The Kia EV9 is making waves in the world of electric vehicles (EVs). With customers in the US gearing up to place their orders starting on October 16, 2023, the EV9 is set to become one of the first battery-electric three-row SUVs available in America.
Design and Dimensions
The EV9 boasts a rugged yet sophisticated appearance, fitting for a flagship SUV. Its boxy, triangular design language emphasizes its short overhangs and long 122.0-inch wheelbase, providing ample interior space. At 197.4 inches in length (slightly longer in the GT-Line trim), the EV9 is longer than Kia’s Telluride SUV, with comparable height and width. Despite its boxy profile, the EV9 maintains an impressive drag coefficient of 0.2818.
Pricing and Trim Levels of Kia EV9
One key aspect that has raised eyebrows is the price range of the EV9, which falls between $55,000 and $74,000. To provide some context, the gasoline-powered Kia Telluride, the nearest equivalent, is priced between $36,000 and $46,000. Here are the specific trim levels and their starting prices:
- EV9 Light RWD: $54,900
- EV9 Light Long Range RWD: $59,200
- EV9 Wind e-AWD: $63,900
- EV9 Land e-AWD: $69,900
- EV9 GT-Line e-AWD: $73,900
It’s important to note that these prices do not include a destination charge of $1,495. However, Kia has an incentive for early reservations. Those who place a reservation by November 27, 2023, will receive a collection of goodies, including a portable EV charger and a charging credit with Electrify America.
Performance and Range
The EV9 is built on the company’s 800-volt E-GMP platform, which supports fast DC charging at up to 350 kW. It also features an Onboard Power Generator (V2L), enabling it to power certain appliances and support vehicle-to-home (V2H) and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) capabilities. The EV9 offers a range of trim levels, each with its own performance specifications:
- EV9 Light: This entry-level model comes with a 76 kWh battery and a motor that produces 215 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. It offers a range of 233 miles, although official EPA range data is pending.
- EV9 Light Long Range: Equipped with a 99.8 kWh battery, this configuration has a single rear motor rated at 201 hp and is expected to achieve a range of 300 miles. It also offers captain’s chairs for second-row passengers.
- EV9 Wind: Also featuring the larger 99.8 kWh battery, the Wind boasts dual motors with a total of 379 hp and 443 ft-lb of torque. It comes with electronic torque vectoring, a heat pump, and a heated steering wheel. The estimated EPA range is 280 miles.
- EV9 Land: This trim level adds comfort, convenience, style, and technology features. It includes a lighted grille with digital patterns, 20-inch wheels, and interior enhancements such as a heated tilt and telescoping steering wheel and a 14-speaker Meridian audio system. Battery, power, and range specs are similar to the EV9 Wind, and an optional Towing Package can increase towing capability to 5000 lb.
- EV9 GT-Line: The range-topping GT-Line comes with unique front and rear fascias, 21-inch wheels, and gloss black finishes. Inside, it offers a premium experience with relaxation-mode seating. Additionally, it features Remote Smart Parking Assist for easy parking maneuvers and boasts dual motors with 516 ft-lb of torque.
The 2024 Kia EV9 is an exciting addition to the world of electric SUVs. It offers a range of trim levels to cater to various preferences and needs. However, its price range is noticeably higher than its gasoline-powered counterpart, the Telluride. As EV technology continues to advance, the EV9 presents a glimpse into the future of electric vehicles, combining style, performance, and environmental consciousness.
If you’re in the market for a spacious and stylish electric SUV, the Kia EV9 is worth considering. It’s an important step forward in the transition to electric mobility, and with the added incentives for early reservations, it’s an appealing choice for those looking to make the switch to an electric future.
FAQs on Kia EV9
1. What is the Kia EV9?
The Kia EV9 is an all-electric, three-row SUV designed to offer a sustainable and eco-friendly driving experience. It’s one of Kia’s newest electric vehicles, built on the company’s advanced E-GMP platform.
2. When will the Kia EV9 be available for purchase in the US?
Customers in the US can place orders for the Kia EV9 starting on October 16, 2023. Deliveries are expected to begin in late 2023.
3. Where will the Kia EV9 be manufactured?
The Kia EV9 will be produced in North America at Kia’s state-of-the-art factory in West Point, Georgia, starting in 2024.
4. What are the price ranges for the Kia EV9?
The price range for the Kia EV9 varies depending on the trim level:
- EV9 Light RWD: $54,900
- EV9 Light Long Range RWD: $59,200
- EV9 Wind e-AWD: $63,900
- EV9 Land e-AWD: $69,900
- EV9 GT-Line e-AWD: $73,900
5. Is the Kia EV9 eligible for federal EV tax credits or rebates?
While it’s expected that the Kia EV9 may be eligible for federal EV tax credits or rebates due to its assembly in the United States, there is no official confirmation of this at the moment.
6. What are the notable features of the Kia EV9?
The Kia EV9 comes with an available Onboard Power Generator (V2L) that can power appliances and support vehicle-to-home (V2H) and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) capabilities. It also features Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist and Parking Distance Warning Forward and Reverse.
7. What’s the range of the Kia EV9 models?
The range varies based on the trim level. The EV9 Light offers a range of 233 miles, while the EV9 Light Long Range has an expected range of 300 miles. The EV9 Wind has an estimated EPA range of 280 miles.
8. What charging capabilities does the Kia EV9 have?
All Kia EV9 vehicles are built on the company’s 800-volt E-GMP platform, which supports DC fast charging at up to 350 kW of power. This enables quick charging and minimizes downtime.
9. Are there any early reservation incentives for the Kia EV9?
Yes, customers who place a reservation for the Kia EV9 by November 27, 2023, will receive a collection of goodies, including a Webasto Go Dual Voltage Portable EV Charger, a complimentary three-year Kia Maintenance Plan, and one year of available Digital Features & Services.
10. What distinguishes the GT-Line trim of the Kia EV9?
The GT-Line is the top-tier trim and features unique front and rear fascias, 21-inch wheels, and premium interior elements. It also includes Remote Smart Parking Assist for convenient parking.