Summary
The 2025 Kia EV9 is a flagship all-electric midsize SUV that exemplifies Kia’s strategic push into sustainable mobility, combining advanced technology, spacious design, and competitive performance. Built on Hyundai Motor Group’s Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the EV9 features Nickel Cobalt Manganese (NCM) lithium-ion polymer batteries with capacities ranging from approximately 77 to nearly 100 kWh, enabling driving ranges up to 561 kilometers (ARAI MIDC-Full) on a single charge. With multiple trims—including Light, Light Long Range, Wind, Land, and GT-Line—the EV9 caters to a variety of consumer needs, offering configurations from efficient rear-wheel drive to powerful all-wheel drive setups.
Notable for its rapid charging capabilities, the EV9 supports 800-volt architecture with DC fast charging up to 240 kW, allowing an 18-minute charge from 10 to 80%, and efficient home AC charging with an 87.4% grid-to-battery conversion rate. Safety innovations include a patented B-pillar connection and specially engineered battery housing designed to disperse crash energy effectively, emphasizing occupant protection. The interior features sustainable materials, replacing traditional leather with bio-based and recycled components as part of Kia’s broader environmental strategy, which also includes battery recycling partnerships and a commitment to carbon neutrality throughout the vehicle’s lifecycle.
The EV9’s market reception highlights its balance of family-friendly features, eco-conscious design, and driving performance. While some critiques focus on the base model’s limited range and power, especially under towing conditions, the overall consensus praises the EV9’s spaciousness, technology integration, and competitive pricing, starting at around $54,900. Kia supports its battery packs with an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty guaranteeing at least 70% capacity retention, and continues to invest in next-generation battery technologies, including lithium iron phosphate (LFP) and solid-state batteries planned for release in 2025 and 2030 respectively.
Controversy has arisen regarding the indefinite postponement of the high-performance GT trim, initially announced with an estimated 576 horsepower output, raising questions about Kia’s timeline for expanding the EV9 lineup. Nevertheless, the EV9 remains a compelling entrant in the growing electric SUV segment, positioned to compete with rivals by offering versatility, sustainability, and cutting-edge electric vehicle technologies.
Overview
The 2025 Kia EV9 is a groundbreaking electric SUV that exemplifies Kia’s commitment to sustainability, advanced technology, and high performance. Built on the E-GMP platform, the EV9 utilizes Nickel Cobalt Manganese (NCM) lithium-ion polymer batteries supplied by SK Innovation, offering battery capacities ranging from 77 to nearly 100 kWh across various trims. This battery chemistry balances range and performance, allowing the EV9 to achieve an impressive driving range of up to 561 kilometers (ARAI MIDC-Full) on a single charge, with a maximum power output of 384.23 PS. Charging capabilities stand out with fast DC charging delivering 240 kW, enabling a rapid 10-80% charge in approximately 18 minutes, while home AC charging demonstrates an efficient 87.4% grid-to-battery output conversion. The vehicle also incorporates a patented B-pillar connection structure and specially designed battery housing that maximize occupant protection by effectively dispersing energy during impacts, emphasizing safety alongside innovation.
As part of Kia’s sustainability strategy, the EV9 marks a shift toward eco-friendly materials by phasing out leather, incorporating bio-based materials, and integrating ten essential sustainable components in its design. The company is also actively involved in battery recycling initiatives, partnering with firms like Eva Cycle and Ecopro to reclaim raw materials and produce cathode components from used batteries, thereby supporting a circular economy in EV production. With a diverse range of trims and features accessible through Car and Driver’s Comparison Tool, potential buyers can easily evaluate the EV9’s specifications, options, and pricing to select the model that best fits their needs. Kia backs its battery packs with an 8-year or 100,000-mile warranty guaranteeing at least 70% capacity retention, while advancing next-generation battery technologies, including proprietary LFP and solid-state batteries aimed for release by 2025 and 2030 respectively.
Trim Options
The 2025 Kia EV9 is offered in multiple trim levels designed to suit a variety of lifestyles and driving preferences, each providing distinct features and performance characteristics. The core lineup includes the base model, the Light Long Range, and the Wind trim, with a higher-performing GT trim rumored to be introduced in the future.
