The Kia EV9 Revealed: Groundbreaking EV Fusing Progressive, Bold Design with Authentic SUV Character

  • Strong SUV identity fused with elegant EV styling to reshape both the segment and way of life for the electrified era
  • Inspired by Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, the EV9 combines contrasting qualities of nature and modernity in its character
  • Sleek and bold exterior expresses confidence, clarity, and calmness
  • Kia’s E-GMP flat-floor EV architecture amplifies interior space with third row seating, enhancing comfort while exuding a sense of high sophistication
  • EV9 readied to debut globally later this month, accelerating the brand’s transformation towards a sustainable mobility solutions provider

(SEOUL) March 15, 2023 – Kia Corporation has today revealed full images of the exterior and interior design of the Kia EV9, its first three-row electric flagship SUV, which encapsulates bold styling and sophisticated elegance inside and out. The Kia EV9 represents a pivotal step forward in the company’s journey towards becoming a sustainable mobility solutions provider.

The bold and confident visual presence of the EV9 is inspired by Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, which harnesses the creative tension generated by the divergent values of nature and modernity to deliver a harmonious whole. Kia’s designers have fused a unique combination of sleek, sculptural shapes and assured, assertive geometry to deliver a strikingly contemporary yet gracefully serene SUV.

“The Kia EV9 breaks new ground, aiming to redefine standards for design, connectivity, usability and environmental responsibility,” said Karim Habib, Executive Vice President and Head of Kia Global Design Center. “The Kia EV9 offers customers an exceptionally high-quality proposition and a fresh EV perspective in the family SUV sector. This new vehicle typology provides instinctive experiences and excellent comfort for not just the driver, but all occupants, through innovative use of space, technology and design.”

Exterior design: paving new paths for future electric SUV design

Guided by the brand’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, Kia’s designers strive to create vehicles with unprecedented visual appeal. In particular, the ‘Bold for Nature’ pillar of the ideology, which inspires the combination of elements from the natural and material worlds, has played a key role in forming the exterior design of the EV9. The result is a vehicle that effortlessly combines an undoubted aura of rugged capability for all conditions, with the serene calmness of a sophisticated EV that paves new paths for future electric SUV design.

The front of the EV9 is denoted by simple clear-cut lines and body surfaces, which exude confidence, clarity and calmness in equal measure. Accentuated by the ‘Digital Pattern Lighting Grille’ and striking vertical headlamps, the EV9’s signature ‘Digital Tiger Face’ imparts a visionary and futuristic look and feel. The Digital Tiger Face features two clusters of small cube lamps within the bodywork adjacent to each headlamp. The EV9’s innovative ‘Star Map LED daytime running lights (DRL)’ create a new illumination experience and delivers a sophisticated animated lighting pattern that will denote Kia’s Digital Tiger Face for the brand’s future EV models.

Formed from a polygonal design language, the side profile of the EV9 effortlessly combines a strong and indisputable SUV identity with exceptional aerodynamic efficiency. Dynamic triangular fender structures and highly pronounced geometric wheel arches combine with the fuselage body, unifying the polygonal elements into a cohesive structure that presents a determined look. Flush door handles and a tapered back roofline gives a sense of smooth and efficient motion.

At the rear of the vehicle, the simple, clean lines of the tailgate, which are elegantly detailed by the slim rear lights that mirror the design of those at the front, further reflect the EV9’s strong and confident stance.

Interior design: new social space with enhanced comfort and technology

The Kia ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy ‘Technology for Life’ pillar ensures that only technology and innovation that promote positive, intuitive interactions between humans and machines are created – realizing new possibilities for mobility. These values have played a pivotal role in the creation of the interior of the EV9. They have enabled Kia’s designers to prioritize space, comfort and technology for all passengers, reimagining what a family SUV can offer.

Built on Kia’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the EV9’s long wheelbase, low beltline, and completely flat electric vehicle architecture have facilitated the creation of generous space for all occupants to connect and relax with lounge-style comfort in all three rows of seats. Offered in both six and seven-seat formats, Kia captured feedback from families to evaluate seating configurations and features to ensure the EV9 delivers equality of space, comfort and experience for all occupants without placing all of its focus on the driver.

