2023-12-15 17:36:35
• Auto123 conducts a first test of the 2024 Kia EV9.
Phoenix, Arizona – Kia’s new all-electric family vehicle has been long awaited, but now it’s here with us. We went to Arizona to put the largest electric SUV produced to date by the Korean brand to the test.
The Kia EV9 positions itself in the still very limited world of three-row electric SUVs. This electric SUV with dimensions worthy of the leaders in the field announces imposing dimensions for a South Korean. The EV9 is large – it’s 5.01 meters long, 1.98 meters wide and 1.78 meters high – and it was clearly designed to appeal to the North American market.
The model is available in three versions, Light, Wind and Land. We can add to this two choices of packages (Premium and GT Line) to add groups of options to the vehicle. The first two versions are rear-wheel drive while the EV9 Land is available with all-wheel drive.
In terms of battery size, the entry-level version benefits from a 76.1 kWh battery while the other two versions are equipped with the 99.8 kWh battery.
Photo : K. Soltani
Unveiling of 2024 Kia EV9
Design you Kia EV9 2024
The EV9 features a bold and modern exterior design. If its dimensions are talked about, the same can be said for its lines. At the front, the full-size grille which matches the color of the body and the “tiger nose” design gives a particular look to this EV9. However, the element that does not go unnoticed when you come face to face with this SUV are the daytime running lights (DRL) which adopt a brand new digital grid supported by 12 fine lamps arranged vertically, thus adding a touch of high technology .
At the rear, the simplicity of the rear window, without visible wiper, and the graphic design of the taillights, positioned vertically, reinforce its elegant and futuristic appearance. The cohesive body design, reinforced by clean lines and gloss black elements, underlines the luxury character of the vehicle. He could discern, seen from behind, a resemblance to a certain Swedish family SUV.
However, the wheel designs (available in 19″, 20″ or 21″) send a jarring visual message. That is to say that this design, in my eyes, does not reflect the image of technology that the brand wishes to project. True, when it comes to EVs, there is an aerodynamic objective, but Kia could have pushed a little to have more modern wheels.
Photo : K. Soltani
Kia EV9 2024, interior
Inside
The EV9 offers generous space and displays a commitment to sustainability through the use of recycled materials. The front seats, made of artificial leather, offer features such as heating, air conditioning, massage and even a relaxation function (for the driver and only in the most luxurious livery).
The seating configuration is flexible, with options for six to seven seats and even offering, in the GT Line version, lounge-type seats with footrests in the front and rear captain’s chairs.
The cabin is decorated with a large panoramic screen for navigation and the entertainment system which unfortunately seems to have been placed on the dashboard when it would be very easy to integrate it for a more harmonious visual experience.
Photo : K. Soltani
Kia EV9 2024 bleu
Motorization of the 2024 Kia EV9
For the design of this new flagship, Kia relies on its eGMP platform already used for the EV6. This platform, designed for electric vehicles, allows flexibility in model design and ensures powerful driving performance, enhanced safety and greater autonomy; In this case we are talking about 489 km.
Optimal weight distribution promotes traction for both rear- and all-wheel drive models. The platform also minimizes the loss of autonomy in cold weather thanks to a heat pump.
The EV9 is powered by two types of batteries. The first 76.1 kWh delivers 215 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The second battery, 99.8 KWh, installed on the other two versions, develops 201 horsepower and 258 lb-ft with rear-wheel drive, while the high-end four-wheel drive version generates 379 horsepower by combining 189.5 horsepower with rear-wheel drive. ‘front and 189.5 horsepower at the rear. Torque is also almost doubled, reaching 516 lb-ft.
Towing capacity can range from 1,000 lbs to 5,000 lbs depending on the configuration chosen.
Photo : K. Soltani
The rear of the 2024 Kia EV9
Autonomy
The 76.1 kWh battery allows a range of 370 km. With the second battery, the 99.8 kWh will allow you to reach 439 to 489 km depending on the traction mode selected and the equipment level.
Charging speed
As always with South Koreans, the charging speed is among the best on the market. The 76.1 kWh battery will be fully charged in 6h 45m on a level 2 terminal. In fast charging, allow 20 minutes to go from 20 to 80% with peak loads of 236 KW.
For the large capacity battery, it takes 8h 45m for a full charge at level 2, or 24 minutes for a fast charge with peak charging speeds of 215 KW and 84h on 120V.
Photo : K. Soltani
The all-new 2024 Kia EV9
Embedded technology
As mentioned, the EV9 is packed with technology. The model has an advanced infotainment system with Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay integration, and it benefits from an over-the-air update system to limit visits to the dealership.
