The automotive world was stunned when Kia introduced the Telluride in 2020, with its exceptional design, comfort, and family-friendly third-row seating. Now, Kia has done it again, but this time, it’s all-electric. The 2025 Kia EV9, a three-row electric SUV, offers an impressive blend of affordability, features, and performance. With bold styling, practical range, fast charging, and advanced technology, the EV9 is proving to be a worthy successor to the Telluride and a game-changer in the electric SUV market.
New Update
For 2025, the 2025 Kia EV9 largely carries over from its debut model, with a few noteworthy changes. The Light Long Range model now comes standard with a sunroof, and the exterior color options have been refreshed, swapping out some of the 2024 colors for Glacial White Pearl and Ebony Black. While the current lineup remains largely the same, there’s an exciting rumor that a high-performance GT trim might join the lineup in 2025, which could deliver up to 576 horsepower.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The 2025 Kia EV9 comes with a price tag starting around $56,225 and climbing up to $80,000, depending on the trim and options. The mid-range Wind trim is considered the sweet spot for buyers looking for both value and performance. This model comes with all-wheel drive, delivering 379 horsepower, and is packed with desirable features such as:
- Second-row captain’s chairs
- Heated front seats and steering wheel
- Heat pump for climate control
- A range of advanced driver-assistance systems
For those looking for the perfect balance between power, features, and affordability, the Wind trim offers the best value in the EV9 lineup.
EV Motor, Power, and Performance
The 2025 Kia EV9 lineup offers a variety of powertrain configurations to suit different driving preferences:
- The base Light trim features rear-wheel drive with a single motor producing 215 horsepower.
- The Light Long Range model also uses rear-wheel drive, but with a larger battery, its power drops slightly to 201 horsepower.
- For those who want more power, the all-wheel-drive models deliver a combined 379 horsepower through a dual-motor setup. The Boost mode in these models further increases torque for quicker acceleration.
- If performance is a top priority, the rumored GT model could potentially offer an impressive 576 horsepower, giving it the kind of power typically associated with high-end electric SUVs.
In terms of real-world performance, the 2025 Kia EV9 doesn’t disappoint. During testing, the all-wheel-drive model hit 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, a significant improvement over the gas-powered Telluride, which takes 6.5 seconds to reach the same speed.
Range, Charging, and Battery Life
Range is a critical factor when choosing an electric vehicle, and the Kia EV9 offers a range of battery options to meet different needs:
- The entry-level Light model comes with a 76.1-kWh battery pack, offering an EPA-estimated range of 230 miles.
- The Light Long Range and all-wheel-drive versions feature a larger 99.8-kWh battery. The Light Long Range model is rated for 304 miles per charge, while the all-wheel-drive Wind and Land trims are rated for 280 miles.
- The top-tier GT-Line trim has a slightly reduced range of 270 miles due to its performance enhancements.
In real-world testing, the GT-Line trim managed to drive 240 miles on the highway, just shy of its EPA estimate. Thanks to Kia’s 800-volt electrical architecture, the EV9 supports DC fast-charging, adding 100 miles of range in just 13 minutes at its maximum charging speed of 230 kW. This fast-charging capability places it among the top electric vehicles in terms of charging efficiency.
Key Specs of 2025 Kia EV9 Models
| Model | Power (HP) | Range (miles) | 0-60 MPH (seconds) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Light | 215 | 230 | N/A | Starting at $56,225 |
| Light Long Range | 201 | 304 | N/A | TBD |
| Wind (AWD) | 379 | 280 | 4.5 | TBD |
| GT-Line (AWD) | 379 | 270 | 4.5 | TBD |
| GT (Rumored) | 576 | TBD | Estimated < 4.0 | TBD |
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe
In terms of fuel economy, the EPA estimates the Kia EV9 to achieve between 80 to 89 MPGe, depending on the drivetrain configuration. The Light Long Range model with rear-wheel drive is the most efficient, boasting 89 MPGe, while the performance-focused GT-Line with all-wheel drive achieves the lowest at 80 MPGe. Despite this, the EV9’s efficiency compares favorably with other electric SUVs in its class.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo Space
The interior of the 2025 Kia EV9 is as impressive as its performance. Depending on the trim level, the EV9 is available in either six- or seven-passenger configurations, with the option of second-row captain’s chairs or a traditional bench seat. In higher trims, the third-row seats are power-folding for added convenience.
