | 120.9 in | 123.2 in |
Price
| Spec | Enclave | Ioniq 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $45,100 Priciest in class | N/A (not specified) |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the Enclave if…
- you merge, overtake or climb hills with a full load (328 hp vs 215 hp)
- you often drive loaded up or with a trailer (326 lb-ft vs 258 lb-ft of torque)
- you’re comfortable with how Buick does things
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy the Enclave or the Ioniq 9?
On the specs compared here, the Enclave makes more sense for most buyers; the Ioniq 9 doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
Let’s set the logos aside for a minute. The Enclave and the Ioniq 9 are close competitors, and their spec sheets tell an interesting story. If I had to name one reason, it’s that the Enclave brings 113 hp more power.
In my head, the Enclave is the engine & performance pick and the Ioniq 9 is the the things a spec sheet can’t capture pick.
My pick: the Enclave.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.