Key Takeaways
- The EV9 is the first affordable three-row electric SUV, with legitimate family-hauling capability and Kia's bold design language
- Powertrain: Dual electric motors, 379 hp, 304 miles range, achieving 101 MPGe mpg
- Starting MSRP around $56,000 — positioned against the Tesla Model X, Rivian R1S, Hyundai Ioniq 9
- New for 2025: GT-Line performance variant, improved software, over-the-air update capability
- Our pick: Land AWD Long Range for the most usable three-row electric SUV
Overview
The EV9 is the first affordable three-row electric SUV, with legitimate family-hauling capability and Kia's bold design language. The EV9 enters 2025 with meaningful updates: gt-line performance variant, improved software, over-the-air update capability. In a electric three-row SUV segment that's never been more competitive, the Kia EV9 distinguishes itself through a specific combination of qualities that its competitors can't quite replicate.
Starting around $56,000, the EV9 competes directly against the Tesla Model X, Rivian R1S, Hyundai Ioniq 9. Each of those competitors brings genuine strengths to the table, but the EV9 carves out its own niche by delivering The EV9 is the first affordable three-row electric SUV. Whether that resonates with you depends on what you prioritize in a electric three-row SUV.
What's New for 2025
GT-Line performance variant, improved software, over-the-air update capability. These aren't just checkbox updates — Kia has addressed real owner feedback and competitive gaps with these changes. The result is a EV9 that feels more complete and contemporary than the outgoing model in ways you'll notice daily.
Powertrain and Driving Experience
Under the hood, the EV9 runs Dual electric motors, 379 hp, 304 miles range. In practice, this powertrain delivers smooth, predictable power for daily driving with enough reserve for confident highway merging and mountain passes. The transmission calibration prioritizes smoothness over sportiness in normal driving, saving the sharper responses for when you request them.
Fuel economy lands at 101 MPGe — competitive for the electric three-row SUV segment and achievable in real-world driving without hypermiling techniques. On a mixed highway/city commute, expect numbers close to the EPA estimate, which is more than some competitors can claim.
The chassis tuning strikes a balance between comfort and control. Road imperfections are absorbed without harshness, while highway stability inspires confidence at speed. The steering is well-weighted with a natural on-center feel. Body roll is managed well through sweeping highway ramps and parking lot maneuvers. This isn't a sports car, but the EV9 never feels sloppy or disconnected.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Inside, the EV9 presents a cabin that reflects Kia's current design philosophy. Materials quality is appropriate for the $56,000 price point — you'll find soft-touch surfaces where your hands naturally rest, and the overall assembly quality suggests this cabin will hold up well over years of daily use. The driver's seat offers good support for commutes and road trips, with enough adjustability to accommodate a wide range of body types.
The infotainment system centers on a touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Response times are acceptable, menu structures are logical, and the most-used functions are accessible within one or two taps. A physical volume knob is present — a small detail that matters more than you'd think in daily driving.
Rear-seat space is competitive for the electric three-row SUV segment. Two adults can ride comfortably on typical trips, and the rear doors open wide enough for easy child seat installation. Cargo space handles the daily demands of this vehicle's likely buyers — grocery runs, weekend gear, and occasional larger items with the rear seats folded.
Technology and Safety
Standard equipment includes Kia's latest driver-assistance suite: automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keeping assist with lane centering, adaptive cruise control that works in stop-and-go traffic, and automatic high beams. These systems work unobtrusively in daily driving, providing a genuine safety net without constant false alerts or aggressive interventions.
Available technology upgrades include a larger touchscreen, premium audio, wireless charging, a head-up display, and enhanced surround-view camera. Higher trims add features like ventilated seats, a panoramic roof, and additional USB charging ports for rear passengers. Over-the-air updates keep the software current without dealer visits.
Pricing, Trims, and Value
The EV9 lineup starts around $56,000 for the base trim, which comes well-equipped with the full safety suite, smartphone integration, and modern infotainment. Mid-range trims add comfort and convenience features that most buyers will want — heated seats, a power liftgate (on SUVs), and upgraded audio typically live in this range.
Against the Tesla Model X, Rivian R1S, Hyundai Ioniq 9, the EV9 holds its own on features per dollar. The key question isn't whether the EV9 is a good value — it is — but whether its specific blend of strengths aligns with your priorities.
Our recommendation: Land AWD Long Range for the most usable three-row electric SUV. This configuration hits the sweet spot of features, capability, and price, delivering the core EV9 experience without pushing into diminishing-returns territory at the top of the lineup.
How It Compares
The electric three-row SUV segment is stacked with strong competitors. Here's how the EV9 stacks up against its main rivals:
Against the Tesla Model X: the EV9 competes on driving dynamics and technology, while the Tesla Model X counters with its own set of strengths. Cross-shop both before deciding.
Against the Rivian R1S: different strengths play to different buyer priorities. Test drive both and see which cabin, driving feel, and feature set resonate with your daily needs.
Verdict
The 2025 Kia EV9 is a well-executed electric three-row SUV that earns its place on any buyer's short list. The EV9 is the first affordable three-row electric SUV, with legitimate family-hauling capability and Kia's bold design language. That's a specific, compelling argument that not every competitor can match.
Buy the EV9 if you value what Kia does best and want a electric three-row SUV that handles daily life with competence and character. The Land AWD Long Range trim delivers the core experience.
Look elsewhere if you prioritize maximum sportiness (cross-shop the Tesla Model X), the absolute lowest price in the segment, or a fundamentally different set of priorities than what the EV9 offers.