Kia made major waves in the EV marketplace with the launch of their critically-acclaimed EV6. Now they look to follow that up in 2023 with an all-new 3-row family hauler in the Kia EV9. I‘ve taken a deep-dive on the specs, secrets and potential from this electric SUV of the future to be your friendly insider guide. Buckle up as we explore what could be Kia‘s most important model yet…
Overview: Kia Goes Big with the EV9
After the smash success of the EV6, Kia is expanding their electric vision to larger utility vehicles. The Kia EV9, previewed in 2021, will be their first entry into the red-hot segment of premium electric SUVs. This 3-row family carrier promises impressive range, future-forward tech, and unique flexibility that could shake up the segment.
Here‘s a quick rundown of the key things you need to know:
- 300+ mile range
- Seating for up to 7 passengers
- 77.4kWh or 100kWh battery options predicted
- Fast charging Adding over 200 miles of range in under 30 minutes
- Starting price likely under $60,000
- Funky features: rotating seats, mega touchscreens
Once on sale in late 2023 as a 2024 model year, the Kia EV9 will compete directly with SUVs like the Rivian R1S, Tesla Model X, and upcoming Volkswagen ID.8. Landing in an SUV size segment that‘s red-hot yet lacking EV options to date, the EV9 lands at just the right time for families to electrify their adventures.
Now let‘s explore everything we know so far about the Kia EV9 in much greater detail…
Kia EV9: Powertrain, Range and Charging Expectations
Battery and Driving Range
Built on the dedicated E-GMP electric platform enabling the EV6, Kia has hinted at a real figth for range leadership. Early estimates peg the Kia EV9 range at over 300 miles on a full charge.
How might they hit such strong range numbers? Two likely battery options are:
- 77.4kWh – Same "long range" battery found in top EV6 trims currently
- 100kWh – A first for Kia and likely available on upper EV9 trims
Engineers are surely focused on driving efficiency from the aero design, low rolling resistance tires and regenerative braking to maximize any battery deployed. If Kia can truly beat 330 miles of range, they will have family EV bragging rights.
Charging Capabilities
Besides delivering on rated driving range, fast and convenient charging is essential for any modern EV hitting the market. Kia plans to implement the latest 800V technology from sister company Hyundai into the architecture enabling:
350kW DC Fast Charging
- 10 to 80% charge possible in under 30 minutes
- Adding over 200 miles of range in less than 20 minutes
Level 2 AC Charging
- Full charge overnight at home
- Up to 9.6kW charging rate likely on premium trims
This level of ultra-rapid recovery helps relieve range anxiety when road tripping in the EV9. Especially as public stations continue proliferating.
Exterior and Interior Design Preview
Teased initially in concept form back in 2021, we‘ve only recently seen camouflaged EV9 test vehicles on public roads. Here‘s an early read based on spy photos and released concept images:
Boxy, Upright Styling Cues
The Kia EV9 carries several aesthetic nods to the successful Telluride SUV with its tall, blocky silhouette. Squared off wheel wells and a prominent front grille establish rugged personality. Full-width LED taillights create striking nighttime presence.
Sculpted hood creases, a rear spoiler and angular bumpers hint at the sporty GT-line model likely joining the lineup too. Overall, a balance of off-road readiness meets modern familiy appeal.
Minimalist Tech-Forward Cabin
Glimpses at the stunning EV9 concept interior highlight Kia‘s ambitions to push boundaries. The production model is all but guaranteed to be toned down from the shockingly minimalist cabin revealed. But certain touches like dual panoramic displays spanning the dash, ambient lighting and a clean clutter-free layout should carry over nicely.
The unique ability to rotate front seats backwards hints at even more versatility to come too. Light, natural color schemes and premium seating materials give the EV9 true luxury credentials. Both family friendliness and premium appointments seem probable.
Engaging and Flexible Seating Modes
One major point of differentiation Kia is touting with the EV9 lies with the highly reconfigurable seating modes engineered. In between carting kids to school and gear to the slopes, the interior can morph to suit varied situations.
There are 3 distinct seating modes Kia has teased so far:
Active Mode
The default 3 row SUV configuration prioritizing passenger capacity.
Pause Mode
Rotates the front seats rearwards facing the 2nd row which folds down into a table surface. 3rd row still faces forward. Perfect for picnic stops and taking in the scenery.
Stationary Mode
Flips 3rd row seats around to face out the rear hatch opening. Front seats swivel around too for the ultimate in flexibility. Hello, sunset tailgates!
The versatility presented by these unique seating arrangements isn‘t found on rival SUVs. Families will love the creative possibilities.
Safety Tech and Driver Assistance Features
Part and parcel with modern EVs is integrating the latest high-tech driver assistance and safety capabilities. The Kia EV9 is sure to deliver peace of mind on this front as well.
As the flagship SUV model, expect every major system found on the EV6 carried over including:
- Forward Collision Avoidance
- Blindspot View Monitor
- Highway Drive Assist
- Remote Smart Park Assist
- Safe Exit Warning
- Parking Collision Assist
- 10 Airbags
Additionally, Kia highlights a new "Automode" suite of capabilities is coming allowing for autonomous highway driving support. This hints at Level 3 self-driving readiness to take the stress out of traffic.
Both active safety aids and passive protections like the rigid steel frame meet top safety expectations for the times.
Charged Up: EV Shoppers Eagerly Await the Kia EV9
Industry observers, electric vehicle fans and presumably families themselves have expressed tempered excitement for the Kia EV9 so far. The winning formula of range, performance, practicality and value that Kia nailed with the EV6 seems poised to carry over. Yet in a more spacious, tech-loaded package this time around.
If the 2023 launch timing holds, the marketplace will be primed for a new 3-row EV contender. Especially if range, fast charging, and interior flexibility claims measure up. Offer all that with a sub $60,000 starting price point, and the Kia EV9 cements its spot on shopping lists.
As EV educate and comfort levels grow in the masses, the Kia EV9 is ready to absorb converts. The concept and early details indicate consumers just may soon witness the new darling family EV emerge.
Conclusion: A Promising Electric SUV Contender
Like its bold styling, the Kia EV9 makes no apologies about chasing range and interior adaptability new to the segment. The Koreans have proven they can disrupt established categories before with surprise hits like the Telluride. Now charging ahead into EVs, they look ready to design the ultimate hassle-free family EV experience.
Specifics remain closely guarded secrets in areas like pricing, options packaging and just how unique those seating configurations will get. But the framework revealed thus far shows immense potential. Class-leading range combined with creative cabin configurability give the Kia EV9 two strong unique selling propositions over the competition.
Of course, it all must still come together cohesively and deliver on those promises when sales open up next year. But the Kia EV9 appears well on its way to make a compelling case as the Swiss Army knife-like family EV hundreds of thousands of customers didn‘t even know they needed. What a ride it will be when this exciting electric SUV finally takes off!
