Kia has made a bold entrance into the full-size premium SUV market with its latest offering, the Kia EV9 all-electric SUV. This model represents a significant step forward for the Korean car brand, as it enters a territory previously dominated by European premium brands. The EV9 is not only Kia’s largest and most luxurious electric vehicle to date, but it also aims to undercut competitors like the Tesla Model X and the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV in terms of price, while still offering impressive power, range, and equipment.
Design and Styling:
The Kia EV9 stands out with its bold and distinctive design, which is a testament to Kia’s Opposites United design philosophy. This full-size SUV has a strong kerbside presence, thanks to its long wheelbase, big wheels, and upwardly displaced roofline. While it shares similar dimensions to the Land Rover Defender 110, the EV9’s unique proportions make it fresh and unusual. The car exudes visual presence without being overly aggressive or visually challenging.
Interior and Space:
One of the key selling points of the EV9 is its spacious and versatile interior. It is one of the few electric seven-seat family cars on the market, offering ample room for passengers and cargo. The top-spec GT-Line S model even offers a six-seat configuration with swivelling “captain’s” chairs in the second row. The rear seats are large enough to comfortably accommodate smaller adults and growing kids. The EV9 also comes with advanced features like three-zone climate control, 360-degree parking cameras, and a 12.3-inch infotainment system.
Performance and Range:
The EV9 offers two powertrain options: a single rear-mounted motor or a twin-motor setup with one motor per axle. The twin-motor version delivers an impressive 378 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. In terms of acceleration, the all-wheel-drive EV9 can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.3 seconds, making it competitive with other big electric SUVs. The EV9 also boasts a 99.8kWh battery pack, providing a claimed range of 313 miles on the WLTP cycle. It also supports fast-charging at up to 210kW, allowing for a 10-80% DC rapid charge in approximately 24 minutes.
Ride and Handling:
Despite its size and weight, the EV9 handles itself well on the road. It offers good steering and predictable handling, providing a comfortable and composed driving experience. The car’s suspension effectively controls body roll, while its steering offers a sense of precision and calmness. However, the ride can become unsettled over sharper inputs, and the EV9 lacks the dynamic sophistication of some of its European rivals.
MPG and Running Costs:
In terms of running costs, the EV9 proves to be a financially credible option compared to other big electric SUVs. The entry-level Air version offers the longest range at 349 miles and is priced at £65,025, making it a competitive option. The top-of-the-line GT-Line S model has an official range of 313 miles and achieved an impressive 259 miles in real-world testing. All versions of the EV9 can be fast-charged at up to 210kW, further enhancing its usability and convenience.
Conclusion:
The Kia EV9 represents a significant milestone for the Korean car brand as it enters the full-size premium SUV market with confidence. With its bold design, spacious interior, impressive power and range, and competitive pricing, the EV9 aims to challenge established European premium brands. While it may lack some of the luxury and refinement expected in this segment, Kia’s focus on value and practicality sets the EV9 apart from its competitors. Overall, the EV9 has the potential to make a significant impact in the market for big electric cars and appeal to those seeking a desirable and practical seven-seat electric SUV.
