The Kia EV9 stands as a bold testament to Kia’s ambitious push into the electric vehicle (EV) market, combining futuristic design, cutting-edge technology, and practicality in a three-row SUV package. Launched globally in 2023 and making its way to India in October 2024, the EV9 is Kia’s flagship electric offering, designed to cater to families and EV enthusiasts alike. Built on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP)—the same architecture underpinning the acclaimed Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5—the EV9 brings a spacious interior, impressive range, and ultra-fast charging capabilities to the table. With its striking Digital Tiger Face design, advanced driver assistance systems, and a focus on sustainability, the EV9 is positioned as a game-changer in the premium electric SUV segment.
This all-electric SUV isn’t just about eco-friendly driving; it’s a statement of luxury, performance, and versatility. Available in a single, fully loaded GT-Line AWD variant in India, the EV9 promises a blend of power, comfort, and safety that rivals luxury offerings from brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz, but at a more accessible price point. Whether you’re navigating bustling metro cities or embarking on long road trips, the Kia EV9 aims to deliver an unparalleled experience. In this detailed product overview, we’ll explore its technical specifications, variants, pricing across major Indian metro cities, and how it stacks up against its competitors.
Technical Specifications
The Kia EV9 is equipped with advanced technology and robust engineering, making it a standout in the electric SUV category. Below is a comprehensive table summarizing its technical specifications, sourced from reliable automotive platforms like CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale, verified as of March 17, 2025.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | Dual Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors (AWD) |
| Power Output | 384 PS (282.6 kW) / 379 bhp |
| Torque | 700 Nm |
| Battery Capacity | 99.8 kWh |
| Range (ARAI) | 561 km |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| Charging Time (DC Fast) | 24 minutes (10% to 80% with 350 kW charger) |
| Charging Time (AC) | Approx. 9-10 hours with 11 kW onboard charger |
| Top Speed | 200 kmph |
| 0-100 kmph | 5.3 seconds |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 5015 mm x 1980 mm x 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase | 3100 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 198 mm |
| Seating Capacity | 6 (Captain seats in 2nd row) |
| Boot Space | 333 liters (behind 3rd row); 2318 liters (with 2nd & 3rd rows folded) |
| Frunk Space | 52 liters |
| Tyre Size | 275/50 R20 (20-inch alloy wheels) |
| Suspension (Front/Rear) | MacPherson Strut / Multi-Link |
| Brakes (Front/Rear) | Ventilated Disc / Ventilated Disc |
| Kerb Weight | Approx. 2625 kg |
Variants
Currently, the Kia EV9 is offered in a single variant in India, designed to deliver a fully loaded experience right out of the gate. Below is a table detailing the variant available as of March 2025.
| Variant | Drivetrain | Battery | Power | Range | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GT-Line AWD | All-Wheel Drive | 99.8 kWh | 384 PS | 561 km | Dual sunroofs, Level 2 ADAS, 10 airbags, 12.3-inch dual screens, massage seats |
While global markets offer additional trims like the Light, Wind, and Land with rear-wheel-drive (RWD) or all-wheel-drive (AWD) options and varying battery sizes (76.1 kWh or 99.8 kWh), Kia has opted to bring only the top-spec GT-Line AWD to India. This decision reflects a strategy to position the EV9 as a premium offering, targeting buyers seeking luxury and performance in one package.
Price in Metro Cities
The Kia EV9’s pricing in India is introductory and ex-showroom, with on-road prices varying across metro cities due to differences in registration fees, road tax, and insurance costs. Below is a table showcasing the estimated on-road prices in major Indian metro cities as of March 2025, based on data from CarDekho and CarWale.
| City | Ex-Showroom Price (INR) | On-Road Price (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| New Delhi | 1.30 Crore | 1.36 Crore |
| Mumbai | 1.30 Crore | 1.38 Crore |
| Bangalore | 1.30 Crore | 1.37 Crore |
| Chennai | 1.30 Crore | 1.36 Crore |
| Kolkata | 1.30 Crore | 1.35 Crore |
Note: On-road prices include RTO charges, insurance, and additional fees, which may vary slightly based on dealership offers and state policies. Prices are approximate and subject to change.
