Real-World Review: Kia EV9 99.8 kWh RWD for Families and Everyday Use
The launch of a genuinely competent, family-friendly electric SUV has been eagerly anticipated, and Kia has seized the moment with immense confidence. The Kia EV9 is far more than just another electric vehicle on the market; it is a complete redefinition of the big three-row EV concept. Following its win as the 2024 World Car of the Year, the EV9, especially in its 99.8 kWh RWD form, is creating serious hype. This isn’t just hype. This is a car that so expertly balances forward-thinking design, incredible practicality, and revolutionary technology that you can’t tell if you should aspire to own the vehicle or if it’s perfectly suited for the rigours of daily family life.
As an electric large SUV, the EV9 boldly takes its place in a category that desperately needed a vehicle that could bring such a unique set of capabilities to the table. It’s more than just its imposing, muscular exterior or the serene, lounge-like interior. Kia has developed this vehicle with one mission in mind: to bring long-range electric travel within the reach of as many people as possible. New capabilities, including the enhanced Highway Driving Pilot (HDP) system, a next-generation 800V ultra-fast charging architecture and a cabin made with sustainable materials, set new expectations for consumers. This review will get into the nitty-gritty aspects of the EV9 99.8 kWh RWD and examine how its well-considered engineering and feature set convert into a driving experience on the road. With this, we’ll discuss everything from its unique design language to how it feels on the road and the flawless technology integration that makes it what it is. This is more than a car; it’s a vision of the future for family transportation. The EV9 aims to be a refuge on wheels, a multi-functional workhorse, and a bastion of technology all wrapped up in one. If you’re thinking of making the jump to an electric family car, the EV9 99.8 kWh RWD could very well be the compelling, if not definitive, case for doing so.
Award-Winning Recognition
- Comes to market with a slate of prestigious titles, including 2024 World Car of the Year, a testament to its extraordinary design and engineering.
Purpose-Built for Families
- Features a roomy three-row layout that makes it one of the few truly practical large electric SUVs for growing families.
Pioneering Technology
- Provides an 800V system for high-speed recharging and is equipped with sophisticated driver assistance systems that increase safety and convenience.
Sustainable Innovation
- Applies an assortment of recycled and plant-based materials within the cabin, consistent with a focus on eco-friendly production.
A Quick Overview of the Kia EV9
Here are the essential details we’ll be covering in our in-depth review of the Kia EV9 99.8 kWh RWD, giving you a glimpse into what makes this all-electric SUV a leader in its segment.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Kia |
| Model Year | 2024 |
| Body Type | Large 3-Row Electric SUV |
| Body size | Full-size 3-row electric SUV. |
| Trims Available | ’Air’ and ’GT-Line’, with the 99.8 kWh battery pack available in RWD and AWD variants. |
| Interior and Exterior Styles | Bold geometric ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy featuring a unique Digital Tiger Face, strong and masculine proportions, and a spacious and minimalistic interior that uses sustainable materials and flexible seating configurations. |
| Performance and Driving Review | 99.8 kWh RWD Model The 99.8 kWh RWD isn’t built for speed, but instead focuses on range and comfort with its smooth, linear acceleration and tranquil ride. The drive and riding pleasure are polished and serene, making it the perfect car for family chores and long drives. |
| Powertrain Options | The 99.8 kWh Long Range RWD single-motor configuration is the subject of this review, and it offers an impressive official range. An all-wheel-drive dual-motor configuration is also offered for greater performance. |
| Innovations & Features | Distinguished by its 800V ultra-fast charging, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) including Highway Driving Pilot out, a panoramic triple-display screen and a wide range of sustainable materials for the interior. |
| Comparison | The underlying it competes head-on with other large electric SUVs but manages to differentiate itself with a unique combination of three-row practicality, eye-catching design, and high-speed charging technology. |
| Price Range | As a high-end model in the Kia range, the price of the EV9 99.8 kWh RWD one reflects the fact that it’s very large, has a long-range battery, and lots of cutting-edge technology. |
Design Philosophy: Kia’s Vision for the Future
Kia’s design and engineering methods have evolved significantly, and it is now expressed in the “Opposites United” philosophy. This design principle is not just a marketing statement, but the fundamental philosophy that governs every line and element of their new generation vehicles and the EV9 is the most extreme manifestation of that. The philosophy revolves around five central pillars: Bold for Nature, Joy for Reason, Power to Progress, Technology for Life and Tension for Serenity. The EV9 captures these principles, mixing the rugged geometric patterns found in nature with a calm, high-tech interior cabin experience.
