Kia EV9 Overview (2023)

author: FutureCar Staff    

Upon approaching the EV9 for the first time, one cannot help but be struck by its fresh and instantly appealing new styling. The car features an edgy treatment with a modern plain front panel, technical-looking headlights, cladding along the body sides, and a simple tailgate design. While it may be long and boxy, the EV9 stands out as a unique vehicle that manages to captivate new arrivals without being too shocking.

Similar to its smaller sibling, the Kia EV6, the EV9 is built on the Hyundai Group's EV-specific Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). It shares many components with the EV6, including its all-independent multi-link suspension and various powertrain elements. Buyers of the EV9 can choose between rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive versions.

The entry-level models of the EV9 are equipped with a 200bhp motor that delivers 258lb ft of torque exclusively to the rear axle. This configuration allows for an acceleration of 0-62mph in 9.4 seconds. On the other hand, the 4x4 version is equipped with two motors of equal power (189bhp each) mounted at the front and rear. As a result, the car boasts a total of 378bhp and can achieve a 0-62mph time of 6.0 seconds. The torque output is an impressive 442lb ft, which can be increased to 515lb ft with an optional, over-the-air software update. This upgrade shaves an additional 0.7 seconds off the 0-60mph time.

The EV9's controls are incredibly smooth and responsive, to the point where one could easily forget that it's an electric vehicle. It drives like any other car, with a quiet motor and a range of nearly 300 miles depending on driving style. The car's motion is controlled through a small switchblock on the right side of the steering column, with additional ancillary switches on the steering wheel. Notably, the intensity of the regenerative braking can be adjusted using steering wheel paddles, a feature that other manufacturers should consider implementing.

Our test car is a mid-range version intended for the domestic market, lacking some of the features found in a high-spec UK EV9 and without the second motor. Nevertheless, the braking is powerful and easy to modulate, while the steering feels most natural in Normal driving mode (Sport and Eco modes are also available). Overall, the controls exude the same frictionless finesse typically associated with brands like BMW and Porsche. These details serve as a testament to Kia's unwavering commitment to excellence and continuous improvement.

FutureCar Staff