Despite its size, the Kia EV9 offers a thrilling, comfortable drive, effectively competing with high-end EVs.
In this review…
If anything, the Kia EV9 is a statement of intent. Coming into the new year with a brand-new seven-seater EV that finally manages to offer a considerable amount of range, the EV9 marks the Korean automaker’s grand reinvention for 2024, into a brand that can butt heads with more upmarket manufacturers.
With the EV9, Kia is looking to undercut the likes of the Range Rover Sport and Mercedes EQS with the promise of delivering just as good of an experience without paying for the badge. The question is: does this behemoth of a model succeed? We take a look at the SUV from all its angles, from its design and interior to EV performance and driving style, to find out.
Design & Interior
The EV9 is the biggest car Kia has ever made. Stretching over 5 metres long, its looks are as bold as the size of its frame, with geometric shapes that cut across the bodywork like something from a science fiction world. Its half-hexagon wheel arches can fit up to 21-inch wheels depending on the trim you opt for. The overall shape casts the mind back to the boxy designs of the 80s, but details such as the flush door handles give an air of a revitalised Kia, one ready to raise the standards and corkscrew into the future.
Upon first look, the interior is fairly indicative of car design in 2024, with a flat and wide dashboard plastered with a triplet of touchscreens that altogether make for a great infotainment system. However, again, Kia has upped the ante with cup holders, cubby holes and plug sockets all within easy reach yet flexing thoughtfully tucked-away designs, as well as two sunroofs, a 14-speaker sound system and acres of space even for a seven-seater. Relaxing is the easiest thing to do in the EV9, with its ultra-clean upholstered seats with comfortable netted headrests and massage functionality even while you drive. If this car were a hotel room, it would be a penthouse suite.
The best news of all is that Kia has managed this quality of interior with materials made from bioplastics and recycled materials. One can sense that real effort has been made to repurpose existing materials, while not sacrificing a truly luxury experience.
EV Performance
Between the three main trim options, Kia presents a thrilling choice. At the heart of the Kia EV9 lies either a colossal single battery or one of two dual-motor setups. You can opt for either a rear-wheel drive variant for those who enjoy a classic drive, and a more audacious 4WD version. The latter is where the EV9 truly shines, offering a blood-fizzing 380 horsepower, ready to transform any mundane journey into an electrifying adventure.
As well as this, the EV9 is a marvel in terms of range and efficiency. Depending on the model you choose, you can enjoy a substantial 313-to-359-mile range. This is a figure that stands out, even in the competitive world of electric vehicles, making the EV9 not just a statement piece but a practical choice for long journeys. It also has super-fast charging capabilities, giving you 80% battery life from 10% in under half an hour.
Drive
The Kia EV9’s driving experience is an exhilarating blend of power and comfort, which is immediately evident from its acceleration. It leaps from 0-60 in a time that rivals many sporty hot hatches, providing a thrilling burst of speed that belies its substantial frame. This sense of agility is further enhanced by an impressive array of driver assistance technologies. While at times these features may feel overly protective, bordering on excessive, the customisation options mean drivers can tailor the alerts to their preferences.
A standout feature of the EV9 is its passenger comfort. The vehicle is designed with a focus on placating its occupants, making every journey a serene experience. The seats are designed for relaxation, and the overall ambience within the car exudes tranquillity. The steering is light and almost ethereal, offering a sensation akin to gliding on a cloud. This lightness might come at the cost of the precision found in normal cars, but the trade-off is a uniquely gentle and soothing drive.
However, the EV9’s considerable size does present some challenges, particularly in narrow city streets or tight suburban roads. Manoeuvring in such environments can feel like a bit of a squeeze, but this is effectively mitigated by the comprehensive camera system surrounding the vehicle. These cameras provide excellent visibility, compensating for its bulkiness and ensuring that the driver maintains confidence and control in tighter spaces. The combination of these features makes the EV9 not just a statement in design and performance but also a testament to Kia’s commitment to providing a balanced and enjoyable driving experience.
Final Verdict
With the KIA EV9 being the first big new car launch of the year, it sets the tone for automakers that excel at value-for-money challenging the upmarket at their own game. The Kia EV9 is a luxurious electric SUV with impressive range, rapid charging, and a sustainable, spacious interior. Despite its size, it offers a thrilling, comfortable drive, effectively competing with high-end EVs. A top choice for eco-conscious luxury seekers. If the Kia EV9 is evidence of one thing, it’s that 2024 looks to be a year where companies upset the apple cart with excellent results.
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