The Kia EV9 has received very specific tuning, which aims to offer the best driving experience in the segment. But how does it compare to other electric SUVs on the market? And is it worth considering for your next car purchase? Let’s find out.
What is the Kia EV9?
The Kia EV9 is the brand’s first dedicated electric SUV, based on the E-GMP platform that also underpins the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the Genesis GV60. It was unveiled at the 2021 Los Angeles Auto Show and is expected to go on sale in early 2022.
The Kia EV9 has a distinctive design that combines a boxy shape with futuristic details, such as the LED headlights and taillights, the clamshell hood, and the flush door handles. It also features a spacious and versatile interior, with a flat floor, sliding and reclining rear seats, and a large trunk that can accommodate up to 59.3 cubic feet of cargo with the seats folded.
The Kia EV9 offers two battery options: a 58-kWh pack that provides an estimated range of 240 miles and a 77.4-kWh pack that boosts the range to 300 miles. Both batteries can be recharged from 10 to 80 percent in as little as 18 minutes using a 350-kW fast charger. The Kia EV9 also supports vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology, which allows it to supply power to other devices or vehicles.
The Kia EV9 comes with two powertrain choices: a rear-wheel-drive configuration that delivers 225 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque and an all-wheel-drive configuration that produces 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque. The car can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, according to Kia.
The Kia EV9 is equipped with a host of advanced safety and driver-assist features, such as forward collision-avoidance assist, blind-spot collision-avoidance assist, rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, lane-following assist, highway driving assist, smart cruise control, driver attention warning, and parking collision-avoidance assist. It also features a head-up display, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a wireless smartphone charger, a Harman Kardon premium sound system, and a panoramic sunroof.
How does the Kia EV9 compare to other electric SUVs?
The Kia EV9 competes in a crowded segment of electric SUVs, including the Tesla Model Y, the Ford Mustang Mach-E, the Volkswagen ID.4, and the Hyundai Ioniq 5. Here’s how it stacks up against some of its rivals:
| Model | Base Price | Range | Power | Cargo Space |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kia EV9 | $45,000 (est.) | 240-300 miles | 225-320 hp | 59.3 cu ft |
| Tesla Model Y | $53,990 | 244-326 miles | 384-456 hp | 68 cu ft |
| Ford Mustang Mach-E | $42,895 | 211-305 miles | 266-480 hp | 59.7 cu ft |
| Volkswagen ID.4 | $39,995 | 249-260 miles | 201-295 hp | 64.2 cu ft |
| Hyundai Ioniq 5 | $40,000 (est.) | 225-300 miles | 225-320 hp | N/A |
As you can see, the Kia EV9 offers a competitive range and power output for its price point and a generous cargo space that matches or exceeds most of its competitors. Thanks to its high-voltage battery and advanced thermal management system, it boasts faster charging time than most of its rivals.
Why developing an SUV is challenging – especially when working with relatively new electric powertrains and related technologies
Developing an SUV is challenging – especially when working with relatively new electric powertrains and related technologies – because it requires balancing multiple factors that may conflict with each other.
For example, an SUV needs to offer enough space and comfort for passengers and cargo while maintaining a low weight and aerodynamic shape to optimize efficiency and range. An SUV must provide enough power and performance for various driving conditions and ensure the reliability and durability of the battery and electric motors. An SUV needs to incorporate advanced safety and convenience features and keep the system's cost and complexity within reasonable limits.
To overcome these challenges, Kia has applied its engineering expertise and customer-oriented approach to creating an electric SUV that meets or exceeds the expectations of its target market. The Kia EV9 is designed to offer a practical and user-friendly solution for everyday mobility needs, as well as a fun and engaging driving experience for enthusiasts.
According to Albert Biermann, President & Head of the R&D Division at Hyundai Motor Group: “The E-GMP platform has been engineered to offer improved cornering performance and driving stability at high speed. This is due to optimal weight distribution between front and rear […] The high-speed electric motor raises the driving performance of E-GMP vehicles […] We have secured excellent driving performance through our technology.”
Conclusion
The Kia EV9 is an impressive electric SUV that offers a compelling combination of design, space, range, power, technology, and value. It is one of the most promising entries in the segment and deserves serious consideration for anyone looking for a practical and user-friendly vehicle that can also deliver performance and fun.
If you want to learn more about the Kia EV9 or schedule a test drive when it becomes available in your area, visit your local Kia dealer or check out their website for more information.
