The Kia EV6 is one of the best electric vehicles currently on sale and a few weeks ago, the South Korean company launched the second model in its new-age EV range, the EV9. It takes the form of a big SUV with three rows of seating and could prove to be particularly popular in the United States.
Hot off the car’s online debut, Kia recently presented it to the world at the Seoul Mobility Show and YouTuber CarSceneKorea had the chance to check it out in person in both standard and flagship GT-Line guises.
The EV9 immediately makes an impression thanks to the bold exterior design that looks almost identical to the concept. This is particularly evident at the front end where the EV9 can be optioned with ‘Star Map LED DRLs that look just like the ones on the concept. Plus, they don’t come standard on all trim levels.
Much of the YouTuber’s video is focused on the interior. The cabin of the EV9 does share some similarities to other models, such as with its digital instrument cluster and large infotainment screen but for the most part, there are no other significant parts shared with other Kia models. One of the highlights of the interior is the second-row swivel seats that can spin 180 degrees so the second-row and third-row face each other. While the legroom is limited in this mode, it’s still a neat feature to have.
Read: 2024 Kia EV9 Detailed, Offers Power Boost Via Subscription And Up To 338 Miles Of Range
Higher-end variants of the Kia EV9, such as the GT-Line, can also be equipped with digital side mirrors and come installed with Kia’s Highway Driving Pilot (HDP) system, a Level 3 semi-autonomous function that can be enabled with a simple press of a button wheel on the steering wheel. The GT-Line can also be equipped with two separate sunroofs, one for the front row, and one for the second row.
Kia has not yet announced full specifications for the North American EV9 models. However, we know the EV9 is based on an 800-volt architecture and has up to 338 miles (541 km) of range on the WLTP cycle. Various powertrain options will be offered, including a rear-wheel drive model with 201 hp and 258 lb-ft (350 Nm), a rear-wheel drive model with 215 hp and 258 lb-ft (350 Nm), and a twin-motor version with 378 hp and 442 lb-ft (600 Nm). Kia has also confirmed a performance-focused EV9 GT is in the works.