Kia EV9 2024: The Revolution

Kia isn't new to the electric vehicle game, and perhaps that's what gives the Korean manufacturer an edge over the competition. The brand has been transitioning from gasoline models to electric, as seen with the Soul and Niro. Subsequently, Kia introduced its first exclusively electric model, the EV6, which saw tremendous success upon its launch. Even today, the demand for this electric vehicle far surpasses its supply. All of this leads to the eager anticipation of Kia's next exclusively electric model, and that anticipation has been met with the EV9.

As the name suggests, the Kia EV9 is larger than the EV6. The new SUV from the Korean manufacturer offers three rows of seats and a fairly spacious interior. It's the first large electric SUV intended for the general public. Its closest competitors come from brands like Tesla, BMW, or Audi, with price tags 2 to 3 times higher than that of the EV9. In summary, Kia hasn't only taken the lead against its direct competitors with the first model in this category, but it has also outshone luxury car manufacturers by offering a model that provides the best value for money in this format.

The EV9 is a new model and hasn't yet proven itself, but Kia has significant experience in this type of vehicle. The Korean manufacturer has demonstrated both its talent and expertise in breaking into new categories over the past few years. I would be very surprised if the Kia EV9 doesn't also achieve tremendous success.

Range and Price

The Kia EV9 2024 lineup essentially consists of three versions, starting with the Light model featuring rear-wheel drive, priced at $59,995 before transportation and preparation fees. This is excellent news because it makes it eligible for all electric vehicle purchase subsidy programs, offering a total discount of $12,000 including taxes, which makes a significant difference in the total bill. Next is the Wind version, also featuring standard rear-wheel drive, adding $3,000 to the bill. Finally, for an additional $2,000, you can opt for the Land version with all-wheel drive.

Category and Competition

As mentioned earlier, the Kia EV9 doesn't have direct competitors among mainstream manufacturers. One needs to look towards more luxurious and prestigious categories to find equivalents. This is a significant advantage for the Korean manufacturer's SUV, which has also set the bar very high for its future rivals.

Competitors: Audi Q8 e-tron, BMW iX, Jaguar I-Pace, Polestar 3, Rivian R1S, Tesla Model X, Vinfast VF9

Design and Technologies

I'm not sure if it's because a Québécois currently holds the position of Executive Vice President and Chief Design Officer at the brand, but I particularly appreciate the design of Kia's models. The EV9 is no exception; quite the opposite. It incorporates some visual elements from the EV6 while integrating the beloved square style reminiscent of the Soul. The brand's designers have truly hit the mark with the EV9, which, in my opinion, stands among the most aesthetically pleasing models currently available in the market.

While I appreciate the minimalist style, a very trendy approach in the automotive industry, I find the interior of the EV9 a bit understated in terms of aesthetics. The dashboard boasts a huge screen displaying both the instrument cluster and the multimedia system, each on a 12.3-inch display. A few physical buttons are present, allowing easy access to controls without navigating through various menus on the touchscreen, which is highly appreciated, especially for climate control.

The 2024 Kia EV9 offers a level of technology significantly above average. In addition to the usual equipment, there's a fingerprint module, a digital key, among other features. The ambient lighting available in the Land version is breathtaking. The latter also benefits from a panoramic screen and a Meridian 14-speaker audio system.

Performance

The 2024 Kia EV9 offers two possible mechanical configurations. It starts with the rear-wheel-drive version that features a single electric motor with a power output ranging from 200 to 215 horsepower depending on the version. In both cases, torque reaches 258 pound-feet. There's also a choice between a 76.1 kWh battery and a larger 99.8 kWh battery. The former provides an approximate range of 370 kilometers on a full charge, while the latter reaches 489 kilometers. Then, there's the all-wheel-drive version with multiple motors for a total power of 379 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. It uses the same 99.8 kWh battery, offering a range of 451 kilometers.

Weak Points

There isn't yet a performance version or a version with increased off-road capabilities available at the moment.

Strong Points

The Kia EV9 unquestionably draws attention. Its interior is spacious and distinctly modern. It offers an abundance of technologies and an impressive value for money.

Signature Element

The Kia EV9 is the first large electric vehicle of its kind for the general public, and I can tell you it has set the bar very high for manufacturers.

Final Word

Kia has been on an upward trajectory for several years, but this isn't by chance or luck. The Korean manufacturer has strategically played its cards, which explains why it's a true reference in several segments today. The EV9 is highly anticipated, and it's not without reason. This Korean manufacturer's SUV has everything to please and is clearly destined for a brilliant career.

Jean-Sébastien Poudrier