Occupants sitting in the first and second-row seats can simultaneously recline their seats to relax and rest when the EV9 is charging. The seats in the second row can be effortlessly swiveled 180 degrees so that occupants can interact with those sitting in the third row. The third-row seats also offer cup holders and charging points for mobile devices.

Throughout the spacious, light, airy cabin, the EV9 embodies an elegantly simple, premium quality, exceptionally user-friendly design. The open, floating panoramic dashboard extends from the steering wheel to the vehicle’s center. Two 12.3-inch touch screens integrated with one 5-inch segment display improve the digital experience, offering effortless control of the vehicle’s functions and ensuring physical buttons are kept to a minimum.

The center console is equipped with ample storage options, including a spacious compartment located at its base. The center console doors are further designed to add to the overall refinement of the interior space.

The EV9’s extended display high-definition audio visual, navigation and telematics (AVNT) screen creates a rich and immersive experience. It enhances occupants’ ability to engage and interact with the digital world seamlessly. Beneath the AVNT screen, an array of hidden type touch buttons provides a start/stop function along with AVNT and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) control.

Imminent world premiere: The Kia EV9, Here to reshape the way we move

The Kia EV9 will make its digital global premiere in late March. During the event, Kia will disclose all product information and roll out the global campaign with the slogan, ‘Here to reshape the way we move.’

Kia Canada celebrates strong season of automotive awards coupled with record-breaking sales

  • Brand wins several industry-leading awards for vehicles including the Kia EV6, Telluride, Sportage and Rio
  • Marks three consecutive months of record-breaking sales in Canada, closing January 2023 with 5,263 units sold

(Toronto, ON) February 24, 2023 – Starting the year off strong, Kia Canada has been awarded several notable automotive wins this season, reinforcing its prowess in design, technology and innovation.

The brand garnered industry recognition across various categories for several vehicles in its lineup, including a third time consecutive category win as AJAC’s Best Large Utility Vehicle in Canada.

The 2023 award wins include:

  1. AJAC Best Large Utility Vehicle in Canada – Kia Telluride
  2. AutoTrader Best Mid-Size SUV – Kia Telluride
  3. AutoGuide 2023 Utility Vehicle of the Year – Kia Sportage
  4. Number one mass-market brand in the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study*
  5. NACTOY North American Utility Vehicle of the Year – Kia EV6
  6. J.D. Power 2023 Canada ALG Residual Value Awards* Mass Market Electric Vehicles segment – Kia EV6
  7. J.D. Power 2023 Canada ALG Residual Value Awards Small Cars segment – Kia Rio

This series of wins comes on the heels of record-breaking January sales for Kia Canada with 5,263 units sold. Forte led the sales with 1,163 units, followed by Seltos at 984 units and Sportage at 727 units.

Canadian sales were further bolstered by global momentum, as Kia Corporation recorded total sales of 237,437 units in January, a 9.0 percent increase year on year.

“Kia Canada’s upward momentum continues into 2023 with record breaking January sales and several industry awards recognizing a number of models in our lineup,” says Elias El-Achhab, VP and COO of Kia Canada. “These awards and sales are just the beginning, and we look forward to delivering new and inspiring products to Canadians across the country in 2023.”

Kia Canada unveiled the 2024 Seltos at the Toronto International Autoshow last week with enhanced design elements and improved technology offerings to further solidify its position in the subcompact segment. A top best seller in Canada since its launch in 2020, the updated Seltos arrives in dealerships across the country this spring, solidifying Kia’s position in the subcompact segment.

All-electric Kia EV6 wins 2023 North American utility vehicle of the year™

DETROIT, Mich., January 11, 2023 – Today, the all-electric Kia EV6 was named North American Utility Vehicle of the Year™ by the North American Car of the Year (NACTOY) jury. This is the second occasion in four years that the NACTOY jury has named a Kia vehicle as its top choice in the category, and the first win for a Kia electric vehicle (EV).

