Kia EV9 Electric 3-Row SUV Launched In India At ₹1.30 Crore

Kia India has unveiled its latest electric flagship, the EV9, priced at ₹1.30 crore (ex-showroom, India). This launch marks a significant step for the South Korean automaker as it brings its electric flagship to the Indian market. The Kia EV9 is a three-row electric SUV, and its launch follows the success of its petrol and diesel siblings like the Carnival, but it aims to carve a niche in the electric vehicle (EV) segment. Notably, the EV9 was also crowned the 2024 World Car of the Year, further solidifying its global appeal and advanced capabilities.

The Kia EV9 adopts the brand's latest design philosophy, termed Digital Tiger Face, which is reflected in its futuristic and minimalist exterior. As with most EVs, it features a closed-off grille that contributes to its aerodynamic efficiency. The front end is complemented by vertically aligned headlamps and L-shaped LED daytime running lights (DRLs), enhancing its imposing stance on the road.

Rolling on 20-inch dual-tone alloy wheels with a unique triangular pattern, the EV9 exudes a bold and distinctive look. Its rear design is equally striking, featuring vertically oriented taillamps with inverted L-shaped lighting elements, which echo the design of the front lights. The charging port is conveniently located on the right rear fender. Buyers have five colour options to choose from, including Snow White Pearl, Ocean Blue, Panthera Metal, Pebble Gray and Aurora Black Pearl.

Inside, the Kia EV9 offers a luxurious and tech-laden cabin. The dashboard is dominated by three screens- a 12.3-inch touchscreen for infotainment, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a smaller 5-inch screen dedicated to HVAC controls. This layout adds a futuristic and user-friendly appeal to the cabin. Touch-based controls positioned below the infotainment display contribute to the clean, minimalist aesthetic.

The EV9 is available in a six-seater configuration, with captain seats in the second row. These seats offer power adjustment, massage functions, and heating and cooling capabilities, ensuring maximum comfort for passengers. They also come with ottoman-style footrests, adding a premium touch to the cabin experience. The interior follows a dual-tone black and brown theme. 

Kia has equipped the EV9 with a host of premium technology and features to enhance convenience, entertainment, and safety. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard, along with a wireless charger and three-zone climate control. Other notable features include a powered tailgate, a 14-speaker Meridian audio system, and a 360-degree camera for enhanced visibility and manoeuvring in tight spaces.

In terms of safety, the EV9 excels with 10 airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), hill-hold assist, and all-wheel disc brakes. The vehicle also comes with Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), offering 27 safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features ensure that the EV9 is not only technologically advanced but also prioritizes passenger safety.

The Kia EV9 is powered by a dual-motor setup that produces an impressive 379 bhp and 700 Nm of torque, delivering strong acceleration and all-wheel drive capability. The EV9 can sprint from 0 to 100 kmph in 5.3 seconds, a commendable performance for a vehicle of its size and weight.

The SUV is equipped with a 99.8 kWh battery, which offers an estimated range of 561 km as per the ARAI testing standards. This range makes it a viable option for long-distance travel, a crucial factor in the Indian market. Fast charging is supported, with Kia claiming the battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes using a 350 kW DC charger, making it one of the quicker charging options in its segment.

The Kia EV9 measures 5,015 mm in length, 1,980 mm in width, and 1,780 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,100 mm, offering ample space for passengers in all three rows. Its size ensures that it delivers the spaciousness expected of a large SUV, making it ideal for families or those who require extra seating and cargo capacity. 

In India, the EV9 stands out as one of the very few three-row electric SUVs, with its main rival being the Mercedes-Benz EQB, priced between ₹70.90 lakh and ₹77.50 lakh. However, the EV9 also competes with luxury electric SUVs like the Audi Q8 e-tron (priced between ₹1.14 crore and ₹1.32 crore) and the BMW iX, which is priced at ₹1.39 crore (all prices ex-showroom, India). While the EV9 is positioned slightly higher than the EQB, its more advanced features, longer range, and premium design make it a strong competitor to the other luxury electric SUVs in its price bracket.