LA Auto Show 2024: 2026 Kia EV9 GT Debuts With Almost 500 bhp

Kia America has taken the wraps off the 2026 EV9 GT SUV at the Los Angeles Auto Show, as the most powerful three-row SUV in Kia’s history. The EV9 GT follows the success of the EV6 GT while offering the practicality and space of a larger SUV. The Kia EV9 GT will be assembled in South Korea and is expected to go on sale in the latter half of 2025. Pricing details will be announced closer to the release date.

At the core of the EV9 GT’s performance is a dual-motor all-wheel-drive (e-AWD) system. A 160 kW motor at the front and a 270 kW motor at the rear combine to deliver an estimated 494 bhp—a 120 bhp increase over the EV9 GT-Line’s 374 bhp. Kia estimates a 0-100 kmph acceleration time of just 4.3 seconds, significantly faster than the GT-Line’s 5 seconds. The powertrain also features an electronic Limited Slip Differential (e-LSD) to enhance cornering stability by redistributing torque to the tyres with the most grip. 

For a more immersive driving experience, the EV9 GT includes Kia’s exclusive Virtual Gear Shift (VGS) system, which simulates traditional gear shifts using torque adjustments, sound effects, and tactile feedback. Drivers can use steering wheel-mounted paddles for manual “gear” changes. Kia’s electric Active Sound Design (e-ASD) complements VGS by producing synchronized audio cues during gear transitions.

To balance the increased power, the EV9 GT introduces an electronically controlled suspension (ECS), a first for Kia’s SUV lineup. ECS adjusts shock damping, steering, and brake responsiveness based on drive mode selection, which includes Normal, Eco, Sport, and My Drive. Activating the GT mode via a neon green button on the steering wheel sets the suspension to its stiffest configuration for heightened performance. 

The EV9 GT retains the 800-volt fast-charging capability standard across the EV9 lineup, allowing a charge from 10 to 80 per cent in under 25 minutes with compatible DC fast chargers. Starting mid-2025, all EV9 models will feature the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, granting access to approximately 35,000 charging stations across the U.S.

The EV9 GT distinguishes itself with exclusive design elements. Exterior enhancements include 21-inch alloy wheels wrapped in high-performance Continental tyres and bright neon green brake callipers, a nod to the sporty EV6 GT. The front fascia features unique "ENERGETIC" lighting patterns and GT-exclusive air flap designs. 

Inside, the EV9 GT introduces deeply bolstered sports seats with Alcantara suede inserts and neon green accents, providing enhanced support during spirited driving. The neon green motif extends to the steering wheel, dashboard, and trim details. The interior is available in a GT-exclusive Dark Gray and Black colour scheme with contrasting accents. 

The driver interface includes GT-exclusive graphics on a 12.3-inch digital display, while ambient lighting throughout the cabin offers unique patterns exclusive to this trim. Over-the-air updates ensure that new features, such as lighting schemes, can be added post-purchase via the Kia Connect app.

The EV9 GT comes equipped with a robust suite of ADAS features. Parking Collision Avoidance Assist (PCA) detects potential obstacles or pedestrians during parking manoeuvres and can apply emergency braking if necessary. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2 (FCA 2) includes pedestrian, cyclist, and vehicle detection, as well as evasive steering assist, which provides automatic steering input to avoid collisions.