autoevolution
 

KIA EV9 Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

Generations: 1
First production year: 2023
Body style: SUV (Sports Utility Vehicle)
KIA EV9 photo gallery

Kia unveiled the EV9 SUV in the Spring of 2023, thus shocking its competitors with the seven-seat vehicle and the MPV-like interior versatility.

The Korean automaker was no longer that automaker that built econoboxes with cheap interiors and bland designs. After it started to invest more in its design department, and with the help from its parent company, Hyundai, it became a very attractive automaker, especially thanks to its electric vehicles. As a result, after launching the EV6, it dared more and created the EV9 as an alternative for minivans and crossovers alike.

At first sight, the car's proportions resembled the ones from the Soul. Despite the fact that it was an electric vehicle, it sported a conventional look with an engine compartment installed at the front. The front fascia's design sported vertical, angular-shaped slim daytime running lights that flanked the outer sides of the LED headlights. There was no main grille since that wasn't needed, but just a flat panel that sported a slim black upper trim and a lower gap above the bumper. Still, the electronics needed some cooling, so the carmaker installed a lower grille in the apron. From its profile, the angular shapes of the bodywork were emphasized by the flared wheel arches, trying to mimic the ruggedness of an offroader.

Kia installed a minimalist interior with a flat dashboard where it placed two 12.3" displays, one for the instrument panel and the other for the infotainment system. The latter was also a touchscreen. Still, there were some physical buttons installed for the HVAC unit. Apart from the front bucket seats, the automaker placed a pair of captain seats on the second row, which could revolve into a rearward-facing position, so their occupants sit face to face with those seated on the third row.

full description and technical specifications