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EV9: First all-electric three-row SUV from Kia

Kia is continuing its trend of rolling out award-winning vehicles with the introduction of the EV9, the brand's first dedicated three-row all-electric SUV. Slightly longer than the popular Telluride SUV and featuring a cool, angular design, EV9 will come in single- and dual-motor options with two battery sizes and generous interior volume and cargo space. So far, EV9 has won the German Car of the Year 2024 award in the Luxury Category.

The EV9 is the second Kia model based on the E-GMP platform, and the first to feature fourth-gen battery tech designed for improved energy density. From launch, the EV9 will be available with a choice of two powertrain options. Standard is a 76.1-kWh battery with a 160-kW (215-hp) motor that drives the rear wheels. An optional 99.8-kWh battery will be available in the single-motor configuration (201-hp) targeting 300 miles of all-electric range. EV9 will also come with a dual-motor, 283-kW (379-hp) torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive (AWD) configuration with up to 516 lb-ft of torque. Drive modes available at launch on all trims include Eco, Normal, Sport, and My Mode, while AWD models adding Snow Mode. Overall, EV9 will be available in four trim levels: Light, Wind, Land, and GT-Line.

EV9 will also offer Boost, designed to improve acceleration through increased front-wheel torque, resulting in a 5-sec 0-60 mph time in certain trim levels.

The EV9's standard 800-V electrical architecture enables ultrafast charging on high-speed DC chargers, designed to go from a 10 to 80% state of charge in under 25 minutes. With a maximum DC charging speed of up to 236 kW, the EV9 can facilitate quick charging with compatible DC chargers. The 10.9-kW onboard charger enables Level 2 charging as well.

EV9 offers up to 7.8 in. of ground clearance with up to 5,000 lb of towing capacity for AWD versions.

The boxy, almost triangular design language of the EV9 emphasizes the push and pull between the short overhangs and long, 122-in. wheelbase. At 197.4 in. in length in the GT-Line (all other trims are 197.2 in. long) the EV9 is slightly longer than the Telluride SUV and comparable in height (up to 70.1 in. in the GT-Line with raised roof rails) and width (77.9 in.).

Up front is Kia's signature "Tiger Nose" grille enhanced with standard Star Map daytime running lights. The grille also features animated light formations as part of the available Dynamic Welcome Light feature. In the rear, slim Star Map taillights draw attention to the corners of the EV9's body. Standard flush door handles with automatic deployment are seamlessly integrated into the sheet metal, underscoring the EV9's clean side profile lines. The design language in general is reminiscent of a crystal with rounded points.

The GT-Line elevates its appearance with a number of upgrades. Raised roof rails and exterior side mirrors are finished in gloss black, while body-colored pockets on the front fascia incorporate a sense of ruggedness. Front and rear bumpers are adorned in black with gunmetal trim, complemented by dark-colored beltline molding.

Standard, advanced ultrawide band-based Digital Key 2 allows customers to use their compatible Apple and Samsung smart devices or an NFC-enabled smart card as virtual vehicle keys to lock, unlock, and drive.

Inside, EV9 sports a driver cockpit with an elliptical-shaped dash designed to have a floating effect. A wide panoramic display sits on top, maximizing digital usability with standard dual 12.3-in. screens and a 5-in. HVAC screen seamlessly integrated into one single panel.

Underneath the screen are centrally mounted, hidden-until-lit haptic switches for key infotainment features that appear when the EV9 is turned on. Depending on trim level, the driving experience can be elevated with an array of available features, including a 12-in. full-color head-up display. An available Full Display Mirror replaces the conventional rear-view mirror with a camera view.

Every seat inside the EV9 is aimed to be as comfortable as possible. Second row passengers are treated to 42.8 in. of legroom. Headroom is measured at 39.8 in. (without sunroof), and shoulder room provides 60 in. of space. The flat floor makes everything seem more roomy. In the third row, occupants have 32 in. of legroom. In the seven-seat configuration, the second-row bench allows easy access to the third row thanks to a tilting walk-in system. Choosing the Captain's Chairs option arranges the seating to accommodate six passengers and offers Relaxation Mode with power-operated leg rests and enhanced heating and cooling. With all three rows raised, the EV9 offers 20.2 cubic ft of cargo space.

Drawing inspiration from the award-winning Telluride's much-loved interior, the EV9 offers a variety of earth-toned interior color combinations for an upscale and refined ambiance. The interior features non-leather polyurethane seating surfaces, select BTX-free paint on certain interior trim pieces, and select fabrics and carpets composed of partially recycled materials.

EV9 is the first Kia model to offer vehicle system over-the-air updates. The electric SUV also refines and expands Kia's roster of standard and available Advanced Driver Assistance Systems. Debuting on the EV9 in North America is the forthcoming Advanced Highway Driving Assist, an available driving feature that utilizes LiDAR-based technology to help maintain distance from the vehicle detected ahead and helps keep the EV9 in the center of detected lane markers.

Central to the 20 standard ADAS features is Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, which has been enhanced on the EV9 to detect vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists in front of the vehicle while driving; oncoming vehicles while turning left at an intersection; and crossing vehicles while passing through an intersection. The system is also designed to help provide a degree of braking and/or steering input to help prevent or minimize certain collisions.

EV9 is expected to go on sale in the U.S. before the end of this year. It will be built in West Point, GA. The base price is $54,900. This price will get you the EV9 Light RWD that will come standard with DC fast-charging capability, roomy accommodations for up to seven passengers, full SynTex leather-trimmed seating, 19-in. alloy wheels, and 8-way power adjustable driver's seat with heating and ventilation -- all powered by a seamless permanent magnet synchronous electric motor that produces 215 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque.

Learn more at kia.com/us/en/ev9. Reservations are being accepted now.

Source: Kia

Published October 2023

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