2026 Kia EV9 Review

2026 Kia EV9 – Overview

Entering its third year of production, the 2026 Kia EV9 remains true to the family-friendly, three-row formula that quickly won over buyers. Its modern styling, comfortable and functional interior, and a claimed range of up to 304 miles make it a strong contender in the mid-size battery-electric SUV segment. Buyers can choose between rear- or all-wheel drive, and the EV9 is rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds. It also supports DC fast charging at speeds up to 230 kW.

All 2026 EV9s come equipped with the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, with an included adapter for the older CCS-style port to maintain compatibility with existing chargers. This model year also introduces the new EV9 GT, a dual-motor all-wheel-drive variant delivering a projected 501 horsepower and, for the first time on any EV9, featuring an adaptive suspension.

When Is the 2026 Kia EV9 Coming Out?

The 2026 Kia EV9 is expected to hit dealerships in late 2025, with production ramping up to meet strong demand. Early reservations are already open at select Kia dealerships, and deliveries will prioritize top-trim models.

What’s New for 2026 Kia EV9?

For 2026, the core EV9 models remain largely unchanged, aside from the adoption of the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port and the addition of the blacked-out Nightfall Edition trim. The real excitement comes from the all-new high-performance EV9 GT—not to be confused with the existing GT-Line. This dual-motor variant brings beefier brakes, an adaptive suspension, and unique styling cues, delivering a fast, sporty, three-row electric SUV experience that stands out in the growing EV segment.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

The 2026 Kia EV9 is expected to start at around $56,495, with fully loaded trims reaching up to $80,000 depending on options.

For most buyers, the midrange Wind trim strikes the best balance of value and capability. It unlocks the more powerful all-wheel-drive powertrain with 379 horsepower and includes desirable features like second-row captain’s chairs, a heat pump for the climate-control system, heated front seats and steering wheel, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies. For those seeking a performance edge, the new EV9 GT delivers exhilarating speed alongside its three-row utility.

EV Motor, Power, and Performance

The 2026 Kia EV9 lineup begins with the rear-wheel-drive Light trim, which features a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 215 horsepower. The Light Long Range version also uses rear-wheel drive, but its larger battery slightly reduces peak output to 201 horsepower.

All-wheel-drive models come with a dual-motor setup generating a combined 379 horsepower. An available Boost mode enhances torque and accelerates performance, with the Nightfall Edition offering an even stronger boost for extra punch.

The new EV9 GT takes performance to another level, producing a projected 501 horsepower—122 more than the EV9 GT-Line—thanks to its dual-motor configuration. The GT also includes an electronic limited-slip differential to improve traction and cornering precision. On the road, the EV9 offers a smooth, comfortable ride, and the GT’s new adaptive suspension aims to retain that comfort while providing sharper handling when pushed harder.

0–60-MPH Times

Kia is targeting a 4.3-second sprint to 60 mph for the 2026 Kia EV9 GT, though that figure may be conservative. For context, our testing of a 2024 all-wheel-drive EV9 produced a 4.5-second 0–60 mph run—half a second quicker than the manufacturer’s estimate. With its more powerful dual-motor setup, the EV9 GT could potentially dip into the high 3-second range.

Range, Charging, and Battery Life

The entry-level Light model comes with a 76.1-kWh battery, offering an EPA-estimated 230 miles of range. The Light Long Range and all e-AWD versions use a larger 99.8-kWh pack. While Kia hasn’t confirmed the EV9 GT’s battery size, it’s likely to use this larger pack unless a dedicated performance battery is developed.

EPA-estimated ranges vary by trim: the Light Long Range reaches 304 miles, the Wind e-AWD and Land e-AWD hit 280 miles, and the top-spec GT-Line drops slightly to 270 miles per charge. In our 75-mph highway test, the EV9 GT-Line managed 240 miles, just shy of its rated 270 miles.

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

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe

The EPA estimates the 2026 Kia EV9 achieves 80–89 MPGe, depending on drivetrain and battery size. The Light trim is the most efficient, delivering 89 MPGe with the 99.8-kWh battery and rear-wheel drive. As expected, the performance-oriented GT-Line with all-wheel drive earns the lowest rating of 80 MPGe. EPA estimates for the new EV9 GT have not yet been released.

For the latest fuel economy details, you can visit the EPA’s official website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The 2026 Kia EV9 offers seating for six or seven, depending on whether the second row features captain’s chairs or a bench. Upper trims come with a power-folding third row, making access and storage easier. Interior quality is excellent, with soft synthetic leather upholstery, distinctive mesh headrests, and a solid underlying construction that adds a refined, luxurious feel.

Second-row captain’s chairs closely mirror the comfort of the front seats, offering heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The third row comfortably accommodates adults, though legroom requires some concessions from second-row passengers.

The new EV9 GT brings a sportier touch with bolstered sport seats, faux-suede inserts, a GT-exclusive steering wheel, and unique dashboard trim. Its exclusive color theme mixes dark gray and black with neon green accents, a nod to the EV6 GT.

Cargo space is generous: 20 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 82 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. In practical terms, that translates to five carry-on bags behind the third row or 17 bags with the third row stowed, nearly matching the Kia Telluride in versatility.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The 2026 Kia EV9 features two 12.3-inch screens—one for the gauge cluster and one for infotainment—with a dedicated HVAC readout positioned between them. The EV9 GT adds exclusive instrument graphics and a unique ambient lighting scheme.

Physical buttons are minimal, with only essential HVAC controls and a volume knob remaining. Most functions are handled via touch-sensitive controls embedded in the dash, allowing quick access to infotainment features. Menus are logically organized, highly responsive, and visually appealing.

One minor drawback: the on-screen climate controls are partially obscured behind the steering wheel, making adjustments slightly distracting while driving. Fortunately, once the climate is set, frequent changes are rarely necessary.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The 2026 Kia EV9 comes equipped with a range of standard driver-assistance technologies, including blind-spot monitoring and automated emergency braking. A hands-free driving mode is also available, bundled with an advanced version of adaptive cruise control, though this feature is limited to the EV9 GT-Line.

For detailed crash-test results, refer to the (NHTSA) and (IIHS) websites.

Key Safety Features:

• Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection

• Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist

• Standard adaptive cruise control with hands-free driving mode

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Kia offers one of the most generous warranty plans in the industry, though it does not include complimentary scheduled maintenance like some competitors.

• Limited warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles

• Powertrain warranty: 10 years or 100,000 miles

• Scheduled maintenance: Not included

2026 Kia EV9 Specifications

Final Verdict

The 2026 Kia EV9 is a standout in the large electric SUV segment. It combines long range, family-friendly space, advanced technology, and impressive performance in a sleek package. It’s especially competitive for buyers seeking a premium EV SUV without stepping into ultra-luxury pricing.

2026 Kia EV9 Videos