Discover the Kia EV9, Kia’s flagship electric SUV. Learn about its range, price, features, performance, global availability, and how it compares to Tesla, Rivian, and Mercedes.
Introduction-Kia EV9 Review 2025
The global electric vehicle (EV) market is witnessing a historic transformation. Consumers are demanding sustainable transportation, governments are incentivizing EV adoption, and automakers are racing to innovate. In this revolution, Kia has emerged as a bold contender with its expanding EV lineup. After the success of the EV6, Kia introduced the Kia EV9, a three-row electric SUV that embodies futuristic design, cutting-edge technology, and sustainable engineering.
Positioned as Kia’s global flagship, the EV9 is more than just an SUV—it’s a statement of where mobility is headed. Targeted toward families, adventurers, and tech-savvy buyers worldwide, the EV9 competes head-on with premium EVs like the Tesla Model X, Rivian R1S, and Mercedes EQS SUV, but at a more competitive price point.
What is the Kia EV9
The Kia EV9 is a full-size electric SUV built on Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP platform (Electric-Global Modular Platform). It combines rugged SUV proportions with modern aerodynamics, offering seating for up to seven passengers.
It was officially unveiled in 2023 and launched globally in phases through 2024 and 2025. Kia positions the EV9 as a flagship EV designed to meet the demands of North America, Europe, Asia, and emerging EV markets.
Key highlights include:
Three rows of seating with flexible configurations
Up to 336 miles (541 km) of range on a single charge
Ultra-fast charging (10–80% in under 25 minutes)
Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) including Highway Driving Pilot (Level 3 autonomy in select regions)
Sustainable interior materials like bio-based leather alternatives and recycled plastics
Global Launch & Market Positioning
The EV9 debuted at Kia’s EV Day 2023 and quickly attracted global attention. Unlike smaller EVs designed mainly for urban mobility, the EV9 directly addresses the demand for family-sized, long-range SUVs in key markets such as:
United States & Canada – SUV-centric markets with growing EV infrastructure.
Europe – Consumers seeking premium, sustainable SUVs.
Middle East & Asia – Demand for larger SUVs in regions transitioning to EVs.
By offering luxury-like features at a more affordable price than competitors, Kia positioned the EV9 as a “value luxury EV SUV” for global audiences.
Exterior Design & Aerodynamics
The EV9’s design blends rugged SUV presence with futuristic minimalism.
Digital Tiger Face: A modern take on Kia’s signature grille with LED lighting patterns.
Boxy silhouette: Emphasizes strength while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency.
Flush door handles & slim LED lights: Enhance aerodynamics and modern aesthetics.
Large wheels (up to 21 inches): Give it a commanding road presence.
Despite its size, the EV9 achieves an impressive drag coefficient for its class, thanks to active air flaps and optimized airflow.
Interior & Technology
Step inside, and the EV9 feels like a tech-driven living room on wheels.
Seating: Up to 7 passengers with captain’s chair options in the second row.
Dual 12.3-inch displays + 5-inch climate control screen.
Head-up display (HUD) with augmented reality navigation (in select trims).
Infotainment: Kia’s latest Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC).
Over-the-Air (OTA) updates: For software, maps, and new features.
Premium sound system: Meridian audio for immersive sound.
Comfort features: Heated/ventilated seats, ambient lighting, panoramic sunroof.
The EV9’s cabin is built with eco-friendly materials like corn-based bioplastics, recycled PET bottles, and vegan leather alternatives, reflecting Kia’s sustainability goals.
Performance & Powertrain
The EV9 is not just about space and luxury—it also delivers robust performance.
Standard RWD: Single motor delivering ~215 hp.
Dual-motor AWD: Produces up to 379 hp and 516 lb-ft torque.
0–60 mph in ~5 seconds (AWD GT-Line trim).
Towing capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg), making it practical for families and adventurers.
Drive modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, and customizable settings.
The EV9 balances everyday comfort with SUV ruggedness, appealing to a global audience.