About the Kia EV9
Design and Exterior
The Kia EV9 embodies the brand’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, merging bold, futuristic aesthetics with practical SUV proportions. Its front fascia features the iconic Digital Tiger Face, characterized by a sleek grille with animated Star Map LED DRLs and vertical LED headlamps. The squared-off wheel arches, gloss black cladding, and 20-inch alloy wheels enhance its muscular stance, while a rear spoiler with an LED high-mount stop lamp adds a sporty touch. Measuring over 5 meters in length, the EV9 commands a commanding road presence, making it a head-turner in urban and highway settings alike.
The EV9’s aerodynamic profile, despite its boxy silhouette, contributes to its efficiency, though it doesn’t match the slipperiness of sleeker EVs like the Tesla Model X. Available in five striking colors in India—Snow White Pearl, Panthera Metal, Pebble Gray, Aurora Black Pearl, and Ocean Blue—the EV9 offers customization options that appeal to diverse tastes. The flush door handles and aerodynamic roofline further refine its look, blending form and function seamlessly.
Interior and Comfort
Step inside the Kia EV9, and you’re greeted by a cabin that rivals luxury SUVs in both space and sophistication. The minimalist dashboard, finished in black with dual-tone white and black leatherette upholstery, exudes modernity. The highlight is the Trinity Panoramic Display, integrating two 12.3-inch screens (one for infotainment and one for the driver) with a 5.3-inch climate control display. Below this, touch-sensitive controls for climate and media settings maintain a clutter-free aesthetic.
The EV9’s six-seater configuration features captain seats in the second row, offering 8-way power adjustment and a massage function—a rarity in its segment. Dual sunroofs for the first and second rows elevate the sense of openness, while relaxation features with leg support for both rows transform long drives into a first-class experience. The third row, often a compromise in three-row SUVs, is genuinely usable for adults, thanks to the EV9’s generous 3100 mm wheelbase. Cargo space is equally impressive, with 333 liters behind the third row and up to 2318 liters with the rear rows folded, complemented by a 52-liter frunk for additional storage.
Performance and Powertrain
Under the hood—or rather, beneath the floor—the Kia EV9 packs a punch with its dual-motor AWD setup. Producing 384 PS and a staggering 700 Nm of torque, it accelerates from 0-100 kmph in just 5.3 seconds, a figure that rivals performance SUVs like the BMW iX. The 99.8 kWh battery delivers an ARAI-certified range of 561 km, making it suitable for both city commutes and extended journeys. Real-world range may hover around 450-500 km depending on driving conditions, temperature, and usage of features like climate control.
The EV9’s 800-volt architecture enables ultra-fast charging, juicing up from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes with a 350 kW DC fast charger—a feature that sets it apart from many competitors still reliant on slower 400-volt systems. For home charging, an 11 kW AC charger takes about 9-10 hours for a full charge. The EV9 also supports Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, allowing owners to power external devices, making it a practical companion for camping or emergencies.
Technology and Features
The EV9 is a tech lover’s dream, loaded with cutting-edge features that enhance convenience, safety, and connectivity. The Kia Connect 2.0 suite offers over 100 connected car features, including remote locking, diagnostics, and a digital key that can be shared via smartphone. The triple-screen setup is complemented by an 11-inch head-up display (HUD), projecting key driving information onto the windshield for a distraction-free experience.
Entertainment is elevated with a Meridian 14-speaker premium sound system, while comfort features like 3-zone automatic climate control, ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel cater to all occupants. The EV9 also boasts a digital inside rearview mirror (IRVM), using a rear camera feed to eliminate blind spots—a boon in heavy traffic.
Safety and ADAS
Safety is a cornerstone of the EV9’s appeal, with a 5-star crash safety rating from Euro NCAP and Australian NCAP. It comes equipped with 10 airbags, including front center and third-row passenger airbags, ensuring comprehensive protection. The Level 2 ADAS suite includes adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, forward collision avoidance, and a 360-degree camera, making it one of the safest EVs in its class. Additional features like hill start assist and an electronic limited-slip differential enhance stability and control.
