The 2025 Kia EV9 marks a major milestone in Kia’s evolution from a value-oriented brand to a leader in electric mobility. As the company’s first three-row all-electric SUV, the EV9 is designed to blend luxury, performance, and sustainability in a single, futuristic package. With bold styling, impressive electric range, and a spacious, tech-laden interior, the EV9 challenges premium rivals while offering practicality for families seeking a zero-emission vehicle.
Bold and Modern Exterior Design
The Kia EV9 commands attention with its confident, geometric design language. Built on Kia’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP)—the same architecture that underpins the EV6—it embodies the brand’s “Opposites United” design philosophy. The exterior combines clean lines with sharp, angular surfaces, creating a striking visual presence.
The front end features the signature Digital Tiger Face, flanked by vertical LED headlights and intricate Star Map Daytime Running Lights (DRLs). The minimalist grille and flush door handles emphasize aerodynamics while maintaining a futuristic aesthetic. From the side, the SUV’s large 21-inch wheels, muscular fenders, and floating roofline give it a commanding road stance. At the rear, the slim, vertical LED taillights and full-width light bar complement the EV9’s modern personality.
Overall, the EV9’s design is bold yet functional, with aerodynamic elements carefully integrated to reduce drag and enhance efficiency.
Spacious and Luxurious Interior
Step inside the Kia EV9, and it’s clear that comfort and technology are at the forefront. The SUV offers a three-row seating configuration, available in both six- and seven-seat layouts. The second-row captain’s chairs (in the six-seat version) can swivel 180 degrees—an innovative feature that turns the cabin into a social lounge for passengers.
Premium materials dominate the cabin, including vegan leather upholstery, soft-touch surfaces, and sustainable elements like recycled plastics and bio-based fabrics. The dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays—one for the instrument cluster and one for infotainment—are connected by a 5-inch screen that handles climate controls. The dashboard layout is minimalist, focusing on digital functionality rather than physical buttons.
Other interior highlights include customizable ambient lighting, a Meridian 14-speaker sound system, multi-zone climate control, and generous storage throughout. The third-row seats, while more compact, are suitable for children or short trips, and with all seats folded, the EV9 offers substantial cargo space for luggage or outdoor gear.
Electric Powertrain and Performance
The 2025 Kia EV9 is available in multiple configurations, offering both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) options. It features two battery pack sizes—76.1 kWh and 99.8 kWh—depending on the trim level and market.
- Base RWD model: 215 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque.
- Long-Range RWD model: Prioritizes efficiency, offering the highest driving range.
- AWD Dual-Motor variant: Produces up to 379 horsepower and 700 Nm of torque, delivering brisk acceleration.
In terms of performance, the AWD model can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in around 5.3 seconds, making it one of the quickest large electric SUVs in its segment. Despite its size and weight, the EV9 handles corners confidently, with responsive steering and a composed ride thanks to its low center of gravity and well-tuned suspension.
Range and Charging Efficiency
Range anxiety is unlikely to be an issue with the EV9. The RWD Long Range version offers up to 304 miles (around 489 km) of EPA-estimated range, while the AWD model delivers around 270–280 miles (435–450 km). In India, the ARAI-certified range stands at 561 km on a full charge.
Thanks to its 800-volt electrical architecture, the EV9 supports ultra-fast DC charging—capable of charging from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes when connected to a 350 kW charger. With compatible charging infrastructure, you can gain roughly 240 km of range in under 15 minutes.
For home charging, the EV9’s 11 kW onboard charger provides reliable overnight recharging. The SUV also supports Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, meaning it can power external devices such as camping equipment, tools, or even another electric vehicle—essentially turning it into a mobile power source.
Cutting-Edge Technology
Kia has equipped the EV9 with some of its most advanced technology to date. The infotainment system runs Kia’s latest Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) software, offering over-the-air (OTA) updates, wireless smartphone integration, and AI-based voice assistance.
The EV9 also introduces Digital Key 2.0, which allows owners to unlock and start the vehicle using a smartphone or smartwatch. In addition, the SUV supports Kia’s Highway Driving Pilot (HDP) system, which enables Level 2 semi-autonomous driving features.
Other high-tech features include a head-up display, surround-view camera, and customizable driver profiles that remember preferred seat positions, climate settings, and infotainment preferences.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety is a top priority in the 2025 Kia EV9. The SUV comes standard with Kia’s comprehensive DriveWise suite of driver assistance technologies, which includes:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Junction Crossing
- Blind-Spot View Monitor
- Lane-Keeping and Lane-Follow Assist
- Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance
- Safe Exit Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
The EV9 also features multiple radar sensors and cameras, providing 360-degree awareness and enhanced collision prevention. Its rigid body structure, combined with strategically placed battery protection zones, enhances occupant safety in case of an impact.
Driving Experience
On the road, the EV9 feels remarkably composed and refined. The electric motors deliver instant torque, resulting in smooth and effortless acceleration. The cabin remains whisper-quiet, thanks to excellent insulation and the absence of engine noise.
Ride comfort is a strong point, with the suspension tuned to absorb road imperfections effectively. In AWD variants, grip and stability are impressive, even on slippery terrain. Drivers can also select from multiple drive modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, and Terrain, allowing the EV9 to adapt to different driving conditions.
The regenerative braking system is adjustable, letting drivers choose between light and aggressive regeneration—or even use “i-Pedal” mode for one-pedal driving.
Pricing and Availability
Pricing for the 2025 Kia EV9 varies by market and trim. In the United States, it starts around $56,000 for the base model and can reach $75,000+ for the high-end GT-Line variant. In India and other markets, the EV9 is expected to arrive as a premium import, commanding a higher price due to taxes and import duties.
While not inexpensive, the EV9’s blend of range, performance, space, and premium features justifies its positioning as Kia’s flagship SUV.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Spacious three-row interior with premium materials
- Excellent range and ultra-fast charging
- Advanced driver assistance and connectivity tech
- Smooth, quiet ride and strong performance
- Innovative V2L power feature
Cons:
- Expensive compared to smaller EVs
- Large dimensions may be challenging in tight spaces
- Limited charging infrastructure in some regions
- Third-row seats best for short trips
Verdict: A Game-Changer for Electric SUVs
The 2025 Kia EV9 represents a bold leap into the future of electric mobility. It successfully combines the practicality of a full-size SUV with the innovation of next-generation EV technology. With a strong electric range, luxurious interior, and advanced safety features, it’s a standout option for families seeking a sustainable yet sophisticated ride.
While its price and size may not suit everyone, the EV9 demonstrates that Kia can compete with—and even surpass—established premium electric SUV brands. For those looking to transition to electric without compromising on comfort or capability, the Kia EV9 2025 is one of the most compelling choices in today’s EV market.
