Kia EV9: Price, Specs, Range, Features & Review
Base MSRP :~ $54,900
The Kia EV9 is a fully electric three-row SUV built for families who want EV driving without giving up space, seating flexibility, cargo room, or road-trip practicality. It sits above the Kia EV6 and gives Kia a true electric alternative to large family SUVs like the Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, Toyota Grand Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Volkswagen Atlas.
The EV9 is one of the most important electric SUVs in Kia’s lineup because it combines three-row seating with fast charging, available all-wheel drive, strong safety ratings, up to 305 miles of targeted range, and up to 5,000 lbs of towing capacity when properly equipped.
9.0 / 10 — WheelPedia Rating
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Key Highlights
- Body Type: Fully electric three-row midsize SUV
- Seating Capacity: 6 or 7 passengers, depending on trim and second-row setup
- Standard Battery: 76.1-kWh lithium-ion battery on Light RWD
- Long-Range Battery: 99.8-kWh lithium-ion battery on Light Long Range, Wind, Land, and GT-Line
- Standard Output: 215 hp and 258 lb-ft on Light RWD
- Long-Range RWD Output: 201 hp and 258 lb-ft
- AWD Output: 379 hp and up to 516 lb-ft depending on trim and feature setting
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive or dual-motor all-wheel drive
- Best Targeted Range: 305 miles on Light Long Range RWD
- AWD Targeted Range: 280–283 miles depending on trim
- DC Fast Charging: 10–80% style fast-charge estimate listed at 20–24 minutes depending on battery and trim
- Cargo Capacity: 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row
- Maximum Cargo Capacity: 81.7 cubic feet behind the first row
- Maximum Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped
- Best For: Families, EV buyers, road trips, three-row SUV shoppers, school runs, premium electric SUV buyers, and drivers comparing EV9, Rivian R1S, Hyundai Ioniq 9, Tesla Model X, and gas SUVs
Specifications
| Spec | Details |
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | EV9 |
| Vehicle Type | Fully electric three-row SUV |
| Body Style | 5-door SUV |
| Seats | 6 or 7 |
| Doors | 4 doors plus liftgate |
| Platform Type | Dedicated electric vehicle platform |
| Standard Battery | 76.1 kWh |
| Long-Range Battery | 99.8 kWh |
| Motor Type | Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor |
| Standard Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Available Drivetrain | Dual-motor all-wheel drive |
| Output Range | 201 hp to 379 hp |
| Torque Range | 258 lb-ft to 516 lb-ft |
| Transmission | Single-speed reduction gear |
| On-Board Charger | 10.9 kW |
| Fast Charging | 20–24 minutes listed with 350-kW EVSE conditions |
| Wheelbase | 122.0 in. |
| Length | 197.2–197.4 in. |
| Width | 77.9 in. |
| Ground Clearance | 7.0 in. RWD / 7.8 in. AWD |
| Front Legroom | 41.4 in. |
| Second-Row Legroom | 42.8 in. |
| Third-Row Legroom | 30.8–32.0 in. depending on seating layout |
| Cargo Behind Third Row | 20.2 cu. ft. |
| Cargo Behind Second Row | 43.5 cu. ft. |
| Cargo Behind First Row | 81.7 cu. ft. |
| Main Rivals | Hyundai Ioniq 9, Rivian R1S, Tesla Model X, Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, Volvo EX90, Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade |
Expert Tip
For most buyers, the EV9 Wind AWD is the best version to consider first. It gives you the larger 99.8-kWh battery, dual-motor AWD, strong performance, 283 miles of targeted range, and better all-weather confidence without pushing all the way to Land or GT-Line pricing.
About the Kia EV9
The Kia EV9 is Kia’s first mainstream three-row electric SUV and one of the few electric family SUVs that can realistically replace a gas three-row crossover for many households. It is larger and more family-focused than the EV6, with a boxier shape, higher roof, and more usable third-row space.
The EV9 is important because most EVs are compact crossovers, sedans, or expensive luxury SUVs. The EV9 gives families a more accessible electric three-row option than premium models like the Tesla Model X, Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, or Rivian R1S, while still offering a premium-feeling cabin and modern technology.
Compared with the EV6, the EV9 is much more practical for families. It has three rows, more cargo room, a taller SUV shape, and better passenger flexibility. The EV6 is sportier and more efficient, but the EV9 is the better family EV.