Fingerprint recognition and Digital Key 2.0 provide increased security and convenience, while Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) technology provides technologically advanced safety features. These systems are designed to relieve the driver, improve road safety and provide a more relaxed driving experience.
In addition to the traditional lane keeping, frontal collision warning, blind spot monitoring, 360 camera and digital interior rearview mirror, we were able to test the adaptive cruise control. The latter now makes it possible to maintain an adaptive driving pace over a longer period without having to put your hands on the steering wheel. In addition, by activating the indicators to the right or left and after checking the blind spots, the EV9 changes lanes on its own to overtake the vehicle in front of it.
Photo : K. Soltani
Exterior design of Kia EV9 2024
Driving the 2024 Kia EV9
On the road, the EV9 excels in terms of comfort. Its quiet ride and sound insulation offer a feeling of tranquility. Although the vehicle is not specifically aimed at sportiness, its 385 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque ensure easy overtaking and appreciable responsiveness on the highway. Braking is just as effective, but the nose tends to dive during sudden braking. The weight of 2,690 kg betrays the vehicle here.
For our day of driving, Kia had prepared a very nice route for us, mixing highways, secondary winding roads and desert tracks. The first portion, the highway, got us into the swing of things right away. The EV9 is very smooth on the road, its responsiveness and its remarkable silence on board make the journey very pleasant. As soon as you accelerate, you feel an instantaneous and linear thrust, typical of electric vehicles.
The EV9’s handling is impressive. Thanks to the balanced weight distribution and low center of gravity, typical of electric vehicles with floor-mounted batteries, the EV9 offers exceptional cornering stability and reassuring handling, even at higher speeds. This stability is certainly enhanced in our all-wheel drive model, where power is distributed between the front and rear wheels for optimal grip and control.
On secondary roads, the EV9 swallows curves without ever running out of steam. No matter how fast you attack the switchbacks, inside the vehicle, the driver and passenger feel confident.
Photo : K. Soltani
Kia EV9 2024, from the rear
Arriving on the slopes, initially at a good sustained speed, surprisingly, the EV9 seems to handle like a vehicle designed for this type of road. Its all-wheel drive allows it to take turns on clay without ever feeling in danger. Once arriving on very rough small roads, the EV9, moving at less than 10 km/h, took each crevasse and rut very carefully. Here, we wouldn’t have said no to a few more inches of ground clearance.
In short, this drive took place in the smoothness and tranquility that an electric SUV can provide. Neither the considerable weight nor the imposing size of the EV9 disrupted our travels.
Price of the 2024 Kia EV9
Kia EV9 Light RWD (PDSF 59 995 $) – This model includes a 76.1 kWh battery and ensures a range of 370 km. It is only available in rear-wheel drive configuration.
Kia EV9 Wind RWD (PDSF 62 995 $) – This model is equipped with a 99.8 kWh battery, available only in rear-wheel drive configuration and offers a range of 489 km.
Kia EV9 Land AWD (PDSF 64 995 $) – This model offers a dual-motor configuration with a 99.8 kWh battery, allowing a range of 451 km.
Kia EV9 Land + ensemble Premium (PDSF 74 995 $) – This is an upgraded version of the Land AWD model. The range remains unchanged at 451 km.
Kia EV9 Land + ensemble GT-Line (PDSF 78 995 $) – With this package, the model undergoes a slight reduction in autonomy, dropping to 439 km.
The purpose of offering packaged versions is to make the model eligible for government rebates.
According to the manufacturer, orders for the EV9 are already available and it promises that waiting times will not be exaggerated – without, however, committing to giving more exact figures.
The final word
The 2024 Kia EV9 is a bold and innovative proposition in the family electric SUV segment. With its distinctive design, its refined interior, its powerful dual-motor engine and its cutting-edge technologies, it positions itself as a serious player in this still very young market.
The price of the EV9, although substantial, remains competitive, making the model attractive to consumers looking for a spacious, comfortable and efficient electric vehicle. The Kia EV9 is not only a step forward for Kia, but also for the electric vehicle sector as a whole.
Points forts
- Interior space
- Performance with both engines
- Autonomy
- Loading, promising on paper
- Security and technology
- Ecological interior
Weak points
- Wheels
- Screen not embedded in the dashboard
- Driving with the single engine
- Weight could be problematic in avoidance situations
- GT-Line pricing
Photo : K. Soltani
2024 Kia EV9 tested
Competitors of the 2024 Kia EV9
In this fully electric 6-7 seat configuration, the EV9 is alone in its world. Otherwise we can also take a look at these vehicles:
- – Tesla Y
- – Mercedes-Benz VUS EQE/EQS
- – Volvo EX90
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