The Light Long Range trim builds upon the base model by featuring a larger-capacity battery, which extends the driving range, though it delivers slightly less power with a single-motor rear-wheel-drive setup generating 201 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Notably, this trim now comes standard with a sunroof, and its available exterior colors have been updated to include Glacial White Pearl and Ebony Black, replacing previous options like Ivory Silver Gloss and Ocean Blue Matte.
The Wind trim enhances the EV9 with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, combining power from both front and rear wheels to produce a total output of 379 horsepower. It offers additional premium features such as a digital rearview mirror that enables rear visibility even when the cargo area is fully loaded, as well as a surround-view camera system that provides a top-down perspective to assist in tight parking situations.
The top-spec GT-Line trim, although not the rumored GT model, features higher performance but sacrifices some range, with an estimated EPA range of 270 miles per charge. Real-world testing at highway speeds showed the GT-Line driving approximately 240 miles on a single charge. All EV9 models benefit from Kia’s advanced 800-volt electrical architecture, facilitating rapid battery replenishment through DC fast charging.
Although a new GT trim with a potential output of up to 576 horsepower was initially announced for 2026, its release has since been postponed indefinitely by Kia. The existing trims provide a balanced range of options, from efficient long-range capability to enhanced power and luxury features, catering to diverse customer needs.
Driving Range
The 2025 Kia EV9 offers varying driving ranges depending on the trim and drivetrain configuration, with EPA-estimated ranges reflecting real-world capabilities. The Light Long Range rear-wheel-drive (RWD) model features the largest battery pack and achieves the highest EPA-rated range of up to 304 miles on a full charge. Meanwhile, the all-wheel-drive (AWD) versions, including the Wind e-AWD and Land e-AWD trims, are rated for approximately 280 miles per charge.
Choosing the top-tier GT-Line trim results in a slightly reduced estimated range of 270 miles, attributed to its performance enhancements and added equipment. During highway testing at 75 mph, the EV9 GT-Line managed to cover 240 miles, which is slightly below its EPA estimate but indicative of real-world conditions. It is important to note that actual driving range will vary depending on several factors such as driving habits, road conditions, weather, vehicle maintenance, and battery age.
The EV9 utilizes Kia’s 800-volt electrical architecture, enabling rapid DC fast charging to quickly replenish the battery and support long-distance travel. The larger battery packs in the Long Range and AWD models use 99.8 kWh capacity cells, while the base Light model comes with a smaller 76.1 kWh pack that delivers around 230 miles of range.
Charging Capabilities
The 2025 Kia EV9 offers impressive charging capabilities, combining efficient home AC charging with fast DC charging performance. At home, the EV9 achieves a grid-to-battery-output efficiency of 87.4%, ensuring that AC charging is both adequate and effective for everyday use. For faster energy replenishment, the EV9 supports rapid DC charging, which significantly reduces downtime and enhances convenience for long-distance travel.
Battery management strategies further optimize charging. It is recommended to charge the EV9 battery up to 80% during daily use to reduce stress on the battery cells and preserve long-term capacity, as the final 20% of charge occurs at a slower rate, making a partial charge more time-efficient. Unlike some other battery chemistries, such as lithium iron phosphate (LFP), which require regular full cycles for optimal calibration, the Kia EV9 utilizes lithium-ion polymer batteries with a Nickel Cobalt Manganese (NCM) cathode chemistry supplied by SK Innovation, supporting this partial charge approach.
In addition to its charging capabilities, the EV9 is equipped with a vehicle-to-load (V2L) port, allowing it to supply electricity to external devices such as portable camping gear or even other electric vehicles, further enhancing its utility and versatility.
Pricing Details
The 2025 Kia EV9 has a starting manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $54,900 for the lowest model trim. This price reflects the base configuration and excludes additional costs such as destination and handling charges, taxes, title, license fees, optional equipment, and dealer charges. The MSRP can vary based on selected trims, optional features, and dealer pricing strategies. Potential buyers are encouraged to consult the “Build and Price” section for detailed pricing of specific model configurations. Kia America, Inc. retains the right to modify vehicle availability, pricing, and other specifications at any time, which may impact the final purchase price.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
Kia is actively addressing the environmental impact of its vehicles and manufacturing processes through comprehensive sustainability initiatives. The company conducts life cycle assessments (LCA) to evaluate both direct and indirect carbon emissions throughout the entire vehicle life span, including raw material extraction, component fabrication, assembly, operation, maintenance, disposal, and transportation. This holistic approach enables Kia to identify key areas for improvement and develop targeted carbon reduction strategies.
In its pursuit of carbon neutrality, Kia is transforming its manufacturing environment to be more eco-friendly by integrating renewable energy sources such as self-developed solar power. Additionally, the company plans to transition its logistics operations to eco-friendly transportation methods over the mid- to long-term and enhance the recycling rate of end-of-life vehicles. The use of sustainable materials is also emphasized in Kia’s electric vehicle lineup: the EV6 incorporates recycled plastics and materials derived from flaxseed extract, while the forthcoming 2023 EV9 model will feature eco-friendly and recycled components including waste fishing nets, recycled plastics, and vegan leather.
Battery recycling is another critical component of Kia’s sustainability efforts. The company collaborates with partners to establish closed-loop recycling systems where used EV batteries are dismantled and processed into raw materials for new cathode production. This recycling approach not only reduces the demand for new mining activities but also helps stabilize battery costs and supports the production of more efficient future electric vehicles.
Market Reception
The 2025 Kia EV9 has garnered significant attention for its combination of advanced electric performance, spacious seating for up to seven passengers, and a comprehensive suite of cutting-edge technologies. Reviewers and automotive experts have praised Kia for effectively leveraging the design and comfort insights gained from the Telluride SUV to create an all-electric SUV that meets both family needs and environmental considerations.
While the base trim’s limited range and single-motor configuration have been noted as drawbacks, especially under towing conditions which can severely reduce driving range, the overall reception highlights the EV9’s impressive balance of power, utility, and eco-friendly attributes. Kia’s commitment to sustainability is further demonstrated by ongoing initiatives like life cycle assessments and battery service platforms aimed at enhancing battery residual value and recycling feasibility, which adds to the vehicle’s appeal in the green vehicle market.
Additionally, car-buying resources such as Car and Driver’s Comparison Tool provide consumers with rigorous data to help differentiate the EV9 trims in terms of features, specifications, pricing, and performance, thereby simplifying the purchase decision and reinforcing confidence in the EV9’s market position. Collectively, these factors have positioned the 2025 Kia EV9 as a strong contender in the growing electric SUV segment, appealing to both environmentally conscious drivers and families seeking advanced, reliable transportation options.
Competitors and Market Position
The 2025 Kia EV9 positions itself as a competitive all-electric three-row midsize SUV in the growing electric vehicle (EV) market. With multiple trim levels—Light, Light Long Range, Wind, Land, and GT-Line—the EV9 offers a range of powertrain configurations and features tailored to diverse consumer needs, distinguishing itself from rivals through versatility and driving experience.
In terms of driving range, the EV9 provides an estimated 280 miles on a full charge for certain trims, which is competitive among large electric SUVs. Its availability of all-wheel drive enhances traction and stability, particularly appealing in regions with challenging weather conditions such as rain or snow. Despite its size and electricity consumption, the EV9 scores highly in driving experience assessments, indicating strong performance and ride quality relative to competitors.
Kia’s approach with the EV9 focuses on balancing power, range, and comfort across various trims, targeting buyers who seek a spacious, family-oriented electric SUV without compromising on advanced features or driving dynamics. This positions the EV9 as a compelling alternative to other midsize electric SUVs from manufacturers aiming to capture market share in the expanding EV segment.
Kia America maintains the flexibility to update specifications, pricing, and available features for the EV9, allowing the model to adapt quickly to market demands and competitive pressures. The combination of diverse trim options, robust range, and an emphasis on driving experience underpins the EV9’s strategy to carve out a strong market presence in the competitive landscape of electric SUVs.
Future Updates and Plans
Kia is actively working on enhancing the performance and sustainability of its electric vehicle (EV) batteries. Future improvements aim to deliver longer-lasting batteries with faster charging capabilities, more affordable replacement options, and enhanced recycling programs to minimize environmental impact. In collaboration with partners such as Eva Cycle and Ecopro, Kia has initiated pilot projects focused on dismantling discarded EV batteries to recover valuable materials. Eva Cycle handles the dismantling process to produce black powder, while Ecopro extracts raw materials used in manufacturing new cathode components, thereby supporting a circular economy in battery production.
These developments reflect Kia’s commitment to not only advancing EV technology but also addressing the lifecycle challenges of EV batteries. By improving battery durability and recycling methods, Kia aims to reduce waste and promote more sustainable electric mobility in the coming years.
The content is provided by Harper Eastwood, Front Signals