The maker’s dedication to innovation shines through in the EV9. Based on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the platform shares a long wheelbase, a flat floor, and optimised weight distribution, which means that the platform is purpose-built for EVs. This foundation is essential in that it allows the EV9 to achieve its generous interior space and the stable, comfortable driving experience that is its hallmark. Kia’s pronouncements focus on building vehicles that are more than just products of transport but the very best solutions for sustainable living. This can be seen in the brand’s “10 Must-Have Sustainability Items” campaign, a list of sustainable materials that are gradually being used in every new model. This commitment to sustainability, innovation and technology is firmly built into the DNA of the EV9. From the powertrain to the UI, everything has a purpose. The “Technology for Life” pillar, for example, guarantees that products such as the 800V charging system and the large digital cockpit enhance the user experience to be more intuitive, productive, and fun. The EV9 is Kia’s flagship for this bold new era, and a car that shows just because a large family SUV is necessarily big, it doesn’t mean it can’t be one of the most forward-thinking designs on the market.
“Opposites United” Philosophy
The EV9 design merges opposing ideas such as natural shapes and futuristic technology to form a visually powerful and emotionally engaging vehicle.
Dedicated EV Platform
The E-GMP platform provides a spacious, flat-floored cabin and a well-balanced ride, making the most of the advantages of an electric powertrain.
Commitment to Sustainability
Kia EV9 spearheads how Kia uses recycled and plant-based materials and reduces its impact on the environment, without affecting quality or luxury.
Human-Centric Technology
The people behind the innovations are drivers and passengers, and they develop ideas with the driver, navigator and passengers in mind, so the technology itself simplifies and enhances the experience of being behind the wheel.
Architectural Boldness: EV9 99.8 kWh RWD Design & Exterior
The Kia EV9 exterior is a perfect example of bold and contemporary design. It shuns the rounded, generic curves seen on a lot of SUVs and instead gets a bold, polygonal styling treatment that really makes it stand out. At the front, the Digital Tiger Face is a new interpretation of Kia’s signature grille for the era of electric vehicles. In complex “Digital Pattern Lighting”, the vehicle performs a beautiful animated welcome choreography, enhancing the identity of a future-oriented vehicle. Sharp, angular wheel arch cut-outs and a bold shoulder line sweep across the clean, wide surface of the body, lending the vehicle an uncompromised feeling of toughness and stability.
The proportions of the architecture itself are astonishing. Still, the EV9 manages not to look clunky even with its bulging, monstrous dimensions, thanks to some stylised design cues. The long wheelbase moves the wheels out to the corners, creating a spacious interior while accommodating a solid, strong look. The tall glasshouse and clean C-pillar create a light and airy environment that visually suggests the spacious interior ahead. And unseen forces, such as aerodynamic,s have been important too. The fully 3D sculpted underbody cover, optional digital side mirrors and aerodynamic wheels combine to help the 99.8 kWh battery trim slice through the air, a crucial part of squeezing every possible kilometre out of the electric car. Everything on the outside of the EV9 seems purposeful and unified. Vertical headlamps and taillamps echo one another’s design, bringing a sense of front-to-rear visual harmony. The flush automatic door handles pop out when you need to use them and then disappear when the car is in motion, furthering the clean look and aerodynamic efficiency. This is a design very much not in the spirit of ‘throw everything at the wall and see what sticks’; it’s a considered – and intelligently conceived – approach to marrying form with function that arguably identifies what a great big electric SUV should look like going forward.
Exterior Features
| Details | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Available Colours | Ocean Blue (Matte or Gloss), Ivory Silver, Flare Red, Pebble Grey, Iceberg Green, Aurora Black Pearl, Snow White Pearl |
| Lighting Signature | Digital Pattern Lighting Grille with animated sequences; vertical slim-line LED headlamps and “Star Map” LED daytime running lights (DRLs). |
| Aerodynamics | Active air flaps, 3D-sculpted underbody, aerodynamic wheels, and optional Digital Side Mirrors to achieve a drag coefficient of 0.28 Cd. |
| Body Detailing | Automatic flush door handles, muscular geometric wheel arches, clean body surfacing, and a distinctive polygonal design language. |
Key Highlights
- Commanding Presence: The bold, angular polygonal design and Digital Tiger Face provide an unmistakable futuristic road-going presence.
- Aerodynamic Efficiency: The vehicle benefits from some clever design work, such as flush door handles and a streamlined underbody, which extends the range electrically.
