The Kia EV9 has made a monumental entry into the Australian market, representing the brand’s new flagship electric SUV. This three-row, seven-seater is a bold statement, combining a futuristic, boxy design with immense practicality and cutting-edge electric vehicle technology. It’s built on Kia’s advanced E-GMP platform, which gives it a technological edge and a strong foundation for its impressive capabilities.

For Australian buyers, the EV9 lineup offers a choice of three distinct variants, each designed to cater to different needs.

• The entry point is the Air, which is a rear-wheel-drive model equipped with a 76.1 kWh battery. This variant delivers 160 kW of power and 350 Nm of torque, providing a solid 443 km of WLTP driving range—more than enough for most families.
• Stepping up, the Earth and top-spec GT-Line variants are both dual-motor, all-wheel-drive powerhouses. They come with a larger 99.8 kWh battery and a substantial power boost to 283 kW and 700 Nm of torque. This translates to an exhilarating driving experience, with the GT-Line sprinting from 0-100 km/h in a rapid 5.3 seconds. The Earth model offers a WLTP range of 512 km, while the GT-Line, with its larger 21-inch wheels, achieves a range of 505 km.

A key feature of the EV9 is its 800V electrical architecture, which enables ultra-rapid DC fast-charging speeds of up to 350 kW. This means you can add 239 km of range in just 15 minutes, making long-distance travel much more convenient. The car also features Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, allowing you to use the car’s battery to power appliances.

What really sets the EV9 apart for Australian drivers is Kia’s commitment to localizing the car’s driving dynamics. The EV9 underwent a rigorous and extensive suspension and steering tuning program right here on Australian roads. This ensures that despite its size and weight, it delivers a comfortable, composed, and confident ride that is perfectly suited to our unique and often challenging road conditions.

For those who want even more performance, a flagship EV9 GT variant has been confirmed and is expected to arrive in late 2025. This model will likely push the performance envelope even further, making the EV9 a truly comprehensive and compelling package in the large electric SUV segment.