My buddy and I both have W. German P226's and he also has the P229 in .40 and a P228. My cousin has the P229 in 9mm w/ Hogue grip. Let me start by saying that I do think the P226 is arguably the best fullsize DA/SA combat 9mm out there.
Ok, having said that...
As mentioned, I've only shot the P229 9mm w/ the Hogue grip. I think because of the stainless slide, it shoots w/ the recoil characteristics of the P226, yet has the compactness and ergonomic shape of the P228. My only real criticism of the gun is the smaller slide serrations. I find my hand slips a fair amount of time when grabbing the serrations. I may be wrong, but I think the P229 in 9mm is heavier than the P228. If you carry, this could be a factor. The P228 definitely feels a little snappier than the P229 w/ Hogue that I've shot. Not that big a deal on a 9mm, but it's there.
The P226 is a stellar handgun though. It is the easiest gun in my inventory to shoot accurately. Every newbie I've ever brought out for their 1st shoot agrees. It is a very accurate service pistol. The P226, along w/ some of the HK pistols, are the benchmark of 9mm service pistol accuracy. My P226 has been reliable for 3.5K rounds, and hasn't had one malfunction....zero. IMHO, it's one of those pistols....like a 1911, or a G19, the P226 just has that perfect blend of outstanding qualities for an exceptional pistol in it's category.
If I CCW'd, the P229 would be better at filling this role. For myself, I'm glad I have my P226. I may get a P228/P229 at some point for my wife. She always hogs the P226 when at the range.