Introduction Is Bigger Always Better?

The Kia EV9 has entered the electric SUV market with an impressive display of size and utility. But in a world where more compact and efficient vehicles seem to dominate, is bigger really better? When it comes to electric seven-seaters, the Kia EV9 certainly makes a compelling case for itself, offering spaciousness, advanced technology, and comfort that’s unmatched in this segment. In this blog, we’ll break down whether the Kia EV9 lives up to the hype and delivers on all fronts.

Overview of the Kia EV9

The Kia EV9 is a large electric SUV and a sibling to the smaller, more agile EV6. If the EV6 is a small island-hopping airplane, the EV9 is akin to a jumbo jet. With a cabin that makes you feel like you’re sitting in business class, the EV9 aims to combine luxury, spaciousness, and practicality into a cohesive package. It’s one of the few electric cars that can accommodate up to seven passengers, making it an ideal choice for families looking for an electric vehicle.

The EV9’s primary competition includes the upcoming Volvo EX90, the left-hand-drive Tesla Model X, and other premium SUVs like the Audi Q8 e-tron and BMW iX. But unlike its competitors, the EV9 has something unique to offer: the blend of futuristic technology and Kia’s traditionally reliable craftsmanship at a more affordable price point.

Exterior and Design

The first thing you’ll notice about the Kia EV9 is its massive size. It dwarfs the EV6 and makes a bold statement on the road. The SUV design is modern, featuring sharp lines, bold edges, and a high-riding stance that gives it a rugged look. The front of the EV9 is characterized by the now-iconic “tiger nose” grille, which is complemented by sleek LED headlights.

The Kia EV9’s presence is undeniable. Its imposing design and sturdy build give it an attractive, almost luxury-like appearance, though it retains a sense of practicality. It stands out amongst other electric SUVs due to its boxy shape and aggressive front fascia, giving it the look of a vehicle ready for both urban and off-road adventures.

Interior: Luxury Meets Practicality

The interior of the Kia EV9 is a big part of what makes this SUV so special. The cabin is spacious, and the three-screen dashboard setup immediately draws attention. The EV9 features a high-tech interior, with twin large screens for the infotainment and driver display, along with a smaller screen dedicated to climate controls. While this layout might be impressive, the placement of the climate screen could use improvement, as the steering wheel can obstruct its view.

Nonetheless, the EV9’s cabin looks and feels luxurious. The high-quality materials and ergonomic design make for a comfortable experience, especially in the front and second-row seats. Top-spec models even include reclining front seats with footrests—a fantastic feature for maximum comfort during charging stops.

For families, the EV9 offers a unique six-seat configuration that allows second-row seats to swivel 180 degrees to face the rear passengers, creating a conference-style seating arrangement. Although this is a cool feature, it’s a bit cramped in practice. However, the versatility of the seating layout makes it ideal for those who prioritize comfort and flexibility in a family vehicle.

Storage and Boot Space

When it comes to practicality, the Kia EV9 doesn’t disappoint. Even with all three rows of seats in place, the boot still has enough room for a few carry-on bags—offering around 333 liters of space. Folding the rear seats provides a cavernous 828 liters, and there’s even a small front trunk (“frunk”) that adds to the vehicle’s overall practicality.

The Tesla Model X does boast more space, but the EV9’s practical boot layout will still suit the needs of most families. Kia has ensured that storage is efficient and easy to use, even including handy storage spaces for small items and cupholders throughout the cabin.

Performance and Driving Experience

The Kia EV9 comes with two powertrain options: a single-motor rear-wheel drive and a dual-motor all-wheel drive. The single-motor version offers a range of up to 349 miles, whereas the more powerful dual-motor model provides a range of 313 miles and can sprint from 0-62 mph in just 5.3 seconds. Though quick, it’s not quite as blistering as the Tesla Model X, which is known for its warp-factor acceleration.

Despite its size, the Kia EV9 is relatively easy to drive. The spacious cabin can feel intimidatingly large at first, but light steering and powerful motors make maneuvering it a breeze. The suspension is generally smooth, especially at higher speeds, though sharp impacts such as potholes can send noticeable thuds through the cabin. Also, the suspension’s softness means the car can wobble slightly on uneven surfaces, which might cause discomfort for passengers during spirited drives on country roads.

On and Off-Road Capabilities

On the highway, the Kia EV9 feels comfortable and composed. Its suspension smooths out bumps, and the seats are supportive enough to keep passengers relaxed over long journeys. The all-wheel-drive version is also impressive, providing ample power when accelerating, making merging and overtaking simple and stress-free.

However, when it comes to off-road capabilities, the EV9 has its limits. Light off-roading is possible, but the software struggled slightly with more challenging terrain. The EV9 is equipped with different driving modes, including a “mud” setting, but it’s better suited for occasional dirt paths than serious off-road adventures.

Charging and Range

Charging the Kia EV9 is quick and convenient. The vehicle’s 99.8 kWh battery can charge from 10-80% in just 24 minutes when using a 210 kW charger—if you can find one that powerful. The convenience of a heat pump is also included as standard, which helps maintain efficiency in colder weather.

The long-range version of the EV9 has an estimated range of up to 349 miles, making it competitive with other large electric SUVs. Real-world range may vary, and during testing, it was reported that the EV9’s efficiency was closer to 230-250 miles, which is still reasonable given the car’s size and weight.

Technology and Infotainment

Kia has packed the EV9 with plenty of technology to keep drivers and passengers entertained and connected. The large infotainment and driver displays are crisp and responsive, and they come with haptic feedback that makes navigating the system easier without taking your eyes off the road.

The climate control, unfortunately, has a somewhat confusing setup. It uses a combination of physical buttons and a touch screen, but the latter is awkwardly placed and not always easy to see. Despite this, the infotainment system itself is easy to use and comes with standard features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The inclusion of driver assistance systems makes the EV9 feel even more premium. Features like lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree camera make driving this large SUV more convenient and less stressful.

Price and Value

The Kia EV9 starts at around £65,025 and goes up to £77,025 for the top-spec GT-Line S trim. While it may seem expensive for a Kia, it’s considerably cheaper than its rivals like the Volvo EX90 and Tesla Model X. When considering the size, technology, and features on offer, the price actually feels quite reasonable.

For families in need of an electric seven-seater, the Kia EV9 offers excellent value for money. It doesn’t have quite the same level of luxury as some German competitors, but it comes very close, making it an attractive option for those wanting a more unique electric SUV.

Pros and Cons of the Kia EV9

Pros:

• • Spacious and comfortable interior, with a six-seat option for added versatility.

• • Impressive range and fast charging capabilities.

• • Advanced technology and infotainment system.

• • Competitive pricing compared to luxury rivals.

• • Practical boot space even with all seven seats in use.

Cons:

• • Some low-quality plastics in the cabin.

• • Soft suspension can lead to body roll on uneven roads.

• • Climate control screen placement is awkward.

• • Not as luxurious as German competitors.

Conclusion: Should You Buy the Kia EV9?
The Kia EV9 is an impressive electric SUV that has a lot to offer. It’s spacious, comfortable, and packed with technology, making it an ideal choice for families. Its price is also reasonable when compared to competitors, and it delivers practicality without sacrificing style or capability.

However, it does have some minor drawbacks, such as a less premium interior compared to the likes of BMW and Audi, and some quirky design choices regarding its climate controls. Despite these flaws, the Kia EV9 stands as an excellent choice for anyone looking for a large electric SUV that doesn’t blend in with the crowd. It’s big, bold, and makes a statement—showing that bigger can indeed be better when it comes to electric cars.