The Kia EV9 is Kia’s boldest and most advanced electric vehicle to date, designed to redefine what a full-size electric SUV should offer. Positioned above the EV6 in Kia’s lineup, the EV9 is a spacious, tech-rich, and performance-oriented SUV that caters to both urban users and adventure-loving families. It features futuristic styling, three-row seating, a high-capacity battery, cutting-edge technology, and impressive towing capability—all while being eco-friendly. Whether you’re looking for road trip versatility, everyday practicality, or luxury comfort, the EV9 is built to deliver.
Launched globally in late 2023 and made available in many markets, including the US in 2024, the Kia EV9 stands out in the increasingly crowded electric SUV space due to its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and family-first design. It directly rivals premium EVs like the Rivian R1S, Tesla Model X, and even some traditional large SUVs.
Kia EV9 Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | Full-size all-electric SUV |
| Platform | E-GMP (Electric-Global Modular Platform) |
| Seating Capacity | 6 or 7 passengers |
| Body Style | 5-door SUV |
| Drivetrain | RWD (Single Motor) or AWD (Dual Motor) |
| Launch Year | 2024 (India/US/global) |
| Price Range (US) | $56,400 to $73,000 (approx.) |
Battery, Performance, and Range
| Variant | Battery Size | Power Output (hp) | Torque (Nm) | Range (EPA/Est.) | 0–100 km/h | Charging (DC Fast) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Light RWD (Standard) | ~76.1 kWh | ~215 hp | ~350 Nm | ~230–250 miles | ~8.2 sec | Up to 210 kW (10–80% in 25 min) |
| Light Long Range RWD | ~100 kWh | ~201 hp | ~350 Nm | ~280–304 miles | ~8.8 sec | Same as above |
| Wind/AWD & GT-Line AWD | ~100 kWh | ~379 hp | ~600–700 Nm | ~270–290 miles | ~5.0–5.3 sec | Same as above |
The EV9 supports ultra-fast charging thanks to its 800V architecture, allowing it to add over 100 miles of range in just 15 minutes under ideal conditions. It also supports Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality to power external devices.
Interior Features & Comfort
| Rotate 180° to face third row or the side door | Details |
|---|---|
| Seating Configuration | 6-seater with 2nd-row captain seats or 7-seater bench |
| Second-Row Swivel Seats | Rotate 180° to face the third row or the side door |
| Infotainment | 12.3” driver display + 12.3” touchscreen + HVAC panel |
| Premium Audio | Meridian 14-speaker sound system (top trims) |
| Upholstery Options | Vegan leather or premium sustainable materials |
| Ambient Lighting | Customizable interior ambient lights |
| Climate Control | Tri-zone automatic climate control |
| Cargo Space | Ample with rear seats folded; frunk storage also present |
The cabin design feels upscale with minimalistic lines, soft-touch materials, and a focus on user-friendly tech integration. The 3-row layout ensures flexibility for families and large groups.
Technology & Safety Features
| Tech & Safety Features | Availability |
|---|---|
| Kia ADAS Suite (ADAS 2.0) | Standard on all variants |
| Blind-Spot View Monitor | Available |
| Lane Keeping Assist and Lane Following | Standard |
| Forward Collision Avoidance (Cyclist/Junction) | Standard |
| Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA 2) | Available (GT-Line) |
| Surround View Camera | Available |
| Digital Key & Phone Unlocking | Available |
| OTA Software Updates | Standard |
| Head-Up Display | Available |
| Airbags | Multiple including curtain airbags |
Kia EV9’s safety credentials have earned it multiple accolades and excellent crash-test performance ratings globally. The ADAS system adds another layer of confidence for daily driving and long trips.
Towing, Utility, and Off-Road Capability
| Capability | Details |
|---|---|
| Towing Capacity | Up to 5,000 lbs (AWD models) |
| Drive Modes | Eco, Normal, Sport, Snow |
| Ground Clearance | Around 7.8–8.0 inches |
| Self-Leveling Suspension | Available on top trims |
| Roof Rails | Standard on most variants |
| Trailering Assist | Available (select trims) |
The EV9 is not just a city-friendly electric car but is also equipped for long-distance adventures with support for towing trailers, boats, or cargo carriers.
Awards and Recognition
| Award | Year |
|---|---|
| North American Utility Vehicle of the Year | 2024 |
| Car and Driver 10Best SUVs | 2024 |
| World Car of the Year | 2024 |
| Red Dot Design “Best of the Best” | 2023 |
| Top Gear’s Family Car of the Year | 2023 |
These global awards reflect the EV9’s balanced design, performance, practicality, and innovation, positioning it among the best electric SUVs on the market.
Kia EV9 Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Spacious three-row layout with flexible seating | Heavier than most EVs |
| Powerful dual-motor AWD variants | Pricey top trims |
| High-speed charging and V2L capability | Large size may not suit tight urban areas |
| Award-winning design and comfort | Rear visibility is slightly limited |
| Loaded with tech and ADAS features | Limited availability in some regions |
Final Thoughts
The Kia EV9 is not just another electric SUV—it’s a revolutionary family vehicle that combines futuristic styling, spacious interiors, long driving range, and premium features in one package. Whether you prioritize performance, practicality, or planet-friendly technology, the EV9 delivers across the board. With its commanding road presence and luxury-level features, it offers tremendous value compared to European rivals, especially for buyers looking for a large EV with real-world utility.