The price of electric vehicles is a huge sticking point with many consumers. At this time, the cost of batteries required to deliver the driving range that consumers demand is placing substantial upward pressure on prices. Automakers cannot afford to take a loss on every EV they sell, so the costs are passed on to the consumer.
Part of the cost equation is that Americans love their big SUVs, and with good reason. We like to be able to carry people and cargo, and maybe even tow a trailer. We also like the sense of safety provided by a larger vehicle. But those larger vehicles weigh more, and require more batteries when equipped with an electric motor.
The 2024 Kia EV9 is a case in point. This is a flagship model for Kia, and at its base trim, it costs $54,900, plus $1,495 in destination fees. We tested the top GT-Line AWD trim with extended range battery, which starts at $73,900, plus fees. The EV9 is almost exactly the same size and configuration as the popular gas-powered Kia Telluride SUV, which starts at $36,190, plus fees. For most families, that $20,000 price difference is a huge barrier to going electric.
That being said, the EV9 is a fantastic SUV. If you can afford it, you'll love the EV9's driving dynamics, comfort, and utility. It will tow up to 5,000 pounds, offers seating for 7 passengers, and you can find a model with up to 304 miles of range. The EV9 has received all kinds of awards including World Car of the Year, World Electric Vehicle, and the North American Utility Vehicle of the Year. Kia earned every one of those awards fairly.
The twin electric motors drive the front and rear wheels respectively, and produce up to 379 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. The EV9 offers plenty of perceived power and it's a joy to drive.
Inside you'll find available Lounge seating in the first and second rows – that includes power-adjustable leg rests, heating, and ventilation. The second row offers 42.8 inches of leg room, making the EV9 perfect for limo and town car use. Even the third row offers easy access and some amenities.
On the dash, there's an almost 30-inch short-wide pane of glass including both the driver information display and the 12.3-inch infotainment and control panel. The EV9 includes a 360-degree surround-view camera system, available parking assistance, available head-up display, and an available camera-based rear-view mirror. This SUV is a technology powerhouse.
The real selling point of the EV9 is on the road. It's as quiet as any luxury SUV, has plenty of power, and drives with that low center of gravity that makes EVs both stable and smooth. Safety and driver assistance technology is also present in abundance. Even the base trim comes with a blind spot monitor, parking distance warnings, lane keeping, adaptive cruise control, speed limit assistance, and GPS navigation. You get a lot for your money with this SUV.
The bottom line on the Kia EV9 is that if you can afford the price, this is a fantastic choice in all-electric SUVs, from one of the highest-rated quality manufacturers in the industry. One test drive at the local Kia dealer will make a believer out of you.
2024 Kia EV9 GT-Line AWD
Base price: $73,900
Price as tested: $78,430
Type: Midsize SUV
Engine: Dual electric motors (379 hp, 516 lbs-ft)
Transmission: Direct drive
EPA estimated range: 270 miles
Overall length: 197.2 inches
Curb weight: 7,099 pounds
Final assembly: Gwangmyeong, Korea
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