Kia EV9 globally premiered: second dedicated EV from Kia

Kia Motors today unveiled their second EV, the EV9 making it the first three-row electric SUV for the Korean automobile manufacturer. It was showcased as a concept at the Auto Expo 2023 in New Delhi, which then was a glimpse into future of what the brand wanted it to look like with modern and edgy exteriors forming a base for the upcoming EVs. The Kia EV9 represents a pivotal step forward in the manufacturer’s journey towards sustainable mobility.

Kia EV9 design

Guided by Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, the designers have created an SUV with unprecedented visual appeal. Simple clear-cut lines and body surfaces blended with the ‘Digital Pattern Lighting Grille’ and the vertical headlamps make the EV9’s ‘Digital Tiger Face’ very futuristic and give it a modern take on SUV design. The Digital Tiger Face features two clusters of small cube lamps within the bodywork adjacent to each headlamp.

The ‘Bold for Nature’ pillar of the philosophy has played a key role in forming the exterior design of the Kia EV9. It has combined the feeling of ruggedness with the composure of an EV. The side profile of the EV9 keeps the SUV identity intact which also delivers aerodynamic efficiency. The rear of the vehicle has been maintained with clean lines, which are detailed out by the slim tail lights mirroring the design in the front. 

Kia EV9 interior

Built on Kia’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the EV9 has a long wheelbase, a flat floor architecture has resulted in enormous amounts of space and lounge-style comfort for the occupants in all three rows. The EV9 will be offered in both six and seven seat configurations. The second row in the SUV can be swivelled 180 degrees for the occupants to interact with those in the third row with ease. The seats also come with a massage function in addition to the third row getting cup holders and mobile charging points. For the sound buffs, the Kia EV9 has a 14 speaker Meridian Sound System. 

The key aspect while developing the EV9 was to use sustainable materials, and replace the use of leather with recycled, upcycled and plant-based materials. The airy and spacious interiors house the panoramic dashboard which extends from the steering to the center of the vehicle. Two 12.3-inch screens integrated with one 5-inch display enhance the digital experience, offering effortless control of the vehicle’s functions and also ensuring the use of buttons are kept to a minimum. The steering wheel houses the Kia emblem which illuminates upon starting the EV9.

Kia EV9 powertrain

From what we know, the Kia EV9 is powered by a dual motor setup, which churns out 283 kW of power with 600 Nm of torque. The EV9 also gets a 800-volt charging system, which can top up a range of 239km in a 15 minute charging halt. The WLTP range is said to 541 kms on a full charge. 

Kia plans to launch the EV9 in the second quarter of 2023 in select markets and the GT Line version of the EV9 which will be a bit more performance oriented is slated for 2025. Do you think the Kia EV9 will be launched in India? Let us know on our social media handles!