Pros: Three adult-friendly rows; road-trip-friendly range and fast charging; clever storage
Cons: Price reflects its premium leanings; most versions are six passenger only; infotainment a bit convoluted
The 2024 Kia EV9 enters the electric vehicle market as a mainstream, three-row SUV. With very few three-row EVs currently available, the EV9 stands out for offering genuine space in the third row without being excessively priced. Starting at $60,000, the EV9 boasts sophisticated driving dynamics and a premium cabin that can comfortably accommodate six or seven passengers, depending on the configuration. It competes favorably against range-topping versions of mainstream-brand SUVs and luxury brand three-rows.
The EV9 is equipped with practical and user-friendly technology, delivering solid performance and range, especially in the higher trims. It serves as the electric counterpart to the popular Kia Telluride, offering similar features including top-notch safety and driver assistance technology. With its spacious, quiet, and comfortable interior, the EV9 is enjoyable to drive and offers capabilities for various activities like winter camping. It also features vehicle-to-load technology for powering appliances at campsites or even your home during power outages with the right equipment installed in your garage.
As of now, there is limited competition in its segment, and Kia has not compromised on quality or convenience to take advantage of this. Even in the presence of more reasonably priced three-row EVs in the future, the EV9 is expected to remain a compelling choice.
Interior & Technology | Passenger & Cargo Space | Performance & Fuel Economy
What it’s like to drive | Pricing & Trim Levels | Crash Ratings & Safety Features
What’s new for 2024?
The 2024 Kia EV9 debuts as an all-new model.
What are the EV9 interior and in-car technology like?
The EV9 interior offers spacious, comfortable, and tech-friendly features. The three rows of seating are practical and comfortable, with various convenient comfort features available. The interior includes clever storage options, such as disappearing cupholders revealing a multi-purpose bin and an open area under the floating center console. Second-row passengers benefit from a pull-out shelf/cubby in the rear of the center console (with captain’s chairs). Standard features include heated and ventilated front seats, synthetic leather upholstery, and an overall premium feel. The digital displays on the dash consist of a 12.3-inch digital driver display, 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a 5-inch climate control display. The touchscreen operates on a next-generation interface, though slightly more complex than similar Kia models. The EV9 also offers useful technology such as wireless phone charging, USB-C charging ports, and vehicle-to-load capability.
How spacious is the EV9?
The EV9 is a three-row SUV with genuinely usable third-row seating. Its ample space is attributed to its overall length and wheelbase, surpassing the Kia Telluride in both aspects. Depending on the trim, the EV9 can accommodate either six or seven passengers. The cargo capacity is impressive, offering 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row and expanding to 43.5 and 81.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded, respectively. Additionally, there is a front trunk (frunk) for storing charging accessories and other essentials.
What are the EV9 fuel economy and performance specs?
The Kia EV9 is available in various trims with different powertrains and battery sizes. The range-topping trims feature a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system delivering a total of 379 horsepower. Charging is swift with the EV9’s 800-volt battery architecture, capable of utilizing 350-kW DC fast chargers. The top trims can go from 10% to 80% battery capacity in a short period. The EV9 also offers rapid home charging with its 10.9 kW AC charger, allowing for convenient overnight charging.
What is the driving experience like in the EV9?
The EV9 delivers a quiet and composed driving experience, resembling that of a luxury SUV. With its smooth ride quality and impressive acceleration in the higher trims, the EV9 offers an enjoyable driving experience. The various driving modes and advanced safety features enhance the overall driving dynamics of the EV9. Additionally, the EV9 demonstrates off-road capabilities with its all-wheel-drive system and good ground clearance.
What other Kia EV9 reviews can I read?
2024 Kia EV9 First Drive Review: Lightning strikes again
Kia’s three-row EV is yet another achievement.
580 miles, 0 problems. How I drove an EV to Chicago stress-free
Joel’s completely uneventful road trip in a Kia EV9.
10 features in the Kia EV9 that make you go ‘wow’
These bring some spice to this three-row EV.
What is the 2024 Kia EV9 price?
The EV9 is priced starting at $56,395 for the base Light trim, with prices varying based on trim levels and features. The top trims offer additional luxury and performance features at a higher price point.
What are the EV9 safety ratings and driver assistance features?
The Kia EV9 comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies as standard, ensuring a safe driving experience. These features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and various other safety systems. The EV9 has not yet undergone official crash testing as of this writing.
FAQs
1. Is the Kia EV9 suitable for long road trips?
Yes, the Kia EV9 offers road-trip-friendly range and fast charging capabilities, making it suitable for long journeys.
2. Does the EV9 have third-row seating?
Yes, the Kia EV9 features three rows of seating, providing ample space for passengers.
Conclusion
The 2024 Kia EV9 impresses with its mainstream appeal, spacious interior, advanced technology, and capable performance. With a competitive price point and premium features, the EV9 stands out in the electric SUV market and is a compelling choice for those seeking a three-row EV with practicality and comfort.
