What is it?
The EV9 turned the three-row electric family SUV from a concept into a buying decision. Four trims, 800V architecture, and a price walk that starts well below most rivals.
The lineup runs from Air RWD at $105,621 drive-away, through to GT AWD at $138,915 drive-away. Warranty cover sits at 7 years, unlimited km.
Interior and Technology
The first family-sized EV that does not ask the family to compromise. 800V architecture, 10 to 80 percent DC in 24 minutes, and 2,500 kg of braked tow on AWD.
Boot with all three rows up is 333 L, smaller than the equivalent diesel large SUV. The Air's 443 km WLTP range also requires road-trip planning.
Quick Buyer Context
Should you buy the EV9?
Reasons to buy
- The first family-sized EV that does not ask the family to compromise. 800V architecture, 10 to 80 percent DC in 24 minutes, and 2,500 kg of braked tow on AWD.
- Warranty: 7 years, unlimited km. Battery: 7 years, 150,000 km.
- 5-star ANCAP (2023), full driver-assist suite.
- Braked towing rated at 2,500 kg.
Reasons to wait
- Boot with all three rows up is 333 L, smaller than the equivalent diesel large SUV. The Air's 443 km WLTP range also requires road-trip planning.
- You only need five seats (Polestar 3 is cheaper and longer-legged), you want 600 km of WLTP range from a single big battery (Ioniq 9), or your budget tops out below $100k.
- Digital side mirrors on GT-Line and GT take real getting used to. Spend time with them on a test drive before locking in the top trims.
- Top trim climbs to $138,915 drive-away.
Who it suits
Families
Big boot, safety kit
Tow rigs
2,500 kg braked
Premium
Cabin quality up top
EV first-timers
Charge at home, skip the servo
CarTell Verdict
CarTell.tv has driven the Kia EV9. Watch the full review for the on-road verdict.
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