“Since going on sale in early 2022, the EV6 model range has illustrated the sophistication and refinement inherent to Kia EV engineering, and North American customers have taken notice,” said Sean Yoon, President and CEO, Kia America. “In a year with three electric finalists, this win proves that EV6 is not only a top utility vehicle, but also an exemplary EV.”

The EV6 was selected by 50 automotive experts from print, online, radio, and broadcast media. As part of the evaluation process, NACTOY jurors tested vehicles ranging from sports cars to pickup trucks, and assessed criteria including automotive innovation, design, safety features, performance, technology, driver satisfaction, user experience, and value.

The EV6 delivers jaw-dropping performance, ultra-fast DC charging compatibility, available onboard power, and a flat-floor interior that utilizes innovative materials throughout the cabin. The EV6 offers a wide array of advanced driver assistance systems1, a remarkable level of connectivity features, as well as Kia’s latest-generation energy-efficient heat pump, which scavenges waste heat from the car’s coolant system. The EV6 is a critical part of the Kia “Plan S” strategy to launch at least two battery-electric vehicles (BEV) per year and build a full line-up of 14 BEVs by 2027.

Kia Canada Announces Best November Sales in Company History

December 6, 2022 – Closing out another successful year, Kia Canada announces record November sales, marking a 57.9% growth compared to the same month last year. Seltos led the highest sales at 1,775 units, followed by Forte at 1,351 units and the all-new Sportage at 982 units. These results contribute to the 6,469 units sold in total by the brand in November.

Kia also continues to set records in CPO sales, having sold 856 units in November 2022 – the highest count achieved in the month of November in the brand’s history. This nearly doubles the previous record of 478 set in November 2020.

“We’re thrilled to see such incredible sales amid a tough year for the industry both at home and abroad,” says Elias El-Achhab, VP and COO of Kia Canada. “While up against the unprecedented global challenges, our dealer network has remained dedicated and agile, always striving to provide Canadians with quality products they can drive with confidence.”

Over the past two years, Kia Canada has introduced and refreshed over 50% of its innovative product offering, contributing to the brand’s upward trajectory. The most recent was the announcement of the refreshed 2023 Telluride with enhanced design, safety and convenience features. Now available in X-Line and X-Pro trims, the 2023 Telluride has landed in Kia dealerships across the country, adding another best-in-class option for Canadian families.

Kia’s most award-winning SUV, the Telluride, continues to command the road with design enhancements and two new trims for 2023

October 24, 2022 – Since the Telluride launched in 2019, it has become Kia’s most revered vehicle, an aspirational SUV praised for its unmatched design, comfort, space and utility. Today, Kia Canada announces key enhancements to its overall design, safety and convenience features to further bolster the Telluride’s position in the large SUV category, along with two brand new trims to the lineup.  

Arriving in dealers this month, Telluride has been redesigned to elevate its already striking appearance. The exterior of the vehicle receives brighter accents and the use of satin chrome to enhance the vehicle’s identity, as well as modifications to the front and rear, modernizing the aesthetic.

“Since its launch, the Kia Telluride has come in to set the benchmark, as the no-compromise choice for families in the large SUV segment, said Elias El-Achhab, COO, Kia Canada. “And now with the additions of X-Line and X-Pro trims, Canadians have even more reason to get excited about this vehicle, which continues to be the best-in-class option for families who expect more in advanced safety features, premium tech advancements and comfort.”

