Kia’s new all-electric 3-row SUV could be a game changer. Which version is right for you?
As the first three-row EV SUV from a mainstream automaker, the 2024 Kia EV9 could make a real impact among family-oriented buyers. Kia isn’t shy about referring to the EV9 as an all-electric equivalent to the acclaimed Telluride. Although the Telluride is less expensive, the EV9 comes with more tech and different features—not to mention better looks and driving dynamics. Here’s what comes on every trim level of the 2024 Kia EV9. Note that local and federal incentives could lower the MSRPs listed here.
2024 Kia EV9 Light Standard Range RWD
The entry-level EV9 trim is equipped with a 76.1-kWh battery. This battery powers a single rear motor, producing 215 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Although an MSRP of slightly more than $56,500 makes it the least expensive EV9 model, the EPA-rated electric driving range of 230 miles is the shortest in the lineup, even with its 19-inch wheels.
The EV9 Light isn’t lacking in standard features. Heated and ventilated front seats come with three USB-C ports and a wireless charging pad between them. In this seven-seat EV9, the three-across second-row bench seat and two-place third row feature cupholders and USB-C charge ports. Kia’s SynTex leatherette is used as upholstery. Like every EV9, the Light trim has dual 12.3-inch digital displays, with a small touchscreen between those for HVAC controls. Built-in navigation is standard, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Phone-as-key functionality makes getting in a little easier, as do the pop-out door handles and power rear liftgate.
Moreover, the Light trim comes with numerous driver assist and active safety features. Among those are front and rear automatic emergency braking, intersection collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and front, rear, and side cross-traffic alert.
2024 Kia EV9 Light Long Range RWD
As implied by its name, the Light Long Range’s key feature is its increased all-electric driving range. Like every EV9 trim level above it, the Light Long Range has a 99.8-kWh battery, which extends range to 304 miles. It also has a single rear motor, although here it produces 201 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Consequently, this battery’s charging capacity tops out at 210 kW—fast, but not quite as fast as the smaller battery’s 239 kW charging cap. Pricing for the EV9 Light Long Range starts at slightly under $61,000.
A few other details differentiate the EV9 Light Long Range from the Light Standard Range. It gets second-row captain’s chairs, increasing passenger comfort but reducing seating capacity to six. Like the Light Standard Range, it has an auto-dimming rearview mirror but gains a built-in garage door transponder.
2024 Kia EV9 Wind AWD
Say this EV9 trim level’s name like the synonym for breeze, not like what you do on some fancy wristwatches. The most important feature of the EV9 Wind is that it has dual-motor AWD for increased traction and performance. Powertrain output rises to 379 hp and 443 lb-ft, with a torque increase to 516 lb-ft available as an over-the-air update (yes, you can pay to download more torque to the EV9). Range is 280 miles, and MSRP rises to about $65,500.
Other upgrades come on the EV9 Wind trim. Ground clearance measures 7.8 inches, an 0.8-inch increase, and roof rails can accommodate aftermarket add-ons. Two sunroofs are positioned above the seven-passenger seating arrangement. Heat pump technology provides efficient climate control with less impact on driving range. A heated steering wheel is also added.
2024 Kia EV9 Land AWD
A slew of premium features comes on the EV9 Land, starting at about $71,500 and boasting 280 miles of range. Funky triangle-styled 20-inch wheels set it apart. Upgraded LED headlights give it a different look; customizable grille light patterns can be downloaded for personalized style.
The six-seat interior is covered in leatherette, featuring an upscale stitching pattern. Additionally, the driver’s seat has “Relaxation Mode” with an extending leg rest, ideal for kicking back while charging. The steering wheel gains power adjustability. For the second row, a nifty pop-out bin is integrated behind the center console.
In terms of tech, a 14-speaker Meridian audio system and adjustable multi-color ambient lighting help set a vibe for those aboard. The EV9 Land features a camera-based digital rearview mirror for an unobstructed view behind. Blind-spot monitoring cameras and a 360-degree camera system make it even easier to see around the vehicle, while rear auto-braking further helps avoid parking dings.
2024 Kia EV9 GT-Line AWD
The range-topping 2024 EV9 trim looks a bit more sporty, as it gains a unique front fascia design, 21-inch wheels, and black exterior trim. Nevertheless, it’s not all for show. As the only trim standard equipped with the 516 lb-ft torque upgrade, the GT-Line has a bit more power, too. However, range drops to 270 miles. Is that worth its roughly $75,500 MSRP?
Other features on the EV9 GT-Line sweeten the deal. Self-leveling rear suspension keeps things stable when the vehicle is loaded. The driver gets a head-up display, and the front passenger seat gains an extending leg cushion. A microsuede headliner adds an upscale impression. Kia’s Remote Smart Parking Assist system can automatically parallel park the vehicle.
2024 Kia EV9 X-Pro?
To prevent Rivian from dominating the off-road electric SUV segment, Kia could develop a rugged version of the EV9. The automaker’s X-Pro trim level—currently seen on the Sportage, Sorento, and Telluride—adds hardware such as all-terrain tires and lifted suspension, while electronic controls are tuned for tough terrain. Expect similar features on a potential EV9 X-Pro, which would likely trade off range for its off-road kit.
2024 Kia EV9 Trim Levels
- 2024 Kia EV9 Light Standard Range RWD: $56,395
- 2024 Kia EV9 Light Long Range RWD: $60,695
- 2024 Kia EV9 Wind AWD: $65,395
- 2024 Kia EV9 Land AWD: $71,395
- 2024 Kia EV9 GT-Line AWD: $75,395