Price & Trims
The 2026 Kia EV9 lineup starts at $54,900 for the Light RWD and reaches $71,900 for the GT-Line AWD before destination, options, taxes, and dealer fees. Kia lists five main trims: Light, Light Long Range, Wind, Land, and GT-Line.
| Trim | MSRP | Battery | Drivetrain | Key Features |
| Light RWD | $54,900 | 76.1 kWh | RWD | Lowest price, 215 hp, 230-mile targeted range |
| Light Long Range RWD | $57,900 | 99.8 kWh | RWD | Best range, 201 hp, 305-mile targeted range |
| Wind AWD | $63,900 | 99.8 kWh | AWD | Best all-around value, 379 hp, 283-mile targeted range |
| Land AWD | $68,900 | 99.8 kWh | AWD | More premium features, self-leveling rear suspension |
| GT-Line AWD | $71,900 | 99.8 kWh | AWD | Top trim, 379 hp, 516 lb-ft, 280-mile targeted range |
The Light RWD is the lowest-price EV9. It works for families that want electric three-row space but do not need maximum range or AWD. Its 230-mile targeted range is enough for local use, but many buyers should consider the bigger battery.
The Light Long Range RWD is the range-focused choice. It has the 99.8-kWh battery and the best targeted range in the lineup at 305 miles. It is the right pick if your priority is range, not acceleration.
The Wind AWD is the best balance. It has AWD, the long-range battery, strong acceleration, and better poor-weather confidence while staying below Land and GT-Line pricing.
The Land AWD is the more premium family trim. It adds features such as self-leveling rear suspension and more upscale equipment, making it better for buyers who want comfort and towing confidence.
The GT-Line AWD is the top version. It gives the EV9 its most distinctive design, strongest torque rating, and highest-end feature mix. It is the most desirable trim, but not the best value.
Battery, Motors, Performance & Range
Light RWD
The EV9 Light RWD uses a 76.1-kWh battery and a single rear motor. Kia lists output at 215 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. It has a targeted range of 230 miles.
| Item | EV9 Light RWD |
| Battery | 76.1 kWh |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Horsepower | 215 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft |
| Targeted Range | 230 miles |
| 0–60 MPH | 7.7 seconds |
| Best Use | Lowest entry price, local family driving |
This is the entry EV9. It gives you the same basic body, seating, and family practicality, but the lower range limits road-trip flexibility.
Light Long Range RWD
The EV9 Light Long Range uses the larger 99.8-kWh battery and a single rear motor. Kia lists output at 201 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, with a targeted range of 305 miles.
| Item | EV9 Light Long Range RWD |
| Battery | 99.8 kWh |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Horsepower | 201 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft |
| Targeted Range | 305 miles |
| 0–60 MPH | 8.8 seconds |
| Best Use | Maximum range, lower energy use, road-trip planning |
This is the best EV9 for range-focused buyers. It is slower than the Light RWD because of the larger battery and lower output, but it gives families the most usable driving range.
Wind AWD
The EV9 Wind AWD uses the 99.8-kWh battery and dual electric motors. Kia lists total output at 379 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, or up to 516 lb-ft when the feature-on-demand torque upgrade is active. It has a targeted range of 283 miles.
| Item | EV9 Wind AWD |
| Battery | 99.8 kWh |
| Drivetrain | Dual-motor AWD |
| Horsepower | 379 hp |
| Torque | 443–516 lb-ft depending on setting |
| Targeted Range | 283 miles |
| 0–60 MPH | 5.7 seconds or 5.0 seconds with feature-on-demand |
| Best Use | Best all-around EV9 choice |
This is the best balance for most buyers. It is quick, spacious, practical, and still has strong range.
Land AWD
The EV9 Land AWD also uses the 99.8-kWh battery and dual motors. Kia lists output at 379 hp and 443 lb-ft, or up to 516 lb-ft depending on setting or Nightfall configuration. It also has a targeted AWD range of 283 miles.
| Item | EV9 Land AWD |
| Battery | 99.8 kWh |
| Drivetrain | Dual-motor AWD |
| Horsepower | 379 hp |
| Torque | 443–516 lb-ft depending on setting |
| Targeted Range | 283 miles |
| 0–60 MPH | 5.7 seconds or 5.0 seconds with higher torque setting |
| Best Use | Premium family use, comfort, AWD confidence |
The Land trim is for buyers who want more comfort, convenience, and higher-end equipment than the Wind.