Exterior updates to the 2023 Telluride include:

  • New LED highlight and fog lamp design that will continue to be unmistakable on the road
  • More prominence has been applied to the redesigned grille, front bumper and wheels that maintain Telluride’s commanding presence
  • Around the rear, the signature taillight design remains, and the LED layout has been revised, the bumper is also more integrated in its styling
  • All emblems are now in Hyper Silver 

The cabin of the 2023 Telluride is updated to combine the latest of Kia’s cutting-edge technology into a slim but lengthened design that spread across the driver’s view, creating an open and inviting space. The pattern and garnishes featured on the C/PAD and dashboard were carefully selected to provide a premium feel and eye-catching design. Key feature enhancements include:

  • A larger 4.2-inch colour TFT Instrument Panel Cluster (EX)
  • Upgraded 12.3” TFT LCD (SX and higher)
  • 12.3” multimedia interface
  • Larger wireless phone charger area
  • Available 10-inch head up display
  • A sleek redesign steering wheel
  • Kia First – Available full display digital rearview mirror
  • C-type USB chargers
  • Away close function on power tailgate 

Brand-new for the 2023 model year is the introduction of the X-Line and X-Pro trims. These two models offer a more rugged look in their design and increased functionality. 

Available features include: 

  • Higher ground clearance of 10mm
  • Tow mode
  • Embossed front seat backrest
  • Dark accents for a more rugged and athletic appearance including high gloss black bridge roof rails, front grille, and dark metallic accents throughout
  • 5,500 lb towing capacity (X-Pro Only)
  • 110V inverter in the cargo area (X-Pro only)
  • An exclusive wheel design (18” X-Pro or 20” X-Line)
  • All-terrain tires (18”) – X-Pro
  • Two new interior colours to choose from: Terracotta Brown (X-Line and X-Pro) and Sage Green (X-Pro only)

The 2023 Telluride will also be the first vehicle in the lineup to receive Digital Key 2 Touch, taking convenience to a whole new level (available on SX trims and above). This feature lets owners use their compatible Apple smartphone as the key to both lock/unlock the vehicle and to start it. Digital key access can be shared with up to two additional users.

The 2023 Telluride receives several enhancements to its full suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)ii. New features to the Telluride include:

  • Standard High Beam Assist (HBA): Automatically adjusts the headlights between high beam and low beam dependent on the brightness of the headlights of oncoming vehicles
  • Standard Second Row Side Airbags
  • Standard Forward Collision Avoidance (FCA) with Junction Turning capability: Helps avoid collisions with an oncoming vehicle while turning left at an intersection
  • Standard Intelligent Speed Limit Assist: Provides a warning if the driver is operating the vehicle over the speed limit using the information from the front view camera. In some cases, the system also reads from the navigation system the speed limit information (if available) to automatically adjust the speed
  • Available Advanced Highway Driving Assist:  When driving on a highway the system maintains the distance from the vehicle in front and the lane position on the highway and also assists in lane changes. 

All-new Kia Niro confirmed for Canada

(Toronto, ON) May 30, 2022 –Today, Kia Canada announces the highly anticipated and completely redesigned Niro will be coming to Canada. The next-generation Niro has been designed from the ground up to meet and exceed the expectations of eco-minded consumers. With striking styling cues and a commitment to sustainability and connectivity throughout, the 2023 Niro will launch in Canada with three highly efficient, electrified powertrains: hybrid electric (HEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and all-electric (BEV).

Launched for the first time in Canada in 2017, Niro was Kia’s first fully green vehicle offered only as a hybrid, plug-in-hybrid and pure electric small crossover. Perfectly timed for the growth in this segment, Niro has enjoyed tremendous success in Canada for those looking for a more environmentally conscious vehicle.

“This will be the 4th vehicle that Kia launches under the brand’s Plan S strategy that promises to bring 7 all-new electrified models to Canada by 2025,” said Elias El-Achhab, Chief Operating Officer, Kia Canada. “This next generation Niro not only satisfies the varying consumer needs with three different powertrain offerings, but also integrates sustainability through materials and technology that help propel the company’s vision toward more environmentally-responsible mobility.”

Inside and out, the 2023 Niro features bold design inspired by the “Opposites United” philosophy ‘Joy for Reason.’ The choice of colors, materials and finishes aim to strike the perfect balance between an environmentally responsible approach to mobility and a future-oriented passenger car vision. The exterior of the 2023 Niro embodies a sophisticated and adventurous sense of purpose that takes strong influence from the HabaNiro concept unveiled in 2019.

Specification and pricing details for Canada will be announced closer to launch.