In 2020, Kia made quite an impact with its Telluride three-row SUV, receiving praise and awards for its design, spaciousness, and overall excellence. Now, four years later, Kia introduces its latest offering, the 2024 Kia EV9, combining the successful elements of the Telluride with the electric EV6. The question is, can lightning strike for a third time and is the EV9 ideal for Cambodia’s growing EV market?
We had the opportunity to test drive the all-new EV9 at the Hyundai/Kia proving grounds in the desert north of Los Angeles, and our answer is a confident “yes.”
The EV9 will be available in five trims: Light, Light Long Range, Wind, Land, and GT-Line. While pricing information has not been released, we can provide details on each trim level. The entry-level Light model features a 76.1-kWh battery pack powering a single motor on the rear axle. With an estimated range of 223 miles on a full charge, it delivers 215 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Although modest for a three-row vehicle, the Light model can still accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a respectable 7.7 seconds.
Stepping up to the Light Long Range trim, you’ll find a larger 99.8-kWh battery, providing a range of 300 miles. Power output is reduced to 201 horsepower, but torque remains the same. The acceleration time increases to 8.8 seconds for the 0-60 mph sprint. If range is a top priority, the Light Long Range trim is the one for you.
Moving on to the Wind trim, things get more serious. It includes a second motor for all-wheel drive, resulting in a combined power output of 379 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. The range is slightly reduced to 270 miles, but the acceleration time improves to a rapid 5.7 seconds. Opting for the larger 20-inch wheels decreases the range to 253 miles. Additionally, Kia offers a Boost “Feature on Demand” (FoD) that can be purchased through the infotainment system, increasing the torque to an impressive 516 pound-feet.
The Land trim shares the same power output specs as the Wind, with a range of 253 miles due to its standard 20-inch wheels. Finally, the top GT-Line trim boasts the highest torque at 516 pound-feet and 21-inch wheels. The estimated range is 243 miles, and it can reach 60 mph in just 5.0 seconds.
While the battery size and performance affect the range, efficiency also plays a role. The EV9’s mpg-equivalent rating varies across the trims, with the all-wheel-drive Wind model at just 79 mpg-e, the GT-Line at 71 mpg-e, and the Light trims reaching 86-87 mpg-e. Although less efficient than some competitors, the EV9 still delivers respectable numbers.
During our test drive of the top GT-Line trim, we were impressed by its acceleration and stability. The EV9 moves quickly, responding immediately when the pedal is pressed to the floor. Panic stops from 70 mph are stable and controlled, with a stopping distance of 128 feet. The EV9’s body roll is present but not excessive when navigating turns, and it maintains stability even when pushed harder. The front tires lose grip first, giving the driver ample time to react. Overall, the handling dynamics instill confidence and assurance.
We also had the opportunity to test the EV9 on a moderate off-road course. With 7.8 inches of ground clearance, it has some limitations, but its short overhangs help. While it may not handle tough terrain with extreme obstacles, it can handle steep climbs and dirt trails, Ideal for Cambodia’s Growing electric SUV market.
Despite its off-road capabilities, the EV9 maintains a comfortable ride. The suspension tuning strikes a balance between compliance and control, absorbing bumps in the road without feeling too soft.
Charging the EV9 is a breeze, thanks to its impressive charging stats. With a larger battery, the EV9 can charge at a rate of 215 kW on a DC fast charger, taking only 24 minutes to reach 10-80% charge. The smaller battery can achieve the same charge in four minutes less. Charging with an 11-kW Level 2 home charger or similar public charger takes approximately nine hours for a full charge, or under seven hours for the smaller battery.
Inside the EV9, Kia prioritizes comfort and technology. The seats are upholstered in synthetic leather, providing ample cushioning and support. The second-row captains’ chairs are also comfortable, although they lack the swivel function found in other markets. Optional heating, ventilation, and massage functions are available for the second row. With seating for seven in certain trims, the third row offers sufficient headroom for adults.
Cargo space is generous, with 21 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 81.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. While slightly less than the Telluride, the EV9 still provides ample storage capacity.
Technology is a key focus for Kia, as seen in the EV9’s wide glass enclosure housing two 12.3-inch displays. One serves as the instrument panel, while the other functions as a touchscreen for infotainment. Between them, a narrow 5-inch touchscreen is dedicated to climate controls. Updates are made easy with over-the-air software updates, and Kia takes it a step further with Features on Demand (FoD). Owners can unlock additional features, such as increased torque or unique exterior accent lighting patterns, through the infotainment screen. Kia also plans to incorporate optional lidar sensors in the GT-Line models for hands-free highway driving.
Overall, the 2024 Kia EV9 impresses with its performance, practicality, and technological features. With its combination of successful elements from the Telluride and EV6, the EV9 stands as a strong contender and Ideal for Cambodia’s Growing EV market.