GT-Line AWD
The EV9 GT-Line AWD uses the 99.8-kWh battery and dual motors. Kia lists output at 379 hp and 516 lb-ft, with a 280-mile targeted range and a 5.0-second 0–60 mph time.
| Item | EV9 GT-Line AWD |
| Battery | 99.8 kWh |
| Drivetrain | Dual-motor AWD |
| Horsepower | 379 hp |
| Torque | 516 lb-ft |
| Targeted Range | 280 miles |
| 0–60 MPH | 5.0 seconds |
| Best Use | Premium performance and design |
The GT-Line is the most exciting regular EV9 trim. It feels quick for a large family SUV and gives the EV9 its strongest visual appeal.
Driving Experience
The Kia EV9 drives differently from most gas three-row SUVs. It is quiet, smooth, and quick off the line because electric motors deliver power immediately. Even the base RWD model feels calm and easy to drive in city traffic.
The Light Long Range RWD is the least sporty version, but it is the most efficient range choice. Its 8.8-second 0–60 mph time is not quick, but it is acceptable for a large family EV focused on range.
The AWD models feel much stronger. Wind, Land, and GT-Line trims deliver 379 hp, and Kia lists 0–60 mph times as quick as 5.0 seconds depending on trim and torque setting. That is very quick for a three-row family SUV.
Ride comfort is a major strength. The EV9’s long 122.0-inch wheelbase helps stability, and the large battery mounted low in the vehicle helps it feel planted on highways. It feels heavier than a gas SUV in tight corners, but that weight also gives it a calm, secure road feel.
AWD trims add e-AWD with torque vectoring and terrain modes for snow, mud, and sand. That does not make the EV9 an off-road SUV, but it helps in poor weather and on rough family-trip routes.
The EV9 is best as a quiet family cruiser. It is not as athletic as an EV6, but it is far more practical for passengers and cargo.
Range, Charging & Efficiency
Range depends on trim, battery, drivetrain, wheels, temperature, speed, and driving style. Kia lists the 2026 EV9 Light RWD at 230 miles of targeted range, the Light Long Range RWD at 305 miles, Wind and Land AWD at 283 miles, and GT-Line AWD at 280 miles.
| Version | Targeted Range | Combined Efficiency |
| Light RWD | 230 miles | 88 MPGe |
| Light Long Range RWD | 305 miles | 89 MPGe |
| Wind AWD | 283 miles | 84 MPGe |
| Land AWD | 283 miles | 84 MPGe |
| GT-Line AWD | 280 miles | 82 MPGe |
The Light Long Range RWD is the best version for range. The AWD trims are quicker and better in poor weather, but they use more energy.
Charging is one of the EV9’s strongest points. Kia lists AC charging at 6 hours 45 minutes for the 76.1-kWh battery and 8 hours 45 minutes for the 99.8-kWh battery using an 11-kW EVSE. Under 350-kW EVSE conditions, Kia lists DC fast-charge times of 20 minutes for the smaller battery and 24 minutes for the larger battery.
| Charging Type | EV9 Light | EV9 Long-Range / AWD Trims |
| AC 11-kW Level 2 | 6 hr 45 min | 8 hr 45 min |
| DC Fast Charge 50 kW | 63 min | 83 min |
| DC Fast Charge 350 kW | 20 min | 24 min |
| On-Board Charger | 10.9 kW | 10.9 kW |
The EV9 also includes an illuminated NACS charge port with powered door on all 2026 trims, while Kia notes the DC adapter is optional and standard in ZEV states.
Home charging is still the best way to own an EV9. Public fast charging makes road trips possible, but charging at home is what makes daily ownership simple.
