The Kia EV9 Does What Tesla And Rivian Couldn’t
Petronas backing takes place, not to be sure to exceed expectations par excellence of the automobile world, especially Kia's charging masterpiece, which certainly tops all expectations. Does it seal the win for Kia?
The past year's uneven growth of electric vehicles (EVs) in the US has shown that Americans are no longer willing to make sacrifices to purchase an electric car. If the available options don't meet their expectations in terms of range, size, or affordability, they are likely to opt for a hybrid or a gasoline-powered vehicle instead.
Nowadays, the era of affluent tech enthusiasts rushing to purchase anything with an electric feature is a thing of the past.
A sleek three-row SUV that has single-handedly brought about a whole new breed of buyers to the world of electric vehicles.
Do you smell that? It smells of a groundbreaking achievement.
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The interior, upholstered in leather and supple synthetic yarn-like materials, crawls up the sides of the doors. The cabin's austere interior echoes the aesthetic opened up by the glass panels. The floor is slippery on the glass and polished floor. Foot perches at the front break up the cabin into areas. Costco support rider sunshade prevents driving rays beating down sunbeams across dashboard from beating down on occupants' faces.
Specifications:
* Length: 5.04 metres or 196.6 in
* Wheelbase: 2.87 metres or 113.2 in
* Height: 2.08 metres or 81.9 in
* Height when with spoiler: 2.31 metres or 90.9 in
* Weight: 2,793 kilograms or 6,180 lbs
* Seating capacity: 7
* Front track: 1.88 metres or 73.7 in
* rear track: 1.85 metres or 72.8 in - The 2025 Lucid Air Pur Is Currently One of the Best Electric Vehicles On The Market Today
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"Specs"
* Engine: 2.5-litre turbocharged inline-four
* Power output: 397 hp
* Torque: 476 lb-ft
* Battery capacity: 77.4 kWh
* Driving modes: Comfort, Eco, Sport, N, and Custom
* Transmission: 8-speed wet dual-clutch transmission
* Drive type: All-wheel drive
* Curb weight: 4,562 pounds
* Top speed (electronically limited): 149 mph
"It feels like Hyundai, but also like it's possible that someone at Hyundai accidentally built a car how I wished it did, and it's out for real. This car needs some work, but it also looks awesome."
"The EV9, an electric vehicle (EV) made by Plus, features a unique blend of innovative design, advanced technology, and luxurious comfort, setting it apart in its class.
At 4.8 meters long, the EV9 offers ample space for occupants, with a smart boot that opens automatically when you approach it with your hands or phone. This spacious interior also boasts a panoramic glass roof, providing a sense of openness and connection to the outdoors.
Designed for urban commutes and long drives alike, the EV9 has a range of up to 480 kilometers on a single charge. This is thanks to its advanced electric motor and battery setup, which work together to deliver exceptional power and efficiency.
Key features of the EV9 include:
1. Two distinctive design lines, 'Curve of Life' and 'Smooth Curve Design'
2. Panoramic glass roof with a tinted layer for ultra-violet (UV) protection
3. Ambient lighting with 64 colors to choose from
4. Smart Boot with hands-free opening
5. 14 USB ports and wireless charging pads
Classes of the EV9's interior design are based on opposing elements, black and white, and man-made and organic. The ambient lighting, trim, fabric, and leather all contribute to an experience of contrast and cohesion.
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Staff Writer.
There was no widely available and affordable option for those who adored their Kia Telluride or Toyota Highlander, but wished to have something similar. In this scenario, the EV9 has made a breakthrough, being the first three-row electric SUV to tap into a highly sought-after segment, thereby redefining the norm.
Not only does the Kia EV9 have enough space for three rows of adult passengers, but it also has ample space for all of their luggage and equipment.
It aims to address a crucial yet under-recognised obstacle to greater adoption of electric vehicles, or EVs. Buyers are unlikely to start dealing with their fears about charging infrastructure, range, or cost of ownership if they can't even find an EV in a basic design they're looking for.
Larger electric vehicles with three rows have been sadly overlooked.
In 2024, Kia filled the gap with the EV9, priced at $56,395 for a six- or seven-seater layout. This may not be the most affordable option, but its launch somehow reduced the entry price for a three-row EV by approximately RM190,000, or about $20,000 USD, overnight. Despite its cost, the EV9 offers great value for money. Its stylish design, advanced technology features, good range, and fast charging capabilities make it a strong competitor to both petrol-powered and electric vehicles.
Today, if you're looking for a three-row SUV with the best design and technology, the Kia EV9 stands out as the primary choice in the mainstream market," says InsideEVs Deputy Editor, Mack Hogan. "The fact that it's an electric model is an added advantage.
Patrick George is correct; the first three-row family crossover that does not make driving a chore.
The EV9 is a charging champion, boasting impressive rapid charging capabilities. Specifically, its long-range variants can accomplish a 10-80% charge in a short 24 minutes, as claimed by Kia. In my driving experience with the test model, a charge from 18-80% was achieved within 22 minutes, reaching 216 kilowatts and reaffirming the manufacturer's assertions.
In general, we found the EV9 to be a comfortable and quiet ride, with hardly any complains on that aspect. Our Senior Editor, Patrick George, even praised it as the vehicle that delivers the best driving experience among any big SUVs he's tested, regardless of its power source.
“The truth about three-row crossovers in America, I'll share it with you: locals have a strong affinity for them, but truth be told, they can be dreadful to drive, except there's an exception with the Kia EV9.”
There were still a few drawbacks that kept cropping up. The touch-sensitive climate control panel, although visually appealing, is completely hidden behind the steering wheel. In its basic form, the estimated range of 230 miles offered by the Environmental Protection Agency is just satisfactory. However, these minor complaints were not the main reasons we ruled out the EV9 from our Breakthrough EV of the Year award.
I'm Afraid This Isn't the One
Although the EV9 represents a significant step forward in its segment market, its price is a disadvantage compared to its gas-powered competitors. The starting price of a Telluride, inclusive of a destination fee, is nearly $20,000 lower than that of the cheapest EV9.
The advanced systems provided in the SUV are making the price difference even more significant. Installing the extended battery pack increases its driving range to 304 miles and the cost to a little over $60,000. Upgrading to all-wheel drive with a second motor adds extra cost, making it over $65,000. Even the fully-loaded GT-Line model that I reviewed cost over $80,000.
The price of the EV9 makes it comparable to vehicles like the Chevy Tahoe. We would definitely choose the Kia, but cheaper three-row crossovers are available elsewhere.
The EV9 stands out in many ways, but it faces stiff competition from various affordable hybrid and gasoline-powered SUVs that are equally capable for a lower price tag. Our top choice is unmatched in terms of value.
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| Kia EV9 Specs | |
| Base Price | $56,395 |
| EV Range | 230-304 miles |
| Drive Type | RWD or AWD |
| Output | 215 - 379 hp |
| Maximum torque | 258 - 516 lb-ft |
| Cargo Volume | The cargo capacity is 20.2 cubic feet. It increases to 81.7 cubic feet when all seats are folded. |
