LOOKS 

In terms of design, the Kia team has delivered a strong package with the EV9. Its bold design draws from the classy and sleek styling ethos across Kia’s lineup, with some unique features added on the GT-Line trim. It’s upscale and eye-catching, but not overly gaudy in design.

I loved the unique digital light grille setup, attractive 21-inch wheels, and the dual moonroof setup. The EV9’s recessed (hidden) door handles also pop out when you approach the vehicle.

Moving inside, you’ll find a truly roomy interior. Third row seating is manageable for an adult if that’s the only option, but I would recommend leaving it for the kids when possible. The other two rows will be supremely comfortable for passengers of any age.

Charging outlets are included throughout the vehicle, so regardless of where you are sitting among the three rows, your electronic devices can be kept in action. Seating numbers vary, either 6 or 7 total seats, depending on whether you choose Captain’s Chairs in the middle row, or opt for a bench.

Overall cargo space available, with rear rows down, maxes out at 81.7 cubic feet, a respectable number. There are 43.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and just 20.2 cubic feet with all rows up.

Materials used throughout the EV9 are of high quality (including synthetic leather seating across all trims), and the available massaging feature offers maximum comfort for the driver.

Speaking of comfort, heated and ventilated seats are offered in both the first and second row. Adjusting seats to access each row is a breeze, and families can use the LATCH system for child seats.

HOW’S THE RIDE?

The 2026 Kia EV9 I tested was a dual-motor model featuring AWD and a 99.8 kWh lithium Ion high-voltage battery. The EV9 offers both RWD and AWD options, and features an available self-leveling rear suspension.

In terms of horsepower and torque, I tested a more powerful version — the GT-Line trim — which offered 379 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque (with “Boost” mode). The base model features 215 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Towing capacity on the EV9 maxes out at 5,000 pounds.

So how is the driving experience in the EV9? Quite simply, it’s tremendous — an experience that matches or exceeds its three-row EV rivals.

The EV9 offers an exhilarating straight line experience (with 0-to-60 times in the mid 4-second range), and also handles extremely well on twisty roads considering its larger size.

Braking is responsive, and the EV9 delivers an extremely smooth and quiet ride at all times. The overall driving experience is far beyond what you would expect from an EV, especially one this large.

Drive modes can be adjusted based on circumstances, including: Eco, Normal, Sport, and a customizable My Drive mode. One-pedal driving is also possible in the EV9, with braking initiated by lifting off the accelerator.

In a nutshell, the EV9 is super quiet, comfortable and fast, meaning it’s both fun and functional for families.


TECHNOLOGY, SAFETY

Tech setup in the 2026 Kia EV9 is focused around a customizable, 12.3-inch center screen; There is also a large, 12.3-inch digital gauge display in front of the driver.

Both touchscreen and voice commands in the EV9 work well and are easy to master. It’s also nice to see a physical dial included for volume, plus some physical controls for climate. These are a nice addition for people who don't want everything touch-controlled.

The screens have a sleek look — with both large screens sharing one long pane of glass on the dashboard.

The EV9 features Navigation, satellite radio with three-month free trial, a sharp-sounding Meridian Premium Audio System, wireless phone charging, and access to Kia Connect phone controls. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are also compatible for phone mirroring.

Safety is a key focus on the EV9, which has pretty much all your bases covered so you and your family are safe.

I enjoyed using the limited self-driving system (called Highway Driving Assist), which keeps the EV9 centered in your lane and slows down when needed. Backup cameras are also displayed large and clear in the center screen.

Other safety features include:
— Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
— Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
— Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
— Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
— Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist
— Safe Exit Assist
— Parking Distance Warning
— Blind-Spot View Monitor
— Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control

You also get a full array of air bags throughout the vehicle, and some versions feature a head-up display as well.

RANGE, CHARGING

So how far can you get on the EV9’s battery? And how is the charging experience?
Let’s dive into the numbers.

The EV9 I tested featured an 82 MPGe rating (72 highway, 92 city). The highest rated EV9 trim comes in at 89 MPGe.

In terms of range, the EV9 tops out at 304 miles on the most efficient trim, with the low end at 230 miles. The GT-Line model I tested came in at 270 miles.

These are solid range numbers, though you can get a bit further on some of the competitor EV offerings in the three-row segment (such as Ioniq 9 and Rivian R1S).

The good news is that the EV9 is quite impressive with charging times, so even if you have to charge in public you won’t be waiting long.

I always recommend EV buyers install a Level 2 home charger for convenience and cost savings, but charging the EV9 on the road won’t be a hassle.

Due to the vehicle’s charging architecture, fast-charging is estimated to add 100 miles to your range in less than 15 minutes, and you can go from 10 percent to 80 percent charge level as quickly as 24 minutes at a proper 350kW fast-charging station.

Also of note and new for this model year, 2026 Kia EV9 owners can also charge their vehicle at Tesla superchargers.

PRICE

The 2026 Kia EV9 I tested (a GT-Line trim level) was priced just under $77,000; and the base price starts around $55K.

Trim levels include Light RWD, Light Long Range RWD, Wind AWD, Land AWD, and GT-Line AWD.

If AWD is a priority, you’ll start in the mid-$60K range with the Wind model. This trim may be a good mid-point for buyers to settle on.

Compared to main rivals like the Hyundai Ioniq 9, Rivian R1S and Volvo EX90, the EV9 is close in price to its corporate cousin the Ioniq 9, and much more affordable than the R1S and the EX90.

Beyond that, there are few options in this emerging category of the SUV landscape.

And of course, you get Kia’s excellent warranty coverage, which provides:
— 10 Year/100,000 Mile Limited Powertrain Warranty
— 10 Year/100.000 Mile Limited Battery Warranty
— 5 Year/60.000 Mile Limited Basic Warranty
— 5 Year/60.000 Mile Roadside Assistance

BOTTOM LINE

Among three-row EVs, the 2026 Kia EV9 is perhaps the most complete package you will find — delivering solid range, excellent power, sharp looks and tech excellence.

Anyone who is making the leap to electric and want a large, roomy and powerful option would be wise to consider taking the EV9 home.

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Matt Myftiu’s past reviews can all be seen online at autotechreviews.com. Follow AutoTechReviews on Instagram at @Autotechreviews or on TikTok at @AutoTechReviews.