The 2024 Kia EV9 emerges as a game-changer in the electric SUV market. Its combination of spaciousness, luxurious features, advanced safety technologies, and impressive performance positions it as a formidable contender. Kia’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the EV9’s eco-friendly design and innovative features, making it a compelling choice for eco-conscious consumers seeking a versatile and high-performing electric SUV.
As the automotive industry accelerates towards an electrified future, the EV9 aims to redefine the electric vehicle market, competing with the likes of the Volvo XC90, Tesla Model X, and Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV.
A Closer Look at the Exterior
Size Matters: Dimensions and Wheelbase
Let’s kick off our exploration with the exterior design. The Kia EV9 boasts an impressive size, sitting on a substantial 3.1-meter wheelbase – a crucial factor for accommodating its 7-seater configuration. The matte Ocean Blue color, exclusive to the top-spec model, adds a touch of sophistication. The front fascia showcases the active vein technology for cooling, sleek LED headlights, and a distinctive Kia logo.
Stylish Wheels and Aerodynamic Mirrors
On the sides, the 21-inch alloy wheels, adorned with arrow covers, contribute to the EV9’s bold presence. The video mirrors, a unique feature, enhance aerodynamics and reduce drag. The piano black accents on the wheel arches add a modern touch, while the overall profile exudes confidence and style.
Rear Elegance and Practical Features
Moving to the rear, the LED tail lights seamlessly wrap around, emphasizing the EV9’s sleek design. The digital rearview mirror, coupled with a 360-degree camera, ensures optimal visibility. The powered tailgate reveals a spacious cargo area, demonstrating Kia’s thoughtful approach to practicality.
Luxurious Interior
Minimalist Elegance and Intuitive Controls
Inside the EV9, Kia has adopted a minimalist approach to design. Surfaces, initially appearing as hard plastics, surprise with their soft and textured feel. The capacitive touch buttons add a futuristic flair, complemented by physical controls for climate management. The spacious cabin, courtesy of the generous wheelbase, offers a comfortable and airy ambiance.
Cutting-Edge Infotainment
The infotainment system takes center stage with its high-resolution display and swift responsiveness. Connected services allow remote access, while shortcut menus offer convenient features like quiet mode and passenger talk. The 14-speaker Meridian sound system, combined with smartphone mirroring capabilities, ensures an immersive driving experience.
Safety at Its Core
Safety takes precedence in the Kia EV9, featuring a comprehensive suite of technologies. Autonomous emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assistance enhance overall safety. The digital mirrors, with their innovative design, contribute to improved visibility, addressing a common concern with larger vehicles.
Connectivity and Storage Solutions
Innovative Connectivity
Connectivity is a highlight of the EV9’s interior. USB-C ports and a 12-volt outlet, coupled with a clever switchable smartphone mirroring port, offer versatile charging options. The wireless phone charger adds convenience, while the thoughtful placement of controls ensures easy access.
Abundant Storage and Comfort Features
The Kia EV9 excels in practicality, providing ample storage options. The wireless phone charger, multiple bottle holders, and a retractable cubby door showcase Kia’s attention to detail. Comfort features include dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and cooled seats, and a configurable second-row for added versatility.
Driving Dynamics and Performance
Powerful Drivetrain and Off-Road Capability
Under the hood, the Kia EV9 boasts a dual-motor setup, delivering just under 300 KW of power and 700 NM of torque. The Australian-tuned ride and handling strike a balance between comfort and performance. The EV9’s off-road capabilities, complete with selectable terrain modes, cater to various driving scenarios.
Autonomous Driving Capabilities
The Kia EV9 introduces advanced autonomous driving features, including adaptive cruise control and lane-changing assistance. The innovative driver distraction monitor, although a notable feature, might require adjustments for personalized preferences. The EV9’s performance on the road, combined with its safety technologies, positions it as a compelling option in the electric SUV segment.
Performance Metrics: A Closer Look
Acceleration and Agility
In performance testing, the EV9 demonstrated its agility with a 0 to 100 km/h time of 5.2 seconds. The responsive acceleration, coupled with a 3.64-second 80 to 120 km/h sprint, showcases the EV9’s dynamic capabilities.
Kia EV9 Charging and Battery
Charging the Kia EV9 is a seamless experience, with options for both AC and DC charging. The innovative vehicle-to-load feature enables the EV9 to power external appliances, adding a layer of versatility for outdoor activities. The AWD model, on the other hand, accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds and has a stated range of 512 kilometers.
Kia EV9 price
The price of the 2024 Kia EV9 starts at $54,900. The Wind grade, which starts at $63,900, is the most economical dual-motor AWD variant. The GT-Line trim with the most torque (516 lb-ft) starts at $73,900.
Source: Kia
