Kia EV9: Cost, launch and specifications

author: FutureCar Staff    

The Kia EV9 is a significant step for Kia, as it represents their entry into the premium electric SUV market. Priced from £66,000 to £79,000, the EV9 is a massive seven-seat SUV with a range of over 300 miles and a luxurious interior. It aims to provide exceptional comfort while still delivering a dynamic driving experience. This is undoubtedly the most advanced and luxurious car Kia has ever produced.

The EV9 comes in three trim levels: Air, GT Line, and GT Line S. All models come with seven seats as standard and are packed with features. The Air trim includes a triple panoramic display, wireless phone charging, heated and ventilated seats, and a powered tailgate. The EV9 is equipped with a 99.8kWh battery, providing a range of 308 to 336 miles depending on the power option. Customers can choose between a single motor rear-wheel-drive setup with 201 horsepower or a twin motor four-wheel-drive setup with 378 horsepower. Although orders are open now, deliveries are expected to begin in January 2024. Prices start at £64,995 for the EV9 Air and go up to £78,745 for the GT Line S with four-wheel drive.

The design of the EV9 sets it apart from Kia's previous electric vehicle, the EV6. It has a boxier and more premium look, reminiscent of luxury brands like Rolls-Royce. The GT Line and GT Line S models feature sportier looks and additional luxuries such as massaging seats, larger wheels, and a high-quality sound system.

The interior of the EV9 is equipped with a triple digital display, including a dedicated panel for air conditioning controls. Kia has used sustainable and recycled materials in the cabin, resulting in a plush and high-quality feel. The standard seating configuration is 2/3/2, but the GT Line S models offer a six-seater option with swiveling captain's chairs in the middle row. Safety features such as self-steering lane keeping assist, self-parking, and surround view monitors are included as standard.

The EV9's large size necessitates a big battery, and it is one of the largest in any production car at 99.8kWh. With a single motor driving the rear wheels, the EV9 has an official range of 336 miles. Adding a second motor for four-wheel drive reduces the range to 308 miles but increases the power to 378 horsepower. The battery can be charged at speeds up to 350kW, allowing for a 10 to 80 percent charge in just 25 minutes using rapid charging stations.

The EV9 is priced competitively compared to its rivals in the premium electric SUV market. Starting at £64,995 for the EV9 Air and going up to £75,995 for the GT Line S, it offers more space and equipment than similarly priced competitors such as the BMW iX, Audi Q8 e-tron, and Mercedes EQC. In terms of size and equipment, its closest rivals are the Volvo EX90 and the Mercedes-Benz EQS, which start around £100,000.

In addition to the EV9, Kia has other exciting cars coming soon. Before the end of 2023, they will release an updated version of the Picanto city car and a brand-new Sorento SUV. The Sorento will share design cues with the EV9 and further elevate Kia's position in the market. There are also rumors of another electric SUV, the EV5, which is expected to be smaller and more affordable, similar to the Nissan Qashqai.

FutureCar Staff