Driving Experience
On the road, the Kia EV9 strikes a balance between comfort and capability. Its soft suspension soaks up bumps effectively, delivering a smooth ride on highways, though it lacks the air suspension found in rivals like the BMW iX, which could further refine its handling of sharp imperfections. The instant torque from the dual motors provides exhilarating acceleration, but the EV9’s hefty 2625 kg kerb weight and tall profile mean it’s not designed for aggressive cornering—body lean is noticeable in tight bends. For towing enthusiasts, the EV9 offers a 5000-pound towing capacity, bolstered by self-leveling rear suspension and a dedicated trailering mode.
Close Competitors
The Kia EV9 enters a niche but growing segment of three-row electric SUVs, facing competition from both luxury and mainstream brands. Here’s how it stacks up against its closest rivals:
BMW iX
The BMW iX is a premium electric SUV with a starting price of around ₹1.40 Crore (ex-showroom) in India. It offers a 105.2 kWh battery with a range of up to 635 km (WLTP) and dual motors producing 523 PS. While the iX boasts superior range and a more luxurious interior with air suspension, it’s a two-row SUV, lacking the EV9’s third-row seating. The iX’s higher price and focus on luxury over practicality make the EV9 a more family-friendly option.
Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV
Priced at approximately ₹1.39 Crore (ex-showroom), the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV offers a 90.6 kWh battery with a range of around 550 km (WLTP) and up to 408 PS of power. Like the iX, it’s a two-row SUV, but it excels in refinement and brand prestige. The EV9 counters with more seating, a lower price, and faster charging, appealing to buyers prioritizing utility over opulence.
Tesla Model X
The Tesla Model X, starting at around ₹2 Crore in India (if imported), is a direct competitor with its three-row seating and falcon-wing doors. With a 100 kWh battery and a range of up to 560 km (EPA), it matches the EV9’s practicality but offers superior performance (up to 670 PS in the Long Range variant). However, its steep price, limited service network in India, and unconventional design may deter some buyers, giving the EV9 an edge in value and accessibility.
Hyundai Ioniq 9
The recently unveiled Hyundai Ioniq 9, a sibling to the EV9, shares the E-GMP platform and offers similar three-row seating. Expected to launch in India in 2025 with a price around ₹1.20-1.30 Crore, it could feature a 99.8 kWh battery and a range close to 550 km. While specs are still emerging, its design and features may closely mirror the EV9, making it a strong contender. The EV9’s first-mover advantage and Kia’s aggressive pricing could keep it ahead initially.
Comparison Summary
The Kia EV9 stands out for its combination of three-row seating, competitive pricing, and robust feature set, undercutting luxury rivals like the BMW iX and Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV by ₹10-20 lakh while offering more practicality. Against the Tesla Model X, it’s a more affordable and serviceable option, though it lacks the Tesla’s raw performance. The upcoming Hyundai Ioniq 9 poses the closest threat, but the EV9’s established presence and brand loyalty in India give it a slight edge.
Final Thoughts!
The Kia EV9 is a trailblazer in the electric SUV space, blending the practicality of a three-row family hauler with the efficiency and innovation of an EV. Its bold design, spacious interior, and advanced technology make it a compelling choice for buyers in metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, where EV infrastructure is rapidly expanding. Priced at ₹1.30 Crore (ex-showroom), it offers luxury and performance at a fraction of the cost of competitors like the BMW iX or Tesla Model X, while its 561 km range and ultra-fast charging ensure it’s ready for both urban commutes and long-distance adventures.
For families seeking a sustainable yet versatile vehicle, the EV9 delivers on all fronts—comfort, safety, and cutting-edge features—without compromising on style or drivability. As Kia continues to refine its EV lineup, the EV9 sets a high bar, proving that electric mobility can be both premium and practical. Whether you’re drawn by its futuristic appeal or its value proposition, the Kia EV9 is poised to redefine expectations in the Indian EV market.
