2026 Kia EV9: A Powerful and Family-Friendly Electric SUV

2026 Kia EV9: Marking its third year of production, the 2026 Kia EV9 continues to dominate the mid-size electric SUV market with its family-friendly three-row design. Boasting a stylish exterior, a comfortable and functional interior, and an impressive range of up to 304 miles, this all-electric SUV remains a compelling option. Available in both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations, it supports DC fast-charging speeds of up to 230 kW and can tow up to 5,000 pounds. A key update for 2026 is the inclusion of the NACS (North American Charging Standard) port, which comes with an adapter for CCS-style chargers. Additionally, the all-new EV9 GT debuts, featuring a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, an adaptive suspension, and a powerful 501-horsepower output.

2026 Kia EV9: What’s New for 2026?

While the standard EV9 lineup remains largely unchanged, the biggest update is the arrival of the high-performance EV9 GT. This model comes equipped with dual motors, upgraded brakes, an adaptive suspension, and exclusive design enhancements, making it the ultimate performance-oriented three-row EV SUV.

2026 Kia EV9 Pricing and Trim Levels

Pricing for the 2026 Kia EV9 is expected to start at approximately $57,000 and go up to $80,000, depending on the trim and optional features.

• Light RWD – $57,000 (est.)
• Light Long Range RWD – $62,000 (est.)
• Wind e-AWD (Recommended Trim) – $66,000 (est.)
• Land e-AWD – $72,000 (est.)
• GT-Line e-AWD – $76,000 (est.)
• GT – $80,000 (est.)

For the best value, the Wind e-AWD trim stands out, offering a more powerful 379-hp all-wheel-drive system along with premium features such as second-row captain’s chairs, heated front seats and steering wheel, a heat pump for climate control, and advanced driver-assistance technology. For those seeking top-tier performance, the new EV9 GT delivers exhilarating power and a refined driving experience.

2026 Kia EV9: EV Motor, Power, and Performance

The 2026 Kia EV9 offers multiple powertrain options:

• Light RWD Trim – A single rear-mounted electric motor producing 215 horsepower.
• Light Long Range RWD – Uses a larger battery, but power output decreases to 201 horsepower.
• All-Wheel-Drive Models – Feature a dual-motor setup delivering 379 horsepower, with an optional Boost mode for quicker acceleration.
• High-Performance GT Model – Expected to generate 501 horsepower, an increase of 122 hp over the GT-Line. It also features an electronic limited-slip differential, enhancing traction and cornering performance.

On the road, the EV9 delivers a smooth, comfortable ride, while the GT model’s adaptive suspension is designed to maintain that comfort while providing sharper responses in dynamic driving situations.

2026 Kia EV9: 0–60 MPH Acceleration

Kia estimates the EV9 GT will accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds. However, based on previous testing, it could potentially achieve high 3-second times, making it one of the quickest three-row electric SUVs available.

2026 Kia EV9: Range, Charging, and Battery Performance

The 2026 Kia EV9 offers two battery options:

• 76.1-kWh battery (Light RWD) – 230-mile range (EPA estimate).
• 99.8-kWh battery (Light Long Range and AWD models) – Up to 304 miles per charge.

EPA estimates for the high-performance EV9 GT haven’t been released yet, but it’s expected to feature the larger 99.8-kWh battery. Fast-charging capabilities allow the EV9 to regain 100 miles of range in just 13 minutes at a peak DC fast-charging speed of 230 kW.

2026 Kia EV9: Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe

The EPA estimates the 2026 Kia EV9 achieves between 80 and 89 MPGe, depending on the drivetrain:

• Light RWD (most efficient) – 89 MPGe.
• GT-Line e-AWD (least efficient) – 80 MPGe.

EPA ratings for the EV9 GT haven’t been confirmed yet, but it’s expected to fall in the low MPGe range due to its performance-oriented tuning.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo: A Look Inside the 2026 Kia EV9

The 2026 Kia EV9 offers a spacious and luxurious interior, available in both six- and seven-passenger configurations. Buyers can choose between captain’s chairs or a bench seat in the second row, while the third row features power-folding seats on higher trims. The cabin exudes a premium feel, with soft synthetic leather upholstery, mesh headrests, and a solid build quality that enhances its refined appeal.

The second-row captain’s chairs offer exceptional comfort, featuring heating, ventilation, and massage functions, ensuring a first-class experience for passengers. The third-row seats provide ample space for adults, although some legroom adjustments may be required from second-row occupants for added comfort. The new EV9 GT trim introduces bolstered sport seats with faux-suede inserts, an exclusive GT steering wheel, and unique dashboard trim. It also sports a dark gray and black interior theme with neon green accents, reminiscent of the EV6 GT.

For cargo capacity, the EV9 offers 20 cubic feet of space behind the third row—nearly as much as the Kia Telluride. When the second and third rows are folded flat, the cargo volume expands to 82 cubic feet, making it highly versatile for families and long road trips. In real-world tests, the EV9 comfortably stored five carry-on bags behind the third row and 17 with it stowed.

Infotainment and Connectivity: Advanced Tech for a Seamless Drive

Inside the 2026 Kia EV9, drivers will find dual 12.3-inch screens—one for the digital gauge cluster and another for infotainment—with an additional HVAC display nestled in between. Exclusive to the EV9 GT trim, the instrument cluster features GT-specific graphics and an ambient lighting scheme.

Kia has minimized the number of physical buttons in the cabin, retaining only essential HVAC controls and a volume knob. The dashboard houses touch-sensitive controls, providing a streamlined and modern interface. The infotainment system is highly intuitive, featuring logically arranged menus, quick response times, and high-resolution graphics. However, the placement of the on-screen climate controls behind the steering wheel may be inconvenient to adjust while driving. Fortunately, once set, frequent readjustments are rarely needed.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features: Enhanced Protection on the Road

The 2026 Kia EV9 comes equipped with an impressive suite of standard driver-assistance features, ensuring a secure driving experience. Among the highlights are:

• Automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
• Lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
• Adaptive cruise control with a hands-free driving mode

Kia also offers a more advanced hands-free driving mode, but this feature is exclusive to the EV9 GT-Line. For detailed safety ratings and crash-test results, prospective buyers can refer to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage: Industry-Leading Protectio

Kia remains a leader in warranty offerings, providing one of the best coverage plans in the industry. However, unlike its sibling brand Hyundai, Kia does not include complimentary scheduled maintenance.

• Limited warranty: Covers 5 years or 60,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty: Covers 10 years or 100,000 miles
• No complimentary scheduled maintenance

Performance and Specifications: Power Meets Efficiency

The 2026 Kia EV9 is a powerful, all-electric SUV with impressive performance specs. Below is a breakdown of its key specifications:

• Vehicle Type: Front- and rear-motor, all-wheel-drive, 6-passenger, 4-door SUV
• Base Price: Estimated $75,395
• As Tested Price: Estimated $77,500

Powertrain

• Front Motor: Permanent-magnet synchronous AC, 189 hp, 258 lb-ft torque
• Rear Motor: Permanent-magnet synchronous AC, 189 hp, 258 lb-ft torque
• Combined Power Output: 379 hp
• Combined Torque: 516 lb-ft
• Battery Pack: Liquid-cooled lithium-ion, 99.8 kWh
• Onboard Charger: 10.9 kW
• Peak DC Fast-Charge Rate: 215 kW

Chassis & Dimensions

• Suspension (Front/Rear): Struts / Multilink
• Brakes (Front/Rear): 14.2-inch vented disc / 13.6-inch vented disc
• Tires: Hankook Ion Evo AS SUV, 285/45R-21 113V M+S K
• Wheelbase: 122.0 inches
• Length: 197.4 inches
• Width: 77.9 inches
• Height: 70.1 inches
• Curb Weight: 5,839 pounds

Performance and Efficiency: Real-World Testing

Acceleration and Speed

• 0-60 mph: 4.5 seconds
• 0-100 mph: 13.0 seconds
• Quarter-Mile Time: 13.3 seconds @ 101 mph
• Top Speed: 126 mph (governor limited)

Braking and Handling

• 70-0 mph braking distance: 184 feet
• 100-0 mph braking distance: 365 feet
• 300-ft Skidpad Grip: 0.87 g

Fuel Economy and Charging Performance

The EPA-rated efficiency of the 2026 Kia EV9 varies by trim:

• Observed Efficiency: 79 MPGe
• 75-mph Highway Driving: 76 MPGe
• 75-mph Highway Range: 240 miles
• Average DC Fast-Charge Rate (10-90%): 139 kW
• DC Fast-Charge Time (10-90%): 37 minutes

Conclusion: A Well-Rounded Electric SUV

The 2026 Kia EV9 strikes a perfect balance between luxury, technology, safety, and performance. With spacious seating, cutting-edge infotainment, and advanced driver-assistance features, it stands out as one of the best three-row electric SUVs on the market. Its long-range battery, fast-charging capabilities, and high-performance GT variant make it a compelling option for families and EV enthusiasts alike.