The EV9’s cabin quality stands out, featuring soft synthetic leather upholstery and unique mesh headrests. The overall construction feels solid and premium, providing a luxurious experience for both drivers and passengers.
- The second-row captain’s chairs offer heating, ventilation, and even massaging functions, providing maximum comfort on long drives.
- The third row is spacious enough for adults, although legroom may require some adjustment from those seated in the second row.
When it comes to cargo space, the 2025 Kia EV9 holds up well compared to its gas-powered sibling, the Telluride. Behind the third row, there are 20 cubic feet of storage space, and with the second and third rows folded flat, this expands to 82 cubic feet. In testing, the EV9 easily fit five carry-on bags behind the third row and 17 bags with the third row folded down.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Technology is a highlight of the EV9’s interior. The SUV features dual 12.3-inch screens—one for the gauge cluster and the other for infotainment. Between the two screens, there’s a dedicated HVAC readout, and although physical knobs are limited, there’s still a volume knob and some essential HVAC controls.
- The infotainment system is quick and responsive, with attractive graphics and an intuitive menu layout.
- However, the placement of the on-screen climate controls behind the steering wheel can be distracting, although this isn’t a dealbreaker for most users.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The Kia EV9 comes equipped with a suite of standard driver-assistance features, including:
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Automated emergency braking
For those opting for the GT-Line trim, Kia offers an advanced hands-free driving mode, paired with an upgraded version of adaptive cruise control. This feature makes long highway drives more comfortable and reduces driver fatigue.
Recalls and Issues
While the Kia EV9 has garnered positive reviews, it has also experienced a couple of recalls since its introduction. One issue involves a software glitch that can cause the digital gauge cluster to fail, while another affects the optional remote parking system. Kia has been proactive in addressing these issues, and they’re not expected to impact the vehicle’s overall performance or reliability.
2025 Kia EV9 Specs
| Model/Trim | Power (HP) | Battery Size (kWh) | Range (miles) | 0-60 MPH (seconds) | Drive Type | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Light | 215 | 76.1 | 230 | N/A | Rear-Wheel Drive | Starting at $56,225 |
| Light Long Range | 201 | 99.8 | 304 | N/A | Rear-Wheel Drive | TBD |
| Wind (AWD) | 379 | 99.8 | 280 | 4.5 | All-Wheel Drive | TBD |
| Land (AWD) | 379 | 99.8 | 280 | 4.5 | All-Wheel Drive | TBD |
| GT-Line (AWD) | 379 | 99.8 | 270 | 4.5 | All-Wheel Drive | TBD |
| GT (Rumored) | 576 | TBD | TBD | Estimated < 4.0 | All-Wheel Drive | TBD |
Additional Key Specs:
- Charging Speed: 230 kW DC Fast-Charging (adds 100 miles of range in ~13 minutes)
- Max Cargo Space: 82 cubic feet with second and third rows folded
- MPGe (Efficiency): 80-89 MPGe depending on trim and drivetrain
- Seats: 6 or 7 passengers, depending on the configuration
- Standard Safety Features: Blind-spot monitoring, automated emergency braking, and advanced driver-assistance features (varies by trim)
This table highlights the core features of the 2025 Kia EV9, helping you compare trims and select the model that suits your needs.
A New Era of Electric SUVs
The 2025 Kia EV9 represents a significant step forward for electric SUVs. With its blend of affordability, performance, and advanced features, it’s a compelling option for families looking to make the switch to electric. Whether you’re interested in the base model for its value, the mid-range trims for their features, or the rumored GT model for its high-performance thrills, the EV9 has something for everyone.
If you’re in the market for a three-row electric SUV, the Kia EV9 should be at the top of your list. Its thoughtful design, impressive range, and family-friendly features make it a standout in the growing field of electric vehicles.
PEOPLE WHO READ THIS, ALSO READ