Battery & Charging
Built on Kia’s 800V architecture, the EV9 supports ultra-fast charging.
Battery capacity: 76.1 kWh (standard) or 99.8 kWh (long range).
Range: Up to 336 miles (541 km, WLTP).
Charging: 10–80% in 24 minutes at 350 kW DC fast charger.
Vehicle-to-Load (V2L): Can power appliances, laptops, or camping gear.
This makes the EV9 suitable for long family trips and global markets with growing fast-charging networks.
Variants & Trim Levels
The EV9 is offered in multiple trims depending on the region:
1. Light (RWD) – Entry-level, affordable option.
2. Wind (AWD) – Balanced range and features.
3. Land (AWD) – Luxury features, higher performance.
4. GT-Line – Sporty design, performance upgrades, top trim.
Sustainability & Materials
Kia highlights sustainability as a key pillar of the EV9:
Bio-based materials: Corn, sugarcane, and natural oils.
Recycled plastics: From ocean waste and PET bottles.Vegan leather: Replacing traditional animal hides.This aligns with global demand for environmentally responsible products.
Read More:- Hyundai Loniq 6 Review: Stylish, Futuristic & Fully Electric Car in India
Comparisons with Competitors
How does the EV9 stack up globally
| Feature | Range | Seating | Charging | Starting Price |
| Kia EV9 | Up to 336 mi | 7 | 350 kW ultra-fast | ~$55,000 |
| Tesla Model X | Up to 348 mi | 7 | 250 kW | ~$79,990 |
| Rivian R1S | 316 mi | 7 | 220 kW | ~$78,000 |
| Mercedes EQS SUV | 305 mi | 7 | 200 kW | ~$105,000 |
Advantage: The EV9 offers premium features at a lower entry price, making it highly competitive in the global market.
Price & Availability
United States: Starting around $55,000, going up to ~$75,000 for GT-Line.
Europe: Starts around €60,000.
Middle East & Asia: Price varies depending on import duties.
India: Expected premium pricing due to import costs (above ₹80 lakh).
Who Should Buy the Kia EV9
The EV9 is perfect for:
Families needing a spacious, eco-friendly SUV.
Buyers seeking premium features without six-figure pricing.
Early EV adopters in markets with growing charging networks.
Adventurers who need towing, off-road modes, and V2L capabilities.
Future of Kia’s EV Lineup
The EV9 represents Kia’s flagship EV strategy, but the brand plans to expand further with EV2, EV3, EV4, EV5, and EV7. By 2030, Kia aims to sell 1.6 million EVs annually, making it one of the world’s largest EV manufacturers.
Conclusion
The Kia EV9 is more than an electric SUV—it’s a symbol of Kia’s global ambition. Combining range, technology, sustainability, and affordability, it challenges Tesla, Rivian, and Mercedes in the premium EV space.
For families, adventurers, and eco-conscious buyers, the EV9 is a future-ready SUV that proves electric mobility can be luxurious, practical, and globally accessible.
FAQs
1. What is the range of the Kia EV9
Up to 336 miles (WLTP), depending on trim and battery.
2. How fast does the EV9 charge
10–80% in about 24 minutes at a 350 kW fast charger.
3. Does the Kia EV9 have 7 seats
Yes, with flexible configurations including captain’s chairs.
4. How much does the Kia EV9 cost?Starts around $55,000 in the U.S., with higher trims reaching ~$75,000.
5. Is the EV9 available worldwide
It is rolling out globally through 2024–2025 in North America, Europe, Middle East, and Asia.
6. Can the Kia EV9 tow
Yes, up to 5,000 lbs.
7. Does the EV9 support V2L
Yes, it can power external devices and appliances.
8. What is the top trim of the EV9
The GT-Line AWD, offering sporty design and max performance.
9. Is the EV9 eco-friendly
Yes, it uses bio-based and recycled materials throughout.
10. How does the EV9 compare to Tesla Model X
It offers similar range and features at a significan lower price.
