The automotive industry is undergoing its biggest transformation in decades as electric vehicles (EVs) take center stage. Automakers are racing to deliver EVs that combine performance, technology, sustainability, and luxury. Among them, Kia has emerged as a serious contender, with its Kia EV9, a futuristic all-electric SUV that promises to shake up the premium electric SUV segment.
As Kia’s flagship EV based on the dedicated E-GMP (Electric Global Modular Platform), the EV9 is a three-row electric SUV designed for families who want both space and style. It has already won awards for design and innovation, and it represents Kia’s ambition to compete with established EV giants like Tesla, Mercedes, and BMW.
In this detailed review, we’ll explore everything about the Kia EV9, including its design, performance, battery range, features, technology, safety, pricing, and how it compares to its rivals.
Design and Exterior
Bold and Futuristic Styling
The Kia EV9 takes SUV design to the next level with a boxy, futuristic look that makes it instantly recognizable. It embraces the brand’s “Opposites United” design philosophy, blending rugged SUV proportions with sleek EV details.
Key highlights:
- Digital Tiger Face grille with pixelated LED lighting
- Flush door handles for aerodynamics
- Massive 21-inch alloy wheels on higher trims
- Sharp body lines and squared-off stance for a commanding road presence
Size and Dimensions
- Length: ~5,010 mm
- Width: ~1,980 mm
- Height: ~1,755 mm
- Wheelbase: 3,100 mm
This makes the EV9 as large as a full-size luxury SUV, offering unmatched road presence.
Interior and Comfort
Spacious Three-Row Cabin
The Kia EV9 is one of the few three-row electric SUVs on the market, designed with families in mind.
Features include:
- Seating for 6 or 7 passengers
- Second-row captain’s chairs that swivel 180° in some trims
- Premium materials with vegan leather upholstery
- Panoramic sunroof for an airy feel
Tech-Focused Dashboard
The cabin is futuristic yet practical:
- Dual 12.3-inch curved displays (instrument cluster + infotainment)
- 5-inch climate display for easy control
- Minimalist button layout
- Ambient lighting system
Kia has focused on space, comfort, and technology, making it ideal for long journeys.
Performance and Powertrain
Multiple Configurations
The Kia EV9 is available in RWD and AWD options, with varying battery capacities.
- Standard RWD
- Motor: 215 hp
- 0–100 km/h: ~8.2 sec
- Long-Range RWD
- Motor: 201 hp
- Range: Up to 540 km (WLTP)
- AWD Dual-Motor
- Motor Output: 380 hp, 600 Nm torque
- 0–100 km/h: ~5.3 sec
- Optional Boost Mode increases torque to 700 Nm
This makes the AWD version a true performance SUV.
Battery, Charging, and Range
Battery Specs
- Standard battery: ~76.1 kWh
- Long-range battery: ~99.8 kWh
Range
- RWD Long Range: Up to 540 km WLTP
- AWD: ~450 km WLTP
Ultra-Fast Charging
Thanks to the 800V architecture:
- 10–80% charge in 24 minutes
- 239 km range added in just 15 minutes
This puts the EV9 on par with Tesla and Hyundai Ioniq 7 in charging speed.
Features and Technology
The Kia EV9 is packed with high-end features:
- Augmented reality head-up display (HUD)
- Over-the-air (OTA) software updates
- Digital Key 2.0 – use smartphone/watch as a key
- 19-speaker Meridian premium audio system
- Smart parking assist (remote-controlled parking)
- Multiple drive modes (Eco, Normal, Sport, Snow)
This makes the EV9 one of the most technologically advanced EVs in its segment.
Safety Features
Kia has loaded the EV9 with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS):
- Highway Driving Pilot (Level 3 autonomy in some markets)
- Lane-keep assist & lane-change assist
- Forward collision warning & automatic emergency braking
- Blind-spot monitoring
- 360° surround-view camera
- 10 airbags
The EV9 has also earned 5-star safety ratings in crash tests, making it one of the safest EVs for families.
Driving Experience
- The EV9 provides a planted, stable ride thanks to its long wheelbase.
- Steering is light in the city but weighs up nicely at highway speeds.
- Suspension is tuned for comfort, though the AWD variant feels sportier.
- Noise insulation is excellent—almost whisper-quiet inside the cabin.
Overall, it balances luxury comfort with SUV toughness.
Sustainability
Kia has emphasized sustainability in the EV9:
- Recycled materials used in cabin design (plastics, fishing nets, PET bottles)
- Vegan leather seats instead of animal leather
- Lower carbon footprint production process
This positions the EV9 as a future-ready, eco-conscious SUV.
Pricing and Variants
The Kia EV9 is priced competitively for a luxury EV SUV:
- Global pricing starts at $55,000 – $75,000 (depending on variant)
- In India (expected 2025 launch): ₹80 lakh – ₹1 crore
Trims include:
- Standard RWD
- Long Range RWD
- AWD GT-Line (performance-oriented)
Competition
The Kia EV9 competes with several premium EV SUVs:
- Tesla Model X – futuristic tech, but much pricier
- Mercedes EQE SUV – luxury focus, expensive
- BMW iX – premium design, shorter range
- Volvo EX90 – Scandinavian design + safety
- Hyundai Ioniq 7 – sibling EV with similar platform
Where Kia stands out is value for money: offering flagship-level features at a lower price point.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Bold and futuristic design
- Spacious 3-row SUV (family-friendly)
- Long driving range (up to 540 km)
- Ultra-fast charging (800V system)
- Packed with tech and ADAS features
- Competitive pricing vs rivals
Cons
- Large size may feel bulky in tight city spaces
- Premium pricing in India
- AWD variant has lower range
- Limited charging infrastructure in India (currently)
Who Should Buy the Kia EV9?
The Kia EV9 is perfect for:
- Families who want a luxurious 3-row EV SUV
- Buyers looking for premium features without German luxury pricing
- Eco-conscious consumers who value sustainability
- Long-distance travelers who need range and fast charging
Conclusion
The Kia EV9 is more than just a car—it’s a statement about the future of mobility. With its bold design, spacious three-row cabin, cutting-edge technology, impressive range, and sustainable approach, it sets a new benchmark in the premium EV SUV segment.
For Indian buyers awaiting its launch, the EV9 represents a luxury EV alternative that balances affordability with premium features. Whether you’re looking for family practicality, eco-friendliness, or futuristic technology, the Kia EV9 delivers it all.
Kia has successfully proven that it can stand shoulder to shoulder with Tesla, Mercedes, and BMW in the EV space—at a more accessible price point.