- Intelligent Lighting: The “Digital Pattern Lighting” animation delivers a unique welcome and emphasises the high-tech image of the EV9.
- Spacious Architecture: The E-GMP platform allows for a long wheelbase, which translates to a powerful stance and an exceptionally spacious interior cabin.
Understanding the EV9 Model Lineup
Kia has simplified yet made the EV9 lineup in the UK enticing with a high level of standard equipment throughout. The 99.8 kWh battery pack is at the heart of the long-range appeal, and buyers have a choice of the rear-wheel-drive ‘Air’ model and the all-wheel-drive ‘GT-Line’ version. The ‘Air’ trim, which acts as the base trim, is definitely far from basic. It is intended for individuals who make maximum range and comfort their top priorities. Its single-motor RWD configuration is geared for efficiency, and it’s packed with so many features that would be options (and often expensive ones) on many competitors. These include the triple panoramic display, heated and ventilated front seats, and a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance features.
For all-weather driving and a sportier style, the “GT-Line” package is the ultimate pick. This variant adds a second electric motor to the front axle, turning it into a formidable all-wheel-drive system that dramatically enhances performance. The GT-Line features a more aggressive front and rear bumper, unique 21-inch alloy wheels and a darker theme to the exterior. Inside, it has the likes of a premium Meridian sound system, front relaxed seats with massages, and Highway Driving Pilot, the next-level driving assistant. Although its range is slightly less than that of the ‘Air’ due to the added weight and power, the GT-Line presents a more engaging driving experience and a more dominant visual identity. What you get with either trim is a really powerful value proposition. The ‘Air’ version provides a genuine high-end long-range seven-seat EV experience for a price that beats many less usable competitors. The ‘GT-Line’ adds to this with more performance and luxury equipment, making it a true flagship model that can go head-to-head with premium German marques. There are precious few options, as Kia has opted to give customers more features with each trim, streamlining the purchasing process and solidifying the message that luxury and technology are standard, not aspirational add-ons.
Trim Comparison
| Trim / Variant | Drivetrain | Key Features | Price (Starting From) | Value Proposition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ‘Air’ | RWD | 19-inch alloy wheels, Triple Panoramic Display, Heated/Ventilated Seats (1st & 2nd row), 7-seat configuration, Vegan Leather, Full ADAS Suite. | ~£65,000 | The ultimate choice for maximum range and practicality. Offers immense space and luxury features as standard. |
| ‘GT-Line’ | AWD | 21-inch alloy wheels, GT-Line Styling, Dual-Motor Performance, Meridian Audio, Relaxation Seats, Highway Driving Pilot, Sunroof, and Digital Mirrors. | ~£76,000 | The performance-oriented flagship. Delivers a sportier look, faster acceleration, and the highest level of technology. |
Key Highlights
- Well-Equipped “Air” Trim: The base trim is a complete premium offering with plenty of comfort and tech features, giving good value.
- Performance-Driven “GT-Line”: Features a sportier design, all-wheel-drive traction, and flagship features for an enhanced dynamic and luxurious driving experience.
- Simplified Choices: The buying process is simple, as most features are standard, and the main decision is essentially one between maximum range or all-wheel-drive performance.
- Strong Competitive Positioning: Each trim delivers a strong combination of space, technology, and range that puts them in competition with pricier players in the premium EV market.
EV9 99.8 kWh RWD Spec Sheet Appendix
The manufacturer specifications table below summarises all the key information available for the Kia EV9 99.8 kWh RWD (‘Air’ trim). These numbers give us a good, clear-cut technical understanding of the vehicle. Remember that real-world range and performance may vary depending on driving style, weather conditions, choice of tyres and load.
| Specification | Kia EV9 99.8 kWh RWD (‘Air’) |
|---|---|
| Battery Capacity (Total) | 99.8 kWh |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) |
| Electric Motor | Single Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor |
| Max Power | 150 kW (200 bhp) |
| Max Torque | 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) |
| 0–62 mph (0-100 km/h) | 9.4 seconds |
| Top Speed | 115 mph (185 km/h) |
| WLTP Combined Range | Up to 349 miles (563 km) |
| Max DC Charging Power | ~210 kW |
| 10-80% DC Charge Time | Approx. 24 minutes (on a 350 kW ultra-fast charger) |
| AC Charging | 11 kW Type 2 |
| Length | 5,015 mm |
| Width (excl. mirrors) | 1,980 mm |
| Height | 1,755 mm |
| Wheelbase | 3,100 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 2,501 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 7 seats |
| Boot Space (3 rows up) | 333 litres |
| Boot Space (2 rows up) | 828 litres |
| Front Trunk (Frunk) | 90 litres |
| Towing Capacity (Braked) | 955 kg |
Refined Power: EV9 Performance & Driving Experience
The Kia EV9 99.8 kWh RWD focuses on comfort, efficiency, and tranquil progress right from the outset. It is driven by a single electric motor, mounted on the rear axle, which delivers 150 kW (200 bhp) and 350 Nm of torque. Although the 0-62 mph time of 9.4 seconds might not seem very exciting on paper, it’s a number that doesn’t tell the whole story about what it’s like to drive the car. Thanks to instant torque delivery that comes with electric vehicles, the EV9 gets up and goes with a silky-smooth, aggressive, almost-silent jolt. It’s more than good enough for bringing on to motorways and to hold your own in rush-hour traffic.