0–60 MPH Acceleration
Tested under real-world driving conditions.
| Version Tested | 0–60 MPH | Notes |
| EV9 Light RWD | 7.7 seconds | Adequate for a large family EV |
| EV9 Light Long Range RWD | 8.8 seconds | Range-focused, slowest EV9 |
| EV9 Wind AWD | 5.7 seconds / 5.0 seconds with higher torque setting | Best performance-value mix |
| EV9 Land AWD | 5.7 seconds / 5.0 seconds with higher torque setting | Strong and premium |
| EV9 GT-Line AWD | 5.0 seconds | Quickest regular 2026 EV9 |
Kia’s official 2026 EV9 specifications list the 0–60 mph times above, with AWD trims clearly much quicker than the rear-wheel-drive versions.
The EV9 is not a sports SUV, but AWD versions are fast enough to surprise many drivers. The instant torque makes merging, passing, and city driving feel effortless.
Interior, Comfort & Technology
The Kia EV9’s interior is one of its biggest strengths. It gives families a quiet cabin, real three-row space, a flat EV floor, strong second-row comfort, and useful cargo room.
Front legroom is 41.4 inches, second-row legroom is 42.8 inches, and third-row legroom is 30.8 inches with a second-row bench or 32.0 inches with captain’s chairs. Kia lists 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 43.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 81.7 cubic feet behind the first row.
| Interior Measurement | Kia EV9 |
| Front Legroom | 41.4 in. |
| Second-Row Legroom | 42.8 in. |
| Third-Row Legroom with Bench | 30.8 in. |
| Third-Row Legroom with Captain’s Chairs | 32.0 in. |
| Cargo Behind Third Row | 20.2 cu. ft. |
| Cargo Behind Second Row | 43.5 cu. ft. |
| Cargo Behind First Row | 81.7 cu. ft. |
| RWD Frunk Capacity | 3.2 cu. ft. |
| AWD Frunk Capacity | 1.8 cu. ft. |
The EV9’s second row is excellent for family use. Captain’s chairs make third-row access easier, while the bench setup gives buyers seven-passenger capacity.
The third row is more useful than the third row in many smaller SUVs. Adults can fit for shorter trips, and children will have enough room for regular family use.
Cargo space is also strong. The 20.2-cubic-foot space behind the third row is useful for groceries, small luggage, backpacks, and daily gear. Folding the third row opens the EV9 into a very practical family hauler.
Technology depends on trim, but the EV9’s feature list is strong. Standard EV-specific features include regenerative braking, battery heating, a NACS charge port, an on-board charger, and paddle shifters for regenerative braking. AWD trims add heat pump equipment, e-AWD, terrain modes, and stronger cold-weather usability.
| Feature | Availability |
| Regenerative braking | Standard |
| Battery heating system | Standard |
| NACS charge port with powered door | Standard |
| Heat pump | Standard on AWD trims |
| e-AWD with terrain modes | Standard on AWD trims |
| Self-leveling rear suspension | Standard on Land and GT-Line |
| 19-inch wheels | Standard on Light, Light Long Range, and Wind |
| 20-inch wheels | Standard on Land |
| 21-inch wheels | Standard on GT-Line |
| Relaxation second-row package | Optional on GT-Line |
The Wind trim has the strongest value. The Land adds comfort and premium equipment, while the GT-Line is the most upscale and visually distinctive version.
Safety Features & Ratings
The Kia EV9 has excellent safety ratings. IIHS lists the 2026 EV9 as a Top Safety Pick+ and gives it Good ratings for small overlap front, updated moderate overlap front, updated side test, headlights, vehicle-to-vehicle front crash prevention, pedestrian front crash prevention, seat belt reminders, and LATCH ease of use.
| Safety Category | IIHS Rating |
| Small overlap front | Good |
| Updated moderate overlap front | Good |
| Updated side test | Good |
| Headlights | Good |
| Front crash prevention: vehicle-to-vehicle 2.0 | Good |
| Front crash prevention: pedestrian | Good |
| Seat belt reminders | Good |
| LATCH ease of use | Good |
IIHS also lists standard blind spot detection, standard lane departure warning and prevention, and standard rear automatic braking on the 2026 EV9.
Kia’s 2026 EV9 feature sheet lists standard driver-assistance and EV equipment across the lineup, with higher trims adding more advanced comfort and convenience features.
For official crash-test ratings and safety evaluations, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety websites.
