2024 Kia EV9 Review

2024 Kia EV9 – Overview

Going all-electric isn’t just for sedans, pickups, or compact SUVs anymore. The three-row 2024 Kia EV9 SUV—roughly the same size as the gas-powered Telluride—shares its platform with the upcoming Hyundai Ioniq 7. Buyers can choose between rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, with the AWD version boasting a 379-hp dual-motor setup.

Both the all-wheel-drive and rear-wheel-drive Long Range models feature a 99.8-kWh battery, delivering an EPA-estimated 304 miles of range with the single-motor setup. The standard rear-wheel-drive EV9 comes with a 76.1-kWh battery and an EPA-estimated 230 miles of range.

Its large size doesn’t compromise utility: the EV9 offers a 5,000-pound towing capacity, matching the gas-powered Telluride. Families will also appreciate the usable third-row seating, making it one of the few three-row EVs on the market starting under $60,000.

When Is the 2024 Kia EV9 Coming Out?

Kia plans to release the 2024 EV9 in late 2024, with pre-orders opening earlier in the year. Production is expected to begin in Q4 2024, targeting both North America and select global markets. Early deliveries should start shortly after production ramps up.

What’s New for 2024 Kia EV9?

The Kia EV9 marks a brand-new nameplate for Kia, representing the next step in the company’s ambitious plan to launch 11 new electric vehicles by 2026.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

The 2024 Kia EV9 starts at $56,395 and climbs to $75,395, depending on trim level and options.

For most buyers, the midrange Wind trim strikes the best balance of performance and value. It unlocks the all-wheel-drive 379-hp powertrain and comes loaded with sought-after features, including second-row captain’s chairs, a heat pump for the climate-control system, heated front seats and steering wheel, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies.

EV Motor, Power, and Performance

The EV9 lineup begins with the rear-wheel-drive Light trim, powered by a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 215 horsepower. The Light Long Range version also uses rear-wheel drive, but despite its larger battery, peak power drops slightly to 201 horsepower.

All-wheel-drive models feature a dual-motor setup delivering 379 horsepower, with an available Boost mode that increases peak torque for quicker acceleration. In testing, the AWD EV9 rockets to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, outpacing the gas-powered Telluride by about two seconds—a thrilling performance for those who enjoy the instant torque EVs are known for.

Looking ahead, a performance-oriented GT model is expected for 2025, potentially offering up to 576 horsepower.

On the road, the EV9 is as enjoyable to drive as it is to admire. Highway cruising is smooth and comfortable, and the defeatable one-pedal driving system rolls the SUV to a complete stop with impressive ease.

Range, Charging, and Battery Life

The entry-level Light model comes with a 76.1-kWh battery, providing an EPA-estimated 230 miles of range. The Light Long Range and e-AWD models feature a larger 99.8-kWh battery pack. The Light Long Range is rated for up to 304 miles per charge, while the Wind e-AWD and Land e-AWD trims offer 280 miles. The top-spec GT-Line trim sees range drop slightly to 270 miles per charge. In real-world testing at 75 mph, the EV9 GT-Line achieved 240 miles, just shy of its EPA estimate.

All EV9s use Kia’s 800-volt electrical architecture, enabling rapid DC fast-charging. The 11-kW onboard charger is typical for the segment, but the 230-kW maximum DC fast-charging rate can add 100 miles of range in just 13 minutes, with an average charging speed of 139 kW between 10% and 90% state of charge—among the fastest we’ve tested in any EV.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe

The EPA estimates the EV9 delivers between 80 and 89 MPGe, depending on drivetrain and battery size. The Light trim is the most efficient, achieving 89 MPGe with the 99.8-kWh battery and rear-wheel drive. On the other end of the spectrum, the performance-focused GT-Line with all-wheel drive earns the lowest rating at 80 MPGe.

For the most up-to-date fuel economy details, you can visit the EPA’s official website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The EV9 is available in six- or seven-passenger configurations, depending on whether the second row features captain’s chairs or a bench seat. On higher trims, the third row is power-folding for added convenience.

In our prototype drive, the front seats felt firmly cushioned, though much of the synthetic upholstery came across as slightly inexpensive—hopefully U.S.-spec models will offer an upgraded feel. The second-row captain’s chairs mirror the comfort of the front seats and include heating, ventilation, and massaging functions.

The third row is surprisingly roomy for adults, though second-row passengers may need to make minor adjustments to ensure rear legroom. Cargo space is generous, offering 20 cubic feet behind the third row, comparable to the Telluride, and expanding to 82 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded flat.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The EV9 features a dual 12.3-inch display setup—one for the gauge cluster and another for infotainment—with a dedicated HVAC readout positioned between them. Physical buttons are minimal, with only essential HVAC controls and a volume knob remaining. Most functions are handled through touch-sensitive controls embedded in the dash, allowing quick access to different menus.

Kia is introducing an all-new infotainment system for the EV9, though many of its details remain under wraps until the three-row SUV officially launches.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The EV9 comes equipped with a range of standard driver-assistance technologies, including blind-spot monitoring and automated emergency braking. Higher trims, like the GT-Line, also offer a hands-free driving mode bundled with an advanced version of adaptive cruise control.

Key safety features include:

• Automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection (standard)

• Lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist (standard)

• Adaptive cruise control with hands-free driving mode (available on GT-Line)

For more information on the EV9’s crash-test results, visit the (NHTSA) and (IIHS) websites.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Kia offers one of the strongest warranty programs in the industry, though it does not include complimentary scheduled maintenance, unlike Hyundai.

• Limited warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles

• Powertrain warranty: 10 years or 100,000 miles

• Scheduled maintenance: Not included

2024 Kia EV9 Specifications

Final Verdict

The 2024 Kia EV9 is a serious contender in the electric SUV market. Its combination of range, comfort, advanced technology, and safety features make it ideal for families and tech enthusiasts. While it carries a premium price tag, the value and versatility it offers make it worth considering for anyone looking to switch to a larger electric SUV.

2024 Kia EV9 Videos