Kia EV9: All You Need to Know

Kia India has launched its flagship electric SUV, the Kia EV9, priced at ₹1.30 crore (ex-showroom). Known globally for being crowned the 2024 World Car of the Year, the EV9 is set to establish itself as a premium electric vehicle in India, following the success of Kia's petrol and diesel models like the Carnival. With its bold design and futuristic features, the EV9 is aimed at offering a luxurious and high-tech driving experience.

The EV9 follows Kia’s Digital Tiger Face design philosophy, characterised by its sleek, minimalist appearance. Its front design includes a closed-off grille for better aerodynamic efficiency, complemented by vertically aligned headlamps and L-shaped LED daytime running lights (DRLs). It rolls on 20-inch dual-tone alloy wheels with a triangular pattern, while the rear features vertical taillamps with inverted L-shaped lighting elements, echoing the front. The charging port is placed on the right rear fender, and buyers have a choice of five exterior colour options—Snow White Pearl, Ocean Blue, Panthera Metal, Pebble Gray, and Aurora Black Pearl. 

Inside, the Kia EV9 offers a technology-laden and luxurious cabin. The dashboard is dominated by three screens—a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a smaller 5-inch screen dedicated to HVAC controls—giving the cabin a clean, futuristic look. The EV9 is configured as a 6-seater with captain chairs in the second row, which come with power adjustments, massage functions, heating, cooling, and ottoman-style footrests for added comfort. The cabin follows a sophisticated dual-tone black and brown theme, enhancing its premium feel.

Kia has packed the EV9 with state-of-the-art technology and convenience features. Standard features include wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a wireless charger, three-zone climate control, a 14-speaker Meridian audio system, and a 360-degree camera to assist with manoeuvring in tight spaces. 

In terms of safety, the Kia EV9 excels, offering a robust set of features. The SUV is equipped with 10 airbags and advanced safety technologies through Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). This includes 27 safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Additionally, the EV9 has all-wheel disc brakes, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and a hill-hold assist for enhanced driving security.

Performance-wise, the Kia EV9 is powered by a dual-motor setup that produces an impressive 379 bhp and 700 Nm of torque, allowing the SUV to accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in just 5.3 seconds. It is fitted with a 99.8 kWh battery, which delivers a range of 561 km as per ARAI standards, making it suitable for long-distance journeys. The EV9 also supports fast charging, with Kia claiming that it can charge from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes using a 350 kW DC charger.

In terms of size, the EV9 offers ample space for passengers across all three rows, thanks to its dimensions of 5,015 mm in length, 1,980 mm in width, and 1,780 mm in height, along with a generous wheelbase of 3,100 mm. This makes it a practical choice for families or those who need extra room for both passengers and cargo.

The Kia EV9 enters the Indian market as one of the few three-row electric SUVs, competing primarily with the Mercedes-Benz EQB, priced between ₹70.90 lakh and ₹77.50 lakh. It also rivals luxury electric SUVs such as the Audi Q8 e-tron (₹1.14 crore - ₹1.32 crore) and the BMW iX (₹1.39 crore). While priced higher than the EQB, the EV9’s advanced technology, longer range, and premium design make it a strong competitor in this segment.