Pros and Cons
What We Like
- Real three-row EV practicality
- Strong range on the Light Long Range
- AWD trims are
- Fast charging helps road trips
- Excellent IIHS safety results
What We Don’t Like
- Pricing is high
- AWD lowers range
- Base Light range is limited for road trips
- Towing reduces EV efficiency
- Public charging still matters
Should You Buy the Kia EV9?
You should buy the Kia EV9 if you want a real three-row electric SUV with strong space, fast charging, available AWD, excellent safety ratings, and family-focused practicality.
The best trim for most buyers is the Wind AWD. It gives the EV9 the long-range battery, dual-motor performance, AWD confidence, and strong family features without reaching GT-Line pricing.
Choose the Light Long Range RWD if range matters most. It is the best version for families who want the highest targeted range and do not need AWD.
Choose the Land or GT-Line if you want the EV9 to feel more premium. The GT-Line is the most desirable trim, but it is also the most expensive regular version.
You should skip the EV9 if you need the lowest possible three-row SUV price, tow long distances often, cannot charge at home, or regularly drive through areas with weak fast-charging access. In that case, compare the Kia Telluride, Kia Sorento Hybrid, Hyundai Palisade, Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid, or Rivian R1S depending on budget.
FAQs
How much does the Kia EV9 cost?
The 2026 Kia EV9 starts at $54,900 for the Light RWD and reaches $71,900 for the GT-Line AWD before destination, options, taxes, and dealer fees.
Which Kia EV9 trim is best?
The Wind AWD is the best trim for most buyers. It has the larger 99.8-kWh battery, dual-motor AWD, strong acceleration, and a 283-mile targeted range without the higher price of the Land or GT-Line.
Is the Kia EV9 fully electric?
Yes. The Kia EV9 is a fully electric three-row SUV. It does not use a gasoline engine, hybrid system, or plug-in hybrid powertrain.
What is the Kia EV9 range?
The 2026 EV9 has a targeted range of 230 miles for Light RWD, 305 miles for Light Long Range RWD, 283 miles for Wind and Land AWD, and 280 miles for GT-Line AWD.
How fast does the Kia EV9 charge?
Kia lists DC fast-charge times of 20 minutes for the 76.1-kWh battery and 24 minutes for 99.8-kWh battery trims under 350-kW EVSE conditions. Level 2 charging is listed at 6 hours 45 minutes for the smaller battery and 8 hours 45 minutes for the larger battery using an 11-kW EVSE.
Does the Kia EV9 have all-wheel drive?
Yes. The Wind, Land, and GT-Line trims use dual-motor AWD. The Light and Light Long Range trims are rear-wheel drive.
How many people does the Kia EV9 seat?
The Kia EV9 seats six or seven passengers depending on trim and second-row configuration. Captain’s chairs reduce seating to six but make third-row access easier.
How much cargo space does the Kia EV9 have?
The EV9 has 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row, 43.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 81.7 cubic feet behind the first row.
Can the Kia EV9 tow?
Yes. Kia lists towing capacity at 2,000 lbs for RWD trims, 3,500 lbs for Wind AWD, and 3,500–5,000 lbs for Land and GT-Line when properly equipped.
Is the Kia EV9 safe?
Yes. The 2026 Kia EV9 earned IIHS Top Safety Pick+ status and received Good ratings across the listed crashworthiness, crash avoidance, headlight, seat belt, and LATCH categories.
Is the Kia EV9 better than the Kia Telluride?
The EV9 is better if you want fully electric driving, lower home-charging running costs, quicker AWD performance, and a quieter cabin. The Telluride is better if you want lower starting price, easier long-distance refueling, and no charging planning.
Is the Kia EV9 good for road trips?
Yes, the EV9 can work well for road trips if you choose a long-range version and plan charging stops. The Light Long Range RWD is the best range choice, while AWD trims offer stronger performance with slightly lower range.
Summary
The Kia EV9 is one of the strongest electric three-row SUVs for families who want real space, modern tech, fast charging, and available AWD. It gives Kia an EV that can serve many of the same family needs as the Telluride, but with quieter electric driving and lower running costs for owners who can charge at home.
Overall, the Kia EV9 is a smart electric family SUV for buyers ready to move beyond gas three-row crossovers. Choose the Light Long Range if range matters most, the Wind AWD for the best balance, the Land for extra comfort, and the GT-Line if you want the most premium EV9 experience.