2026 Kia EV9: Family-Friendly and Fully Electric

Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular, but there are still segments where diversity is sorely lacking. There are plenty of compact, luxury, and performance-oriented models on the market, yet very few options are available for buyers seeking a vehicle capable of meeting the needs of a large family. Kia, always attentive to its customers, was one of the first automakers to establish a strong presence in this segment with the EV9.

The Korean automaker's all-electric SUV is spacious, exceptionally comfortable, and packed with technology. The overall experience is highly enjoyable and even luxurious in upper trims. It also offers surprisingly dynamic handling for a vehicle of its size, especially in the new GT model. In addition, the EV9 is now compatible with the NACS charging system, providing access to Tesla Superchargers.

Lineup and Pricing

The 2026 Kia EV9 lineup consists of four trims, starting with the Light model, which carries a starting price of $62,513 including freight and delivery charges. Needless to say, this is far from a bare-bones vehicle, even in its entry-level form. It comes equipped with 19-inch wheels, advanced driver-assistance technologies, and a refined finish.

For an additional $3,000, buyers can move up to the Wind trim, which features a larger battery pack. That concludes the rear-wheel-drive models. The all-wheel-drive range begins with the Land trim, which starts at $67,513. Finally, the all-new GT sits at the top of the lineup with a starting price of $87,813. Yes, that's a significant jump, but the GT belongs to an entirely different class of vehicle. Simply put, the Kia EV9 GT is capable of leaving many so-called sports cars in the dust.

Category and Competition

Before the arrival of the IONIQ 9, the Kia EV9 was the only truly serious contender in the full-size electric SUV segment. Even now, it remains the benchmark thanks to its unique concept and, more importantly, its ability to satisfy both the practical needs and the whims of the entire family.

Competitors: Hyundai IONIQ 9, VinFast VF9, Volkswagen ID. Buzz

Design and Technology

I have to say that I really like the Kia EV9's design. Its square, rugged appearance gives it a commanding presence on the road, and the designers have done an excellent job integrating modern lighting elements into the package. In short, this is a vehicle that definitely stands out.

The cabin is undoubtedly my favorite aspect of the EV9. The Korean SUV is extremely comfortable, but it's the technological experience that truly sets it apart. The ambient lighting, digital displays, and audio quality all contribute to a feeling that you're riding in a vehicle straight out of the future.

Performance

Things become even more interesting when it comes to the 2026 Kia EV9's powertrain lineup, as the Korean SUV offers four different configurations.

The entry-level version features a 215-horsepower motor producing 258 lb-ft of torque, powered by a 76.1-kWh battery pack. This setup provides approximately 370 kilometres of driving range.

The Wind trim offers a similar experience with 201 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, but its battery capacity increases to 99.8 kWh, allowing for an estimated range of 491 kilometres. In both cases, rear-wheel drive comes standard.

The Land trim adds all-wheel drive, meaning multiple electric motors combine to deliver 379 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. The 99.8-kWh battery is standard, and average range is rated at 451 kilometres.

The GT model uses the same battery pack but boosts output to 501 horsepower and 546 lb-ft of torque. As a result, its estimated range drops to 405 kilometres on a full charge.

Weak Points

The base model is less appealing due to its shorter range, especially considering that only a few thousand extra dollars are needed to move up the lineup, which makes relatively little difference at this price point.

Strengths

This is an extremely versatile vehicle that is enjoyable to drive and capable of pleasing the entire family. The GT model's performance is simply breathtaking.

Signature Element

The Kia EV9 is quite simply the ultimate family electric vehicle.

Final Thoughts

Kia hit a home run with the EV9. The Korean automaker's SUV is a success across the board. It continues to gain popularity, and its rise is far from over.

Jean-Sébastien Poudrier