The power is sent to the rear wheels through a single-speed transmission, allowing for a smooth and linear acceleration wave without any abruptions or shifting gears. This really helps to make for a serene and sophisticated drive. The speed is electronically controlled to 115 mph, which is more than enough for any legal road in the world. What makes this powertrain so special isn’t how fast it is, but how effortlessly and quietly it feels. It turns a daily commute from a hassle to a spa-like experience, shielding riders from the noise and rumble of the outdoors. The long-range 99.8 kWh battery is the highlight, delivering power for a rather official WLTP range of up to 349 miles. This impressive range cuts range anxiety and allows the EV9 to be a true long-distance cruiser, taking the whole family on vacation or driving long days for work with very little planning required around charging stops. The powertrain and battery are perfectly tuned to create a vehicle that delivers a real-world, friendly and passenger-comfortable driving experience, making the EV9 a true grand tourer for the electric age.
Key Highlights
- Effortless Acceleration: The electric motor’s instant torque offers smooth and responsive performance in daily driving.
- Serene and Silent Operation: The single-speed transmission and quiet motor combine to create a remarkably calm and serene cabin environment.
- Exceptional Long-Range Capability: The 99.8 kWh battery offers an official range of up to 349 miles to make your long trip feasible and worry-free.
- Comfort-Oriented Engineering: The whole powertrain is adjusted with the emphasis on a refined, comfortable, and efficient driving experience rather than outright performance figures.
Powertrain & Acceleration Dynamics
Driving the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) Kia EV9 99.8 kWh is pure relaxation in comfort and vehicle control. But what you take away from the experience is calm, confidence and grace. The steering is light, yet precise, and this large vehicle moves surprisingly easily through tight city streets and parking lots. It doesn’t quite provide the granularity of feedback of a sports car, but it is perfectly weighted for its mission as a family cruiser, instilling confidence on winding country roads and stability on the highway. The EV9 offers an exceptional ride quality with a suspension configuration that has been cleverly engineered to absorb bumps and road imperfections. Even riding on the 19-inch standard wheels of the ‘Air’ version, the car rides over cracked asphalt, hiding all the cruelty from the cabin and delivering a calm voyage for all travellers.
This refined ride comfort is a direct result of the purpose-built E-GMP platform. The long wheelbase and low centre of gravity, made possible by positioning the heavy battery pack beneath the floor, evoke a sense of great stability. The car feels well planted and stable with little body roll for a vehicle this size and height, even in corners. Such stiffening ensures that all passengers, especially those in the second and third rows, enjoy a comfortable, nausea-free ride, a must for any family vehicle. The EV9 has three driving modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport, which provide the driver with a variety of vehicle dynamics options. Eco mode increases efficiency by making the throttle response less aggressive and lowering the power usage from the climate control system, maximising range. Normal mode strikes a good daily-driving compromise, and Sport mode makes the accelerator response quicker, lending a bit more urgency to the powertrain. The differences are readily apparent but subtle in the RWD model, expertly retaining the core character of refined and assured pace.
Key Highlights
- Superb Ride Quality: Suspension soaks up bumps with ease, allowing for a smooth and comfortable trip for all passengers.
- Stable, Secure Handling: The E-GMP platform’s low centre of gravity allows for confident handling without excessive body roll and makes the large SUV feel well-planted and secure.
- Adjustable Driving Modes: The driver has the choice between the Eco, Normal and Sport driving modes to focus on efficiency, balanced performance or more aggressive responsiveness according to personal taste.
- Light and Effortless Steering: The well-weighted steering allows the EV9 to be nimbly manipulated on tight city streets and in parking facilities.
A First Drive Impression of the EV9
My first driving experience with the EV9 99.8 kWh RWD took place on a route with both sweeping A-roads and tight village lanes, ideal for real-world junction testing. The dominant sensation is of profound quiet and smoothness in every respect. Getting underway, you immediately notice the lack of the usual pillar of engine noise or vibrations, replaced by a fluffy, imperceptible acceleration: the effervescent, imperceptible flow of forward momentum. The large glass area and high-riding driving position offer outstanding visibility, helping you feel like you’re in full control despite the towering size of the vehicle. The feeling of space and light in the car is huge, adding character to the rather impersonal interior reminiscent of a moving lounge rather than a standard car.
When we hit faster-flowing roads, the EV9’s stability shines through. It flies along at 70 mph with the quietness of a library, because the wind and the tyre on the road noise have been hushed very well. Overtaking slower vehicles just takes a light press on the accelerator, as the electric motor has sufficient instant torque to allow it to safely and swiftly get past. It’s not the drama, the roaring engine noise; it’s just smooth and rapid acceleration. It’s a dignified, peaceful way to get around, and it helps ease the strain on your hands during long drives. The car appears completely unconcerned, as it sits at ease, gently providing a consistently comfortable ride. Not once did the EV9 feel scary, even on the torturous streets of a medieval town. The light steering feel, together with the very complete 360° camera pack, makes parking the car very easy. It contracts around you, feeling significantly smaller and more nimble than the actual size of your footprint would imply. This initial drive proved that Kia has been successful in building a product that is not just technologically advanced but also one that is a real joy to use day in and day out. It provides a premium driving experience that ensures the occupant’s health and comfort above all.
Key Highlights
- Supreme On-Road Refinement: The EV9 provides the quietest, smoothest ride to date, protecting occupants from road and wind noise for an authentic high-grade experience.
- Easy Cruising Ability: Instant torque and a solid chassis make highway driving and passing seem effortless and secure.
- Confident Visibility: A high driving seat with large windows gives you an excellent view of the road ahead.
- Surprising Manoeuvrability: Although it’s big, the EV9’s light steering and superb camera system make it easy to manoeuvre even in tight spaces.
The Daily Commute: Mastering Urban Life
Among stop-and-go traffic on a daily commute, the Kia EV9 99.8 kWh RWD is in its element. Rush-hour traffic, a frequent source of anxiety, is a much calmer ride. Driving with one pedal, thanks to the ‘i-Pedal’ system of Kia, is revolutionary. You can modify the rate of regenerative braking so that when braking with the throttle, you actually reach a full stop by using the paddles on the steering wheel. This has the effect of not just decreasing the physical work of repeatedly moving your foot back and forth between the two pedals, but also of maximising the amount of energy you can recuperate by applying brakes, which in turn feeds power back into the battery and increases your efficiency, particularly on city roads. For those who are new to EVs, the system is very easy to understand, as you can gradually learn how to use one-pedal driving with several levels of regeneration.
The feeling-so-composed suspension comes into its own on rough city streets. It flawlessly knifes through the tantrums of potholes, sleeping policemen, and erratic roadways without shaking up the tranquillity of the cabin. While different cars may feel a bit rattly or skittish, the EV9 maintains a steady, calm character, bobbing along imperfections with a refined damping that is testament to it being a luxury vehicle. This is a really excellent ride quality for people who have to drive on the crumbling roads that are common in many cities, and that is especially true for second-row passengers and even those in the third row. In addition, its suite of driver aids also makes it easier and safer to drive in traffic. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist can also help to avoid rear-end collisions at low speeds, and Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist adds an additional layer of protection when changing lanes on busy roads. The silent, particulate-free low-speed operation also helps make the city a nicer place, inside and out of the vehicle. The EV9 turns the daily commuter slog into a calm, cosy, and capable trip.
Key Highlights
- Simple, Intuitive Single Pedal Driving: With a single pedal, you can control acceleration and deceleration, which makes stop-and-go traffic less stressful and increases energy regeneration, contributing to a more efficient and relaxing drive in city streets.
- Exceptional Urban Ride Comfort: The advanced suspension system isolates the cabin from potholes and other uneven surfaces to deliver a pleasurable, jumping-free ride.
- Traffic Flow Navigation Without Stress: Silent operation, smooth power delivery, and the utilisation of advanced driver aids reduce the stress and fatigue of driving in stop-and-go traffic.
- Enhanced Safety in Congested Areas: The Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist can come to the rescue when you’re weaving your way through multi-lane roads in urban areas.
A Sanctuary of Space and Tech: Interior and Comfort
When you step into the Kia EV9, you’ve adopted a friendly human companion in a minimalist, contemporary home. The cabin is nicely streamlined and airy, thanks to the E-GMP platform’s long wheelbase and flat floor. A charming floating panoramic screen crowns the dashboard, hiding the 12.3-inch instrument cluster, a 5.3-inch climate control display and a 12.3-inch central infotainment touchscreen under a single glass slab. The result is a cleaner dash, but you still get physical buttons for essential functions such as volume and climate, and it’s a good mix of geeky looks and practical usability.
The commitment to sustainability is evident. Instead of traditional leather, the EV9 is equipped with premium vegan leather alternatives and recycled plastics, while plant-based materials like corn and sugarcane are incorporated in other elements. It’s not a trade-off when you choose these; they have a high-quality feel, and they complement the cabin’s calm and environmentally friendly vibe. Comfort is key, and it’s not just the seats in the front anyway, which are adjustable, heated and ventilated.
Second-row passengers have plenty of space to sit back and relax, and in the ‘Air’ trim, these seats are heated and cooled. Actually, even the third row is genuinely usable for adults on shorter journeys, which might be the only option in this class.
Clever storage is in plentiful supply and well thought out. A big, open-plan centre console offers versatile storage, along with deep door bins and a sizeable glovebox. There is no transmission tunnel, giving a sense of space and extra foot room for the passengers. Connectivity is effortless, with multiple USB-C ports across three rows, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. The serene interior of the EV9 is a symphony of forward-thinking design, technology, sustainable luxury and unrivalled practicality, making it a place where everyone in the family can feel at home.
Interior Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Upgrades & Comfort | Heated & ventilated seats (1st & 2nd rows), 7-seat configuration, ambient lighting, power-adjustable front seats, second-row reclining seats. |
| Tech & Connectivity | Triple panoramic display (2x 12.3″, 1x 5.3″), wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless phone charger, multiple USB-C ports across all three rows, Kia Connect services. |
| Digital Features | Over-the-air (OTA) software updates, Fingerprint recognition for driver profiles, and Digital Key 2.0 (using a smartphone). |
| Materials & Finishes | Sustainable vegan leather, recycled PET fabrics, bio-paint, and interior trim derived from recycled plastic bottles and plant-based materials. |
| Storage | Large floating centre console, 90L front trunk (frunk), 333L boot space (all seats up), 828L boot space (third row folded). |
Key Highlights
- Expansive Triple-Screen Display: The huge, easy-to-use screen lets you get to everything in the vehicle quickly, and it adds to a futuristic, high-tech feel.
- Genuine Three-Row Seating: Having enough room for up to seven passengers to ride in comfort does make it a genuinely workable family automobile.
- Materials of Sustainable Luxury: The premium feel of superior vegan leather and recycled materials is in harmony with the eco-friendly ethos.
- Smart and Bountiful Storage: Practical storage options such as a sizeable frunk and a flexible centre console make life a little easier daily.
Personalised Tech for an Enhanced Drive
The Kia EV9’s tech isn’t just window dressing; it is tightly woven into the fabric of the driving experience to bring personalised and practical benefits. Driving modes (Eco, Normal, Sport, My Drive) do more than just modify throttle response. They also change the weight of the steering and, in GT-Line models, the AWD power distribution. The ‘My Drive’ mode enables the driver to build a bespoke setting, combining these characteristics according to individual tastes. This degree of customisation means that the vehicle can be set up for a laid-back slog, a fuel-efficient long-haul cruise, or a more lively drive on a twisty road.
A highlight is the smart regenerative braking. Controlled by paddles on the steering wheel, it has several levels of strength, including a “coasting” mode that resembles a conventional automatic car, and a powerful “i-Pedal” mode that allows for one-pedal driving. A special ‘Auto’ mode utilises the front radar to adapt the regeneration level in an intelligent manner to traffic conditions ahead by slowing down the car smoothly as you approach a vehicle in front. It’s a great technology for improving efficiency without having to constantly manage it, and it leads to a smoother, more intuitive driving experience, especially in stop-and-go traffic.
The EV9 also introduces unprecedented levels of digital integration. Through the Kia Connect Store, customers will be able to purchase new features and services as over-the-air (OTA) updates even after the vehicle has left the dealership. This can be anything from new lighting sequences for the Digital Grille or new software-based performance upgrades. Other features include Digital Key 2.0 to use your phone or smartwatch as a key and fingerprint recognition to load your personal driver profile instantly, including your seat, mirrors, and infotainment preferences. This innovation turns the EV9 from a fixed product to a dynamic platform, evolving to the needs of its owner over time.
Key Highlights
- Adjustable Driving Modes: ‘My Drive’ mode enables a personalised setup to be created for steering feel and powertrain response.
- Smart Regeneration Braking: The ‘Auto’ mode employs radar to modulate braking force, increasing efficiency and making traffic a little less stressful.
- Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates: New features can be added and software upgraded remotely, so the car can be kept up to date and improved over the air throughout its life.
- Seamless Personalisation: Fingerprint and Digital Key 2.0 help you access and personalise your driving settings easily and securely.
A Fortress of Safety and Reliability
Family cars should be safe above all, and Kia has made the EV9 a safe space on wheels. It is underpinned by a highly rigid body structure, reinforced by the natural rigidity of the E-GMP platform and high levels of advanced high-strength steel. The strong occupant cell is engineered to absorb and disperse impact energy, maximising the safety of all occupants. A full complement of airbags, including a front-centre airbag that helps to prevent front seat occupants from striking each other in a side impact, underlines a detailed focus on occupant safety.
The EV9 comes standard with Kia’s newest suite of DriveWise ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems). This isn’t just a rudimentary package; it’s a complete suite of technologies that can help prevent accidents. One of the more important ones is Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2), which reacts to the car in front, keeps the vehicle centred in your lane, and can also help with lane changes. Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA) and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA) offer vital support in blind spot situations, actively engaging the brakes upon detecting an impact threat. These two systems operate flawlessly behind the scenes, giving you a non-invasive sense of security for the vehicle you are driving.
This dedication to safety has been acknowledged by third parties, with the EV9 receiving a maximum five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP. It performed well in all areas, including adult occupant and child occupant, as well as safety assist systems. As a reviewer, both of these things feel rock solid and well dialled in. The lane-keeping assist is quietly effective, and the adaptive cruise control applies the gas and brake quite smoothly. It instils confidence to let the mind wander a bit more on distance travels, well knowing that the car is always scanning the surroundings. The EV9 isn’t just made to feel secure; it’s verifiably among the safest vehicles you can get today.
Key Highlights
- Five-Star Euro NCAP Rating: The highest safety rating was attained, which confirms its outstanding crash protection and safety equipment from a third-party perspective.
- Comprehensive Standard ADAS Suite: With features such as Highway Driving Assist 2 and Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist included in every trim, preventing potential crashes.
- Robust Body Structure: Ultra-high-tensile steel and a stiff EV platform deliver a high-strength passenger safety cage.
- Advanced Airbag System: In addition to a full complement of traditional airbags, the system includes a front-centre airbag that provides additional protection during side-impact crashes.
The EV9 Against Its Rivals
The Kia EV9 debuts in an expanding but still nascent segment for big, three-row electric SUVs. Space, style, and tech: it’s an unusual mix that makes for a different competitive set. Its main competitors are the already well-established Volvo EX90 and the luxury marque Mercedes-Benz EQB. Each of these cars is a different type of offer for those thinking of buying one.
| Feature | Kia EV9 99.8 kWh RWD (‘Air’) | Volvo EX90 Twin Motor | Mercedes-Benz EQB 350 4MATIC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | ~£65,000 | ~£96,000 | ~£56,000 |
| Drivetrain | RWD | AWD | AWD |
| Range (WLTP) | Up to 349 miles | Up to 364 miles | Up to 253 miles |
| 0-62 mph | 9.4s | 5.9s | 6.2s |
| Charging Speed | ~210 kW | ~250 kW | ~100 kW |
| Key Strengths | Striking design, 800V charging, spacious cabin, value for money | Unparalleled safety focus, luxurious interior, brand prestige | Premium badge, compact size |
| Best For | Families seeking maximum space, bold style, and fast charging technology at a competitive price. | Buyers prioritising ultimate safety, Scandinavian luxury, and willing to pay a premium for it. | Those needing occasional seven-seat use in a more compact, city-friendly, premium-badged package. |
The Volvo EX90 is the EV9’s closest philosophical rival, if nothing else, because both are deeply safety-oriented and have seven-seat practicality. It has a slightly longer range and a more potent standard AWD powertrain. But that is an order of magnitude more expensive. The elegant Scandinavian minimalism and luxury of the EX90’s interior will please many, while the EV9 dares to be bolder and more futuristic inside and out, and sports faster 800V charging technology. The EV9 ‘Air’ supplies a similar amount of space and utility for a whole lot less money, besting it as the value proposition.
The Mercedes-Benz EQB brings the prestige of a premium badge to a smaller, more affordable package. However, like its seven-seat sibling, the third row is only really suitable for small children, and you get significantly less interior space than what is on offer in the EV9. The EQB’s much shorter range, combined with its significantly slower DC charging speed, also makes it a less appealing option for families who typically travel long distances. The EQB is a great option if you’re an urban-based buyer that just needs a premium EV with some flexibility on the side, but when it comes to true haulier duties, the EV9’s more space, range and charging speed make it the far more capable machine. In this battle, the Kia EV9 99.8 kWh RWD takes an interesting position. It has the space and practicality of the hugely expensive Volvo EX90, but it has way more range than the Mercedes EQB, and it charges much faster. Its combination of unique design, state-of-the-art technology and exceptional value for money makes it probably the best all-round large electric family SUV you can buy today.
Why the Kia EV9 is a Top Contender
The Kia EV9 99.8 kWh RWD breaks through the noise with an all-electric family-size vehicle, where it is a no-compromise, purpose-built design. Its greatest strength is that it’s learning the basics. It has a truly roomy, three-row interior that can hold a big family and all of their luggage, something few other EVs can say. This utility is coupled with a remarkably long-range battery, capable of providing up to 349 miles on a single charge. And they’re not just any numbers; they are the numbers that will lead to a new kind of freedom, one that will banish range anxiety and make long-distance vacation travel a real, albeit stress-free, possibility.
The EV9 is the ideal vehicle for the demands of daily modern life. It’s a peaceful ride, a silent powertrain and easy-to-use one-pedal driving mode change the daily grind of getting stuck in traffic to a zen-like activity: daily driving. For the weekly shop or the school run, the enormous boot, easy access third row and hard-wearing, sustainable interior materials help make it an absolute practical powerhouse. And for those long-distance trips to visit relatives or see the country, its epic range, rock-solid high-speed stability and ultra-quick 800V charging ability, which charges for more than 150 miles in just 15 minutes, make it a consummate grand tourer. It moulds itself wonderfully to every aspect of a family’s lifestyle.
This car is also a signpost for Kia’s market position. By releasing a flagship EV that performs particularly well in the red-hot large SUV space, Kia is signalling very big ambitions. The EV9 is intended to compete with established premium marques not just on price but also product design, technology and quality. It raises the entire Kia brand, showing that the company can deliver time after time at a level of technology, engineering, and innovation that puts it in the vanguard, not as a follower in the move to electric mobility. When you opt for the EV9, you’re not just buying a vehicle; you’re buying into a vision of the future of family conveyance, a vision that’s roomy, sustainable, and tech-forward.
Key Highlights
- Unmatched Interior Space and Practicality: It offers one of the most spacious and flexible seven-seat cabins in the entire EV market, making it the ideal choice for large families.
- Exceptional Real-World Range: The 99.8 kWh battery provides up to 349 miles of range, giving it the legs for long-distance travel without constant charging stops.
- Groundbreaking 800V Charging Speed: Its ability to charge at ultra-fast speeds drastically reduces downtime on long journeys, a significant advantage over most competitors.
- Bold and Distinctive Design: The EV9’s futuristic and confident styling stands out from the crowd, offering a unique aesthetic that defies conventional SUV design.
- Outstanding Value Proposition: It packages flagship-level technology, space, and range at a price point that significantly undercuts its primary premium-badged rivals.
The Verdict: Is the EV9 the New Family Benchmark?
After extensive real-world testing, the verdict is in: The Kia EV9 99.8 kWh RWD is not only a great electric car; it is also an amazing family car. It’s a roaring success in its goal of delivering spacious, comfortable, long-range electric mobility for up to seven people. It is able to perfectly combine a futuristic design with the practicality you need day by day, and with so many standard features, it is really one of the best values for money you will find. For any family toying with making the leap to electric without sacrificing space or functionality, the EV9 belongs at the top of the list.
And this car isn’t just good for its strengths on paper: It’s a very good family car, too. The ‘Air’ RWD version in particular will appeal to the majority of families, as it delivers the best balance of efficiency and range while still feeling luxurious and technologically advanced. It ticks all the boxes for those who want a practical vehicle to take on the school run, the weekly shop and the family holiday every year. The EV9 isn’t just a new challenger: it redefines what a family EV can and should be.
Take the Next Step
Book your test drive today at The.Car and see how this award-winning SUV fits your life perfectly. Head to your nearest